Ede

Ede is a small land-locked nation centrally located on the continent of Calisia. While it boasts a smaller population than the bordering nations, its location once allowed it to thrive as a primary trading hub. International conflict greatly diminished Edish influence, and their internal strength was severely weakened following the Demi-Human Exodus.

## Geography

Ede is a fairly flat land well-suited for agriculture, particularly along the several rivers that run through it. Two such rivers flow from the Northern Mountains and are often referred to as the Ropes. The Bras River passes along the western side of the nation and passes near the cities Vertueux and Reim. The Jambe River runs east toward Vichy before turning into Trice.

The northern and southern borders of Ede are marked by vast mountain ranges that are difficult to cross unless under exceptional weather conditions. These hurdles prevented the Edish from continuing north to the sea, but also provide a natural defense from both naval attacks from the north and land attacks from Salstas to the south.

## Demographic

As a newer nation, Ede has a relatively small population. Prior to the Exodus, the estimated population was just over 120,000 people. This number took both Human and Demi-Humans into account. The capital city Vertueux had the largest population of 65,000. Approximately 13%, or 5,000, of the population was Demi-Human (mostly Foxes due to their cleaner appearance as servants for the wealthy). Vichy had population of 25,000, and Reim of 15,000, with a combined demi population of 12,000.

The population of Ede sharply declined due to the Valencian War from 1171 to 1173. The extreme casualties, primarily young men, resulted in a "lost generation" following the war. The stagnant Human population fueled fears that the demis would soon outnumber them.

That might have been possible were it not for the Exodus in 1189, when Atago led a mass migration of demis over the Northern Mountains to form the nation of Shinkoku.

## Government and Diplomatic Relations

Like most other nations, Ede is ruled by a monarchy, which is supported by a robust noble class. Much of the nation's power is focused in Vertueux. The Fontaine Royal Family has ruled Ede since its founding.

Ede's relations with its bordering nations have never been more than cordial. While trade with Valencia allowed many nobles to increase their wealth, the Valencian War and the resultant Reconciliation Treaty caused a significant rift between the two nations.

While not involved directly in the Trician Conflict, it was not uncommon for Haaf and Salstian forces to raid villages in south-eastern Ede. The ever-looming threat led to the majority of Ede's Royal Army to be strategically positioned near the shared borders, and occasionally led to skirmishes between the nations.

Despite personal grievances, Ede and Shinkoku maintain diplomatic channels, primarily for commerce. Careful negotiations allowed trade routes to be established between the two nations. Shinkoku also purchases goods from Valencia for resale in Ede, bypassing the restrictions of the Reconciliation Treaty to the benefit of both countries.

## Economy

The land between the Ropes, encompassing most of the usable area of Ede, is particularly fertile. Prior to the Valencian War, Ede was famed for their high-quality grain and produce exports. However, the massive population shrinkage led to the decline of local agriculture. Reliance on imported food from Valencia became critical to Ede's survival.

With the Exodus leading to a further reduction of Ede's labor force, its ability to provide for its citizens was handicapped. Even supported by international trade, Ede no longer remains a powerful force on Calisia.