Calai of Three Lakes

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## Union of Calai of Three Lakes

Calai of Three Lakes, often known as Calai, The Union of Calai, or The Union of Three Lakes, is a multinational confederation of fourteen nations and is the successor to Calai. It roughly matches the borders of The Old Western Empire. The Union is the largest nation in Delthoria by population. It also has the largest GDP of any nation on the moon. Work on Calai is spread across many pages, most of these can be found in the Calai category on the wiki. Calai is governed by The Pent.

Basic Statistics

## History

The founding of Calai of Three Lakes came in batches of unifications. The first was the founding of Calai, now considered the Cathcalairach. The leaders of The Pentarchy of Calai had a discussion which led to the nation aim of Expansions of the Union. The second and third batches came in the First and Second Expansions of the Union. These were done through diplomacy, contacting the nations of the Central Lakes Region with a plan of unification. Most nation heeded the call, sent by the Cathcalairach, who had been members of federation of Otino, learning from their colonial technologies, granting many advances in Calai. In the First Expansion; Lok'talu, Pieua Pioh and Solyn joined. In the Second Expansion; Ke-Seshan, Sumuher, Ketikiten, Havledon, Priataz Itoni, Kessho-kō and Lusjhusēkē. At the same time of the Second Expansion also came the colonisation of Sang Sial Itoni Sol and the founding of Einurarea as the first multinational city of Calai of Three Lakes. The Second Expansion also bought the territories of Acuir and Unity (Itoni), seconded to Ketikiten and Priataz Itoni. This was followed by the territories of Tsayyuroya, seconded to Kessho-kō, and Rhebbid, seconded to Poursoi. However, after the construction of Eth Bâtibore Hadaeidatalu Amun, The Technocracy of Rhebbid was created as an constituent nation. More detailed histories of Calai of Three Lakes are found in the constituent nation's own individual histories. The official language of the Union is Itoni Script.

## Geography

Calai stretches nearly all of the Central Lakes Region. Three different standardly recognised ecoregions are present in The Three Lakes. To the west is the tropical rainforest of The Vastness, stretching into savannah to the far west beyond borders, home to Pieua Pioh and the five nation of the Cathcalairach. Much of Rhebbid and the candidate of Vox Orenis is in central savannah, also including Sumuher, Ke-Seshan and Ketikiten. Lusjhusēkē and Solyn inhabit the tropical rainforest stretching to the eastern coast. The Central Lakes Temperate Forest is home to Havledon and the Ketikiten territory of Acuir. Priataz Itoni is the sole nation in the Southern Steppe, a deserted area much like the deserted savannah of Azir. However the province of Itoni is a full steppe, free from whatever ruined the largest provinces of the Priataz. Kessho-kō nearly lies within the steppe, however it's lakeside conditions mean itfalls within the Southern Temperate Forest, with broadly similar landscape to Central Lakes Temperate Forest.

By nation:

* **Havledon (Southern Coast of New Ocean) -** A mostly flat nation defined by its farmland and large western forest. A small swamp on its eastern border and hills rising to its south.
* **Lok'talu (Southern Coast of Sea of Hope)** - the area is defined by a dry season and wet season. Rainfall during the dry season is sparse and local flora has adapted to either enter hibernation or heavily conserve water during this time. During the wet season, the entire area springs to life with vivid colors in sharp contrast to the bleakness of the dry season. Most of the area is dominated by tropical forest and marshland with occasional hills that break up the otherwise flat landscape.
* **Lusjhuseke (North Coast of New Ocean)** - This area is mostly a tropical steppe but further north into the yellowbay province there is much denser rainforest proper.
* **Solyn (Northern Coast of New Ocean)** - The area around solyn is populated by sparce forests and open grasslands with soft orange tallgrass. It's a fairly dry summer and mildly cold winter, with enough rain to sustain the crops available. Large boulders dot the open plains, on which roost some of the local 'birds.'
* **Sumuher (The Isthmus)** - Much of the region is open desert with small brush and sparse trees. Further inland from the coast becomes harsh, arid desert. There is a large, calm river with rich and fertile floodplains at the head of the sole connection between the Sea of Hope and New Ocean that is teeming with flora and fauna. Rains are frequent along the coast where many settlements make their home.

## Languages

Every nation in Calai has its own native languages. A pidgin of many of these languages, known as Itoni Script, is the official language of Calai, and is used by most nations. Some nations, such as Kessho-kō, have languages that use unique methods of communication, such as clicking.

Opal is the official sign language used by deaf people across the Union, and was adopted from it's creators, The United Nations of Oestia.

## Politics

Calai of Three Lakes is currently under a regency, with the government of Tzitlasen running day to day affairs. Under this system, each constituent nation of the Union carries out it's own self governance, while projects relevant to all the Three Lakes have been listed by The Pent, and are carried out by the Regency Government.

## International Relations

### Central Lakes

*Calai compromises much of the Central Lakes, with it's grand geopolitical aim being ownership of the whole region, excluding it's oldest allies.*

Tzitlasen is not a formal ally of Calai, however they have informally interacted since the founding of both nations. Tzitlasen is freely allowed access to Calain technologies. The government of Tzitlasen is currently running the day to day business of Calai as it undergoes dramatic changes in government operation. The nation is one of the few that Calai can consider a true friend.

Elero and Katsuko are also old neighbours of Calai, and considered friendly nations. They are not as trusted as Tzitlasen, however they are still nations to help regardless if it aligns with geopolitical plans.

Illyuk is seen as a possible threat to territorial integrity, however Illyuk's cultural exports are valued, and Calai does not hold hostilities towards them.

Soom and Vox Orenis are countries that Calai had past diplomatic links with, but are no longer aligned. They are seen as Candidate States for the Union of Calai, to be diplomatically annexed as soon as possible. Namatkore and Talur are also similar.

Papionia is not a nation that Calai has diplomatic connection with, however they seek to annex them to the Union, hopefully through diplomacy.

Namatkore and Talur have both been sent invitations to join the Union.

Urhet and Dozoa are seen as nations that have to be annexed through military means to be made into territories, to be seconded to Havledon and Ke-Seshan. A Providence is also to be annexed as a territory, however diplomacy has not yet been ruled out as a solution, and the Constituent Nation who will take it has not been decided.

Mu-Anseme'Ban Gha'Ghaban is a nation Calai has had past contact with. The Don traded slave with it's great merchant houses, however since the abolition of slavery in Calai, this trade has ceased, and the Union has not reestablished diplomatic relations yet.

### New South Sea

*The New South Sea is seen by Calai as part of their wider non lakes sphere of influence, and while most nations do not adhere or care about this belief, it is a region that Calai sees as under their protection, and a breeding ground for future Candidate States.*

Gwanoi and Calai have few diplomatic relations. However, the southern nation has many scholars of ancient history, leading to a strong connection between Calai and Gwanoi's academic communities.

Dürm is seen as a Candidate State, with Calain plans to expand into the Southeast Coast of the Western Continent from it.

Tzoytek has long been seen as needed to be incorporated into Calai, with it long being referred to by The Pent as 'The Tzoytek Problem'. Tzoytek's Monarch Zisou A'tul has been recorded by Calai as signing over the nation as inheritance upon his death.

Sverrir is seen as the most influential player in South Sea politics, and therefore as the nation to talk with when dealing with The New South Sea Alliance, with communication usually does through the halls of the Western Continental Council Security Council. Sverrir and Calai have had minor diplomatic conflicts over planned Calain military actions in the region, although these never came to be.

### United Nations of Oestia

Calai has been involved in discussions over infrastructure projects with Menaskor since the Union became a tangible entity. Opal was adopted from UNO.

### Haven Chain Confederation and Peninsular

*The Day of Halves bought upon the double news of the past death of the Great Uniter and the sudden large technological boost. After a few months of reading textbooks, through shell companies in Tzoytek, Calai opened trade with the HCC. Since then, there has been strong partnerships with nations in the region, with Calai considered the official representative to the HCC for the Central Lakes and Western Continental Council.*

Shrivipahit is considered by Calai to be the leader of the HCC, and their main contact for diplomatic dealing with the group as a whole. Shrivipahit is a large Calain trade partner, importing large amounts of grain in return for other trade goods. Calai and Shrivipahit have long exchanged valuable information regarding territorial integrity of the Haven Chain and Western Continent, as both are members of the WCC Security Council.

Ràl Atsèl, or Limestone Land as Calains call it, is another Calain trade partner for grain and rice, with Calai importing much limestone from the nation, believing the material as necessary for future industrialisation, once the figure out how to do that. They were an early partner for the Calain colonisation project, and easier importation of limestone from Ràl Atsèl was the primary reason for the project.

Tapiria has not had much contact with Calai, however limited contact was made over the establishment of the colony, apart from permission for the project.

Talum Sha and Calai's diplomatic relations started off slightly rocky, with diplomats inquiring about why they had colonised on the Union's border. However, after some discussion, the nation was found to be an excellent partner. Talum Sha is seen by The Pent as the source for industrial and steam based technology, and is already a partner in printing the many writings of Calain academics. However, there are some rumours that Poursoi has placed spies in the colony, attempting to turn it into a city-state under the Union. Despite this, much technology is still shipped over from Talum Sha, to try to reduce Calain technological dependence on Otino.

Plo Tbrov, now The Orange Eye Oceanic Empire, is a nation that Calai has recently made contact with. Early on the Cathcalairach feared Plo Tbrov, having heard terrifying stories of raids through the WCC grapevine. However, attitudes warmed towards them after limited contact. Slightly before the Tzitlasen Regency, Pentsynd Emeritus Vertig came to Plo Tbrov with questions about dealing with democracy. This was met with confusion by a young and old pair of people form Plo Tbrov, as they seemed to reject the ideas of democracy. Plo Tbrov' emissaries then welcomed the Union to the Eastern Continent after the colonisation of Sang Sial Itoni Sol, which happened coincidentally at the time of the meeting. Vertig intends to represent Calai again as Grand Lessor, continuing their discussion on democracy and accepting the welcome to the continent soon. Despite this, the founding of The Orange Eye Oceanic Empire has concerned The Pent, who were aiming for some of the territories the new nation has taken.

### North East Imperial Confederation

*The Northeast is an unknown area to Calai, excluding some early expeditions to find the Great Uniter and the aftermath of the Centuries' War.*

Irinoslwen is well known to Calai, with the Nolghas being seen as a frequent topic of discussion in Calai since the annexation of Lusjhuseke, whose Jhunichē are also humanoid antler havers. While the northern areas are not well know, The Pent has established that they will soon establish an embassy in the state for greater exploration of the Northern Oceans and cooperation with the nations on it's coast, Irinoslwen first and foremost.

Argenta is a nation Calai has long had a complicated relationship with. Under Asahumu Polytheism one of Calai's new heroes, Viven, is believed to be one of the Argenta people, despite evidence to the contrary. This has not excused the frequent diplomatic mishaps between the two nations, including incidents such as the time Argenta almost blocked Calai's legal routes to the ocean out of a belief the early Union had started a crusade against slavery. Despite this though, there is little actual animosity between the two, and Calai seeks to establish an embassy soon.

### Eastern Northeastern Wetlands, Western Northwest and Otino

*This region is home to Calai's federation partners, Otino, as well as many of Calai's longest allies and other influentials.*

Doqnokarr is Calai's most interesting partner. For Calai's early existence, Doqnokarr was viewed as a threat. Calai and Doqnokarr's own expansions led to the nations being neighbours, and from there diplomatic contact was made. Diplomats were sent to seek the nation's favour, as spies had found they were in dire financial straits for a large empire. After finding the nation's warlike disposition, The Pent quickly devised a plan to exploit an opportunity. They offered a mercenary solution, that Doqnokarr would fight wars for Calai, against Tzoytek and Rhebbid, in return for Calai paying money for a number of months. The Pent's own Emile was sent to negotiate the arms, and in classical Poursoi manners, mangled to get further information. Calai learnt that Doqnokarr strange government planned to conquer all the world, starting with the Western Continent, and to vassalise all nations, in some strange notion this would leave them 'happy'. Emile then managed too secure a truce between Doqnokarr and all of the Western Continental Council, with Doqnokarr's spokespeople saying they could savour the time. Further information was also gathered on past methods Doqnokarr used to exploit other nations technologically, explaining why the northeastern nations had become so prosperous.

Years later, Doqnokarr's spokespeople approached Calai's on the subject of joining Otino, which was a nascent idea at the time. Promises of technological progress were put on the table, but Calai still refused. This was on the basis that they would simply become a pawn of Doqnokarr in their plans of world domination. After a while, Pentsynd Vertig came to, and took the deal. Calai then became heavily involved in the plans of joining, and one of the most important players within the federation, although this was primarily out of self interest. Today, Calai and Doqnokarr have a close relationship, with Calai importing much technology from Doqnokarr as it tries too ensure the whole Union is as advanced as the Cathcalairach. Many diplomatics hope to get assigned to the embassy and consulates in Doqnokarr, as their long relationship and sharing of secrets allows diplomats to speak frankly and sometimes even rudely with each other without causing diplomatic crises.

Yonaqnên is seen by Calai as a subtle rival for Calain influences due to their part in the Janpeto, although both nations seem to have similar goals, and both have mostly ignored each other, except for their mutual membership of Otino.

Gweriþ is a nation Calai has had very little diplomatic contact with. Despite this, Gwerip has long had many Calain immigrants, from the early days before the Union, when the nation only came together due to colonisation. The language of Ofrip bridged the long language barrier between the five tribes of Calai, allowing the first five members of The Pent to meet at a university in Gwerip, where they became friends and plotted the eventual takeover of their homeland. Both the Don and Sang have cultural practices adopted from the Gwerip. However, Calai's diplomatic relations with Dqonokarr resulted in mentorship like role changing hands. Both nations are members of Otino, with little interactions except from Reyn holding up a meeting until the Gwerip representative arrived early in the federation's founding.

Kjeropan is a nation Calai has had a long history of interacting with. Both nations were early members of the Western Continental Council, and later both members of the Security Council. Many Calains flocked to Kjeropan, fascinated by it's culture, leading to a high Calain diaspora in the nation. Calai bought along an impressive display to the Sun's Festival, and spent much time there focusing on the hosts. In the Kjeropan election of the Janpeto, the brother of Poursoi leader, Fabrice Charrier, ran for a position on triarchic executive, and won the position. From then on, Calai considered Kjeropan a partner nation and ally, with a personal friend of The Pent partially in charge. While Calai has called on Fabrice for espionage and exploitation of Kjeropan for Calain purposes, for the most part Calai has enthusiastically supported the nation and it's ambitions. Calai encouraged them to join Onito, and is Calai's closest confidant in the federation.

Noveos is another close ally of Calai. Calai first made contact after the strange natural phenomenon of thousands of glowing white lights over Noveos, with a group of Don merchants witnessing the event and flocking to the nation's capital. Since then, Noveos has been seen as one of symbols of the Western Continent in the early days of anti-colonialism in the continent. Noveos was also the founder of the Western Continental Council. Good relations between the nations were solidified when Calai was given a seat of the WCC Security Council, as one of the nation's trusted partners. While the Union of Calai today considers itself to be the Guardian of the Western Continent, it still views Noveos as the first, and in some ways believes they may never live up to the old nation's example.

### Notes

Calai is a member of the Western Continental Council, and it's Security Council. Calai is also a member of Otino, although like many members this is primarily out of self interest. Otino is responsible for Calai's technological boom on the Day of Halves. Calai is generally viewed internationally as representatives of the Central Lakes as a whole, being it's largest nation, and the most involved in international relations.

Calai lead the Sword and the Book faction in the WCC, although after the founding of the Technocracy of Rhebbid, it's ideas of conquest and knowledge had been most achieved already. Ties between the other faction member, Kolurrq, are still present despite this though. The faction led to conflict with the mostly opposed faction led to Sverrir. Tensions died down though soon after.

Although Calai has only ever grown through settlement of uninhabited land and diplomatic annexation, The Pent has no opposition to war despite it's devastation on Calai in the past, and has threatened it against Rhebbid, Tzoytek, Kolurrq, and is currently planning it against Soom, Papionia, Dürm, Urhet and Dozoa.

Calais current geopolitical goals can be stated as ensuring that it's oldest allies on the Sea of Hope advance to modern technology, annexing non-allied states in the Central Lakes, establishing embassies across the world, and exploration of the Northern Coasts and the inland of the Eastern Continent.

## Religion

Asahumu Polytheism is the syncretic state religion of **Calai**, formed from all the oldreligions of the Union. These old religions became the Heresies of Asahumu Polytheism.

## Credits

Out of character for a moment, Calai is a product of many people's work. In no particular order, here is the list.

Squidco2658 - The Cathcalairach, Union of Calai of Three Lakes, creator of this wiki page and organiser of all of this work, myself.

Zen\_Mouse - Lok'talu, it's wonderful technological help during the first weeks of Calai's existence and it's surprisingly sane culture and politics.

Onennon - Solyn, for the extensive language, lovely flag/banner and wonderful art, especially the 3D modelling.

not\_the\_FBI - Pieua Pioh, for an extensive and fascinating mythology, and the most unique flag in the Union.

Ishmail - Ke-Seshan, for the short but sweet worldbuilding, and the aura of amusing terror your name and profile picture on Discord radiates.

nifrif - Sumuher/Sumuher (Asamu amun), for the most extensive wiki page in the Union, and wonderful world building within it.

Egg - Ketikiten, which includes the most interesting cultural tradition in the Union, congratulations, although I would say it is not the safest.

Quardener - Havledon, for the most amusing language name, and the very helpful maps of the Central Lakes Region early in the project.

The1stMusket - Priataz Itoni, for the interesting cultural traditions, and the word 'Itoni', which I have used far too much in the Three Lakes.

Whiskers - Kessho-kō, for adding the best species in all Calai, the wonderful Chapas beavers, the cutest in all Delthoria.

Artie - Lusjhusēkē, for giving the Union a lot of land, and the Jhunichē, one of the more subtle but still excellent non-humans in Delthoria.

Equus, tableball35 and ω🐊 - for giving territory to the Union, even if you didn't include much in the way of worldbuilding.

Without you all, none of this could have ever happened, and Calai would just be a small nation, without too much relevance. Now, it is more than a nation, it is the preservation and transformation of many, many people's work, a lot far better than mine. To any of the contributors reading this, good luck on your projects, and good luck with life. Your writing, artworks and everything else have made this project what it is today.

- Oliver (Squidco265)