Heliga

**Heliga** is a country defined by its resilience, unique challenges, and the enduring spirit of its people. While it may be vastly different from Masada in many ways, it stands as a testament to the strength and determination of its citizens in the face of adversity.

Their history is marked by its role as a testing ground for Evalkan projects and military weapon tests. This has led to external forces contesting for the country's protection. The Panamoan Republic ultimately won the bid to protect Heliga, forging a unique diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

## Overview

Heliga is a vast country situated in the central hemisphere of the planet Nexonia Prime. Its landscape is marked by a variety of terrains, including arid deserts, humid coastal regions, and rugged mountains. The country's diverse geography reflects its complex challenges and the resilience of its people.

Heliga is a third-world country with a stable but modest economy. Agriculture, although mediocre, is a significant source of livelihood for many Heligan citizens. The country faces economic disparities, with a low overall income level, but the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation is on the rise.

Compared to its neighbor Masada, Heliga lags behind in terms of technological advancement. The limited access to modern technology has spurred local innovation, with some communities relying on traditional methods to meet their needs. Life in Heliga is not without its challenges. The country grapples with issues such as crime, poverty, and the constant threat of various forces, including terrorists, supernatural beings, and extraterrestrial entities. Despite these challenges, the people of Heliga are known for their resilience and sense of community.

Heliga is renowned for having the most hospitable people on the planet. Despite their economic hardships, the Heligans are known for their warm and welcoming nature. The country boasts a non-toxic culture that emphasizes community, cooperation, and cultural preservation.

In *Lost Light*, the country is subject to their simulated warfare.

## Locations

Each of these locations within Heliga adds a unique flavor to the country, showcasing its diversity in landscapes, cultures, and economic activities. Despite their challenges, the people of Heliga have found ways to thrive and celebrate their distinct way of life in each of these cities and regions.

* **Rasuk** (Capital City): Rasuk serves as the heart of Heliga, both politically and economically. The city is a bustling metropolis despite the country's economic challenges. It features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, with vibrant markets, government buildings, and cultural centers. The Royal Palace, a historic landmark, stands as a symbol of Heligan sovereignty.
* **Tiamat**: Located on the southern coast, Tiamat is a coastal city known for its bustling port and fishing industry. It's a hub of trade, and its seafood markets are renowned for their fresh catches. Tiamat's beaches attract both tourists and locals seeking relaxation and water sports.
* **Nickoti**: Nestled in the heart of the arid desert region, Nickoti is a desert oasis town. Its lush gardens and date palm groves provide a stark contrast to the surrounding sand dunes. Nickoti is famous for its traditional desert festivals, featuring camel races and folk music performances.
* **Vuramasi**: A city situated in the foothills of the Heligan mountains, Vuramasi is known for its scenic beauty and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The city also houses several hot springs, drawing visitors looking for relaxation.
* **Lachmann**: Located in a fertile valley, Lachmann is an agricultural hub. Its fields produce a variety of crops, including grains, fruits, and vegetables, which contribute significantly to Heliga's food security. The city hosts lively farmers' markets and agricultural fairs.
* **Klauser**: Situated at the crossroads of trade routes, Klauser is a bustling market town known for its exotic bazaars. Traders from neighboring countries converge here to exchange goods, spices, and textiles. Klauser's vibrant atmosphere makes it a melting pot of cultures.
* **Omegdhatu**: A city nestled in the rugged Heligan mountains, Omegdhatu is a center for traditional crafts. Skilled artisans produce intricate textiles, pottery, and woodwork, preserving Heliga's rich artistic heritage. The city's winding streets are a delight to explore.
* **Namroken**: This coastal city on the northern shores of Heliga boasts picturesque beaches and a thriving maritime industry. Namroken's shipyards produce traditional wooden fishing boats and trading vessels. It's also home to a marine research institute.
* **Zarcoti**: Located near the border with neighboring countries, Zarcoti is a cultural crossroads. It's known for its multicultural festivals, featuring music, dance, and cuisine from various ethnic groups. The city's diversity reflects Heliga's inclusive and harmonious society.

## Trivia

### General

* Like Razikstan, Heliga is subject to a lot of wars, such as the *Global War*, *Desert Storm*, *PROJECT-G/NEX War*, and *Bygone: The Uprising*.
* The stance against racism and inequality in Heliga is a positive and noteworthy aspect of the nation's culture. It underscores the values of inclusivity and fairness within Heligan society, setting it apart from some other countries in Nexonia Prime. This commitment can lead to various storylines involving diplomacy, nevian rights, and social justice.
* Heliga's involvement in the Millennium River Coalition, led by Ardona, adds an intriguing geopolitical dimension to their history. Their pursuit of control over the iconic Millennium River through force reflects the country's determination to assert itself on the regional stage and address its resource challenges.
* Heliga's status is barren, but owing to the Legion's efforts, the country is slowly recovering.
* Heliga is part of the continent Helghanu, also known as the equatorial continent.

### Developmental Notes

* Heliga's portrayal as a country with challenges in technology and economic development draws inspiration from real-world African nations like Nigeria and Kenya.
* The rough history between Heliga and Masada explains why Masada does not actively assist Heliga in overcoming its challenges.
* The popularity of camels and horses in Heliga reflects the country's reliance on traditional modes of transportation. It showcases the resilience and adaptability of the Heligan people, who make the most of their resources to navigate their challenging environment.
* Despite the potential for progress, Heliga continues to grapple with poor technology and a struggling economy. These challenges are central to the country's identity.