Vyckeros

Vyckeros is a country in Euwesca that is a primary location of the campaign, and is the home country of the main characters.

## History

The region was formally under control of the Metrian Empire until its secession nearly 100 years prior to the campaign.

The discovery of Dyssia and led to unfettered riches for Vykerosi traders. Besides exotic minerals and spices the traders brought back to Euwesca, they also brought with them exotic peoples, some had horns, or bizarre skin colouring, tails or unusually vibrant eyes, or numerous other physical curiosities. With their newfound allies and the riches of trade which came with the trade routes to Dyssia, trading companies became as powerful as small kingdoms. Their trading vessels became merchant fleets, and their guards became a privateer army. The Metrian Empire took notice and The Empress of Fire, Eternal Matriarch of Metria and Living Saint of the Flame, demanded a religious tithe of Vyckeros. The Vyckerosi refused and a secession was mounted by a group of powerful trading companies led by Captain Estrad Velt. The ensuing war, coined the War of Strings, lasted 11 years and resulted in Vyckeros's independence. The Vyckerosi were aided by the Council Kingdoms as an invaluable ally and trading partner during the rebellion.

Vyckeros, among other nations, were given sovereignty after the war. Many expected Rector Velt to adopt the title of King and begin a new legacy. The title of Rector however, remained. Vyckeros became a power combining oligarchy and meritocracy.

## Geography

Vyckeros lies on the Eastern coast of Euwesca, sharing a border with the Metrian empire to the Northwest and the Council Kingdoms to the Southwest. Across the Alvini Channel to the North is the island nation of Alvland.

## Government

The Provinces of Vyckeros governed as a Merchant Republic, with each Province nominating a Patrician, who amongst themselves would nominate a Rector.

Positions of power in Vyckeros are governed by financial aptitude, reputation and skill. A person of any field can nominate themselves for the position of Patrician - whether they are the most savvy of merchants or the most skilled of playwrights. These Patricians meet in the capital of Northgate to nominate themselves into council roles, culminating with the nomination of a new Rector. The Rector can occupy their position until new Patricians are nominated ten years later.

This form of government has existed in Vyckeros for almost a century. The Patrician of Northgate often occupies the role of Rector, with other Patricians taking on roles pertaining to their own provinces. Iressia for example is ruled by Patrician Gracia Morefi, Commander General of the East Dyssian Trading Company.

There is palpable resentment in some noble families who were no longer able to rely on their lineage for power. They saw commoners with business enterprises rise above them in the hierarchy. Many of the noble families took to creating businesses of their own. Others however fell into poverty and lost their nobility and their privilege.

## Economy

The Vyckerosi are experiencing a boom of wealth from the import of Dyssian goods. They are important trading partners with the other nations in Euwesca.

## Culture

Vyckeros is renowned for its sea-hardened travellers and wayward explorers. Constantly moving forward into unknown corners of Eudura, changing the maps of the world with new lands. It is said that the spirit of Nessad, the Wandering Son, imbues their people. They have no choice but to lift their feet from the ground and voyage to unknown places. Wherever Soleil shines, you will find a Vyckerosi.

However far they travel, at some point in their life a true Vyckerosi will look back to their homeland and endeavour to bring back something which makes it stronger. Never was this more exemplified than when Estrad Velt, captain of the Empress Sight, returned from his voyage to the new world. Elderly folk in Vyckerosi still tell tales of how their grandfathers and grandmothers sailed on that ocean-spanning expedition.

## Diplomatic Relations

Vyckeros maintains an allegiance with the Council Kingdoms in the South.

Relations with the Metrian Empire have recovered in most but pockets of animosity remain, particularly in areas where the War of Strings was fought the hardest.

## Notable Settlements

Northgate

Salt Landing