Drakaria

A map of the current continental Drakaria and its main islands

Drakaria is the largest continent in the world of Aquilon. It is known as "Home of the Sun", "The Dragon's Cradle", and a place *where greatness stems from small beginnings.* The momentous story of the five heroes from Goldenoak Vale (***party name pending***) begins here.

## **Nations**

In Drakaria there are both mainland nations and surrounding island, all with separate communities and independent city- and vassal states. People recognize the three mainland nations as the "superpowers" of the continent.

### **Mainland Nations**

#### **Cyrinean Kingdom: Home of the Arcane**

To the west lies The Cyrinean Kingdom, the home of the arcane arts and academics. Its people, a blend of mostly humans and elves, possess a deep affinity for magic and mystical knowledge. Towering spires of ancient academies and libraries serving as beacons of wisdom and enlightenment, attracts from afar anyone in search of answers. Its capital city of Pontevara having stood the test of time, is adorned with golden towers and banners in wine red hues. It houses wizards, scribes, sorcerers, and alchemists intertwining mystical energies with economic transactions. The sky is littered with solar sails harnessing cosmic powers aboard airships, enabling seamless travel across the skies. It all gives the kingdom a sense of boundless possibilities and an actual potential for reaching the stars.

#### **Praxan Covenant: The Technological Marvel**

In Drakaria's eastern reaches lies the region of Praxia. There, the Praxan Covenant thrives on technological innovation and engineering prowess. In stark contrast to the Cyrinean Kingdom, *halflings* and *dwarves* shape the destiny of this nation, being renowned for their expertise in mechanics and industry. Magnificent underground cities known as *kraghs* harness the power of steam and coal based energy, and the capital city of Mechanora stands as a testament to Praxia's technological ingenuity with its intricate clockwork towers. Workshops and factories pulsate with rhythmic clanking of gears and the hissing of steam as they produce wondrous inventions that find their way into the markets, armies, industries, and homes of the Covenant.

#### **The Unbound: A Frontier of Freedom**

Stretching all along the southern divide lies the Unbound, a realm that beckons those seeking liberation from the constraints of politics and bureaucracy. Here, individualistic endeavors and self governance reign supreme, resembling a wild west where pioneers carve out their own destinies. Independent settlements engage in trade, barter, and resource extraction, tapping into the region's natural wealth. Prospectors mine precious minerals while hunters and gatherers seek out valuable resources and wildlife from the uncharted wilderness. It is a feudal realm of both great risks and potential rewards, inviting people from all walks of life to join one of the warring tribes, and hopefully be on the winning side of true freedom.

### **History of the continental powers**

#### **The Unification**

In Drakari history, the narrative of unity and division runs deep. There was a time when the various people of Drakaria stood as one, bound together by a shared purpose. The continuous cycle of old empires rising, failing, crumbling, and then giving birth to grand nations anew has repeated for Eras. Yet, we never seem to learn, and we never falter, so we try, and try again.

The early days of Drakaria were marked by a struggle for survival and dominance. Races and cultures fought among themselves, seeking to claim their place in a land meant for everyone. Visionary leaders emerged, and together they established the foundation of a single nation, drawing upon their collective strengths and forging a shared identity. This commonwealth of nations consisting of both larger and smaller states was founded as "the Astrata Confederacy". It was simply two parts of the same coin. The same people, living the same ways and dreaming of the same things. They harnessed the gifts of technology, magic, and the remnant wisdom of the dragon deities to advance their civilization. The eastern region, Praxia, with its mastery of clockwork engineering and intricate underground network of kraghs emerged as a hub of innovation and industry. The western region, Cyrene, had deep traditions of knowledge and scholarship, becoming a center of learning and culture.

#### **The Secession**

After a long time of peace and harmony, the forces that once united the people began to fade. Ironically, a longing for *individual identity* gradually eroded the bonds of unity once again. The swath of land comprising southern Drakaria had laid unexplored and dormant, oblivious to everything else going on in the world. This nearly uninhabited land soon embraced its isolation, becoming a realm separated from the tides of governance and power struggles. No longer merely an empty space awaiting designation, it got its name "The Unbound". It was, in fact, a testament to the adaptability of the land itself; A place where nature reigned supreme and the forces of civilization had yet to leave their mark. It became a sanctuary for those who sought a life beyond the confines of cities and borders; a place where the wild and the free could thrive, a place where the starry night did not yet give way to towering constructions and cargo ships.

As time wore on, the fires of unity dwindled even more, giving rise to competing ambitions, and the birth of distinct nations: the Praxan Covenant and the Cyrinean Kingdom. The Covenant and the Kingdom both sought to chart their own paths, both thinking that they had cracked the key to survival, and to stand the test of time. The Unbound, existing on the fringes of civilization, created its own unique way of life amidst the untamed wilderness. Though the unity that once defined Drakaria had given way to division and separate paths, the legacy of their shared heritage remains. The echoes of their collective struggles and triumphs still reverberate through the history books, reminding the inhabitants of the bond they once shared.

## **Geography**

Drakaria's geography is a testament to the raw power of its creation. It showcases a blend of boreal and deciduous forests, expansive plains, majestic mountain ranges, and ethereal tundras. Hidden caverns filled with mysterious artifacts and sacred groves of ancient trees form the backbone of the continent natural wonders, begging explorers to venture forth and unlock its secrets. Travelling offers plentiful sights, and each region has its own unique charm and hidden natural treasures waiting to be discovered.

#### **Sky Splitting Mountains**

The continent is adorned with awe inspiring mountain ranges that stretch across vast expanses. These towering peaks, often covered in a blanket of snow or veiled in mist serve as natural boundaries between regions. Among the most renowned ranges are the Buckbeak Spine, whose jagged peaks pierce the sky, and the Thunderstone Range, known for its thundering waterfalls and ancient caves.

#### **Dryadic Forests**

Drakaria is blessed with biodiverse forests that teem with life. The Whispering Woods, named for the soft murmur of the wind going through the towering crowns, is a sacred grove where druids, dryads and mystics seek solace and commune with nature. The Verdant Hollow, with its lush foliage and vibrant flora, is home to mythical creatures and hidden clearings where rare herbs and magical plants flourish.

#### **Caverns and Dragon Nesting Grounds**

Hidden beneath the surface lies a network of caverns carved out throughout time. These subterranean roads hold remnants of forgotten civilizations, hidden artifacts of great power, and the occasional dragon nesting ground of old. Yes, you read that right - d*ragons lie in wait beneath your feet.* Guided by ancient maps and legends, adventurers can brave the treacherous depths in search of lost treasures and knowledge. If nothing else, a swift death will be provided by what awaits.

#### **Tundras and Frozen Wastes**

The tundras of Drakaria exude a stark beauty. These frozen landscapes, bathed in shimmering ice and dancing auroras, are home to resilient wildlife and strong clans that have adapted to the harsh conditions. The Frozen Citadel, an ancient fortress encased in ice brought on by a storm lasting for an entire age, stands as a testament to the trials met by those who came before us.

#### **Mighty Oceans and Coastal Wonders**

Drakaria is blessed with bountiful oceans that shape its coastlines and provide a wealth of resources and maritime adventures. To the north, the Alacastor Expanse offers vast stretches of icy water dotted by glaciers and icebergs. The Coral Cays, home to vibrant coral reefs and teeming marine life, is a network of islands adorned with secluded beaches, providing havens for pirates and explorers of the west alike. Adamant Bay, with its deep trench and imposing southern cliffs, is a point of convergence for seafaring traders, while the eastern Cobalt Sea and Bridgepool Sea beckons with tales of long lost treasures and inviting coastal communities.

## **Culture**

### **A Melting Pot of Perseverance**

There's always going to be a *top* and *bottom* in any hierarchy. In Drakaria, disparities in wealth distribution exist everywhere, with the upper echelons using their gifts to amass substantial fortunes, and those below the poverty line struggling to make ends meet. The rich indulge in the finer things and have extravagant gatherings that showcase wealth and influence. Meanwhile, the less fortunate - even while facing hardships - show resilience in preserving their cultural heritage. Grassroots initiatives and community celebrations emerge from the depths of struggle, further cementing that there is hope to be found *anywhere* in Drakaria.

### **Expression Knows No Bounds**

The exchange of ideas, practices, and artistic expressions creates a fertile ground for growth of a shared Drakari identity that transcends individual backgrounds. From the nomadic tribes of the Unbound to the arcane enchanters of the Cyrenian Kingdom and the clockwork engineers of the Praxan Covenant, they're all part of a society that cherishes and embraces heritage. In the end, Drakaria's people will hopefully remember that they *are* one and the same.

## **Economy**

Driven by diverse industries and guided by distinct political ideologies, the economy of Drakaria is full of opportunities and challenges. If not by magic, industrial ventures can be powered by the relentless energy of solar power, steam and coal. Manual labor is a common sight.

### **Currency of Drakaria: The Drakon Standard**

The Drakon Standard, with its two-denomination dragon scale currency, serves as the backbone of commerce, facilitating seamless transactions across the continent. There's a large economy based in jewelry and gemstones, but the Drakon Standard fuels all of it.

#### **Scales: The Foundation of Everyday Commerce**

The silvery Scales represent the primary denomination of currency in Drakaria. These elongated, gleaming silver coins adorned with intricate patterns reminiscent of dragon scales serve as the foundation of everyday transactions and local commerce. Scales provide a practical and accessible means of exchange for the common populace, enabling individuals to engage in smaller purchases, trade in local markets, and cover daily expenses.

#### **Draks: The Golden Key to Prosperity**

The shimmering golden coins called *draks* (slang for "Drakons") are embossed with majestic dragon motifs, and hold greater value and significance compared to Scales. Draks are widely accepted and utilized for substantial transactions, larger purchases, and trade within the regional and national markets. They represent a more substantial accumulation of wealth and purchasing power. Usually, an employed middle class citizen makes about 60-80 draks a year.

#### **Prismas: Celestial Treasures of Unparalleled Worth**

Prismas are iridescent tokens infused with ancient magic, representing immense value and power. These artifacts are sought after by collectors, nobles, and those desiring extraordinary riches. But obtaining Prismas is no small feat. Raw prismarite crystals are formed on the surface of the moon before they fall to the earth. The magic contained within makes the crystals phase through terrain before they settle, often within treacherous caverns and mines (not to be confused with Starquartz, which can originate from any celestial body). When collected they undergo meticulous refining by skilled artisans and alchemists, and is transformed into the exquisite and valuable currency known as *Prisma*. The refining process not only enhances the gem's natural radiance but also revives the magical properties within, further amplifying their desirability. Prismas are not commonly used or even seen in everyday life. Instead, they are often reserved for significant international dealings.

## **Mythology and beliefs**

Drakaria is synonymous with tales of heroic deeds and legendary creatures. Stories of gods, heroes, and mythical beings continues to be adapted and reiterated upon, again and again, until entirely new legends are born. *Who knows* if the tales of our modern times have any semblance of truth to them compared to what originally happened? Either way, people find a way to believe in something. Sometimes it's something very tangible, other times it is something as far away from this world as one can imagine.

### **The Draconic Faith**

Dragons hold a significant place in Drakaria's culture and society, and are further expanded upon in the Draconic Mythos. The primordial, ancient dragons are revered as both fearsome adversaries and majestic protectors. The Draconic faith does a delicate balancing act of teaching surface dwellers both fear, wonder and respect when it comes to these creatures. In the Third Era, most greater dragons are extinct, but the Primordial gods are still believed to be out there...somewhere.

### **The Stone**

It is said the all dwarves are born comprehending three languages: Dwarven, bluntness, and the song of the Stone. Underground, the air has a different sound to it, the ground has a different give, and the deep a different echo. It all comes from the being that is everything and anything in the Dwarven empire: stone.

### **The Eternal Branch**

In the secluded Goldenoak Vale, people believe in keeping the wisdom and knowledge of their ancestors close to heart. In the center of the Vale stands a magical tree with the ability to keep souls within its structure. These souls talk through the wind and rustling of leaves as they guide and mentor the ones left behind in the mortal world.

### **Folklore: Tall Tales**

Legends in Drakaria are filled to the brim with valiant heroes and heroines undertaking epic quests: champions armed with unwavering resolve confront ancient evils and restore balance to damaged lands. The tales of the fabled Sword of Targis said to cleave through any material, or the Eternity Amulet granting immortality at a great cost fuel the imaginations of both young and old, igniting a sense of adventure and the belief in the extraordinary. Legendary encounters with monsters and animals are also prominent; the lore of the Sirens whose enchanting voices lured sailors to their deaths, or the mischievous sprites who play tricks on unsuspecting travelers. Encounters with mythical beings are also commonly used for proverbs and cautionary tales.