Kalmyr

Entrance to the Realm of Kalmyr

## Background

Kalmyr is the mysterious kingdom to the east across the Hessian Ocean located north of Shangti. The city-state is situated high in the mountains, but because of the surrounding volcanic activity, the lands are rich, green, and fertile while the surrounding region is tundra and snow covered. The Kalmyrans rarely venture forth from their homeland. They are adept in the jungle and the mountains/snow due to their unique location. This unique combination of factors has also produced some animals and plants that cannot be found anywhere else. The Kalmyrans tend to be leaner with dark hair and angular features. The main distinction of the Kalmyran people from every other race is that they live almost three times longer than other men, living around 200 years or so. Their longer lifespan has given them a different viewpoint on things than most. Some see them as wise while others are distrustful of them because of their unexplainably long lifespans. They are ruled by an Oligarchy known as The Council of Elders.

## Government

The Kalmyrans do not have a single ruler. They are governed by the Council of Nine Elders. Colloquially known as the "The Nine" or the "The Council", the members are made up of the most respected and wisest citizens of Kalmyr. They make all decisions and enforce the internal laws of the city. Since the appointment is for life, changes to the Council are not often. When a member steps down or passes away, the candidates to replace the position are nominated by the various Houses of Kalmyr. The top two candidates are then voted on by the people. Various ministers attend to the day-to-day government but with such an insular population many duties are very routine.

## Economy

Kalmyr is completely self sufficient and trade very little if at all with Shangti or any other of the Eastern Kingdoms. The food they hunt and harvest is more than enough to feed their own. The natural resources of the volcanic valley provide for their every need. The few items they do import are more for luxury or curiosity. They do have a fairly rich eatheryl deposits in the region and there is some differences of opinions amongst the Council and the people on whether they should export it or not.

## Defenses

Kalmyr does not have an army per se but the Kalmyran Defense Force (KDF) is for all intents and purposes an army. It is responsible for keeping the city border safe from roving beasts and as well as defending the borders from any unwanted visitors. All male Kalmyrans are required to spend 2 years in the KDF when they reach 18 years old. The city-state is bordered by extremely mountainous and treacherous terrain and the main entrance to the city is guarded by a massive gate and bridge that stretches over a chasm. Reaching the city is no easy task. The surrounding area is fraught with dangers and the natural cold weather and snow are a natural deterrent. The most elite organization within the KDF are the Ghostriders. They are elite soldiers that patrol the areas around Kalmyr using giant snow leopards.

## Notable Locations

### Chamber of Elders

In the center of the city lies the Chamber of Elders. It is where the Council convenes and where decisions are made and trials are held. It is a large, round structure that seems to emanate strength and wisdom. The various ministers also have their offices there where they and their staff carry out the running of the city.

### The Wildlands

Outside of the city in proximity to the volcano, lie what the Kalmyrans call the Wildlands. It is a lush untamed jungle filled with wild animals and dangers around every corner. The Kalmyrans rarely venture deep into this microcosm although the closest areas are farmed, using the rich volcanic soil with good effect. Ruins dot the landscape suggesting that many eons ago the Kalmyrans did not always live in the mountain city-state. Short of the death sentence the worst sentence that can befall a Kalmayran citizen is to be exiled to the Wildlands. It is considered a death sentence but rumor abound of those that have survived and live in the Wildlands.