Vertgate

Vertgate is currently Mirror Domain’s oldest living civilization. It’s generally considered the birthplace of all intelligent life and the origin of Magic itself, although some would argue otherwise seeing as recorded history only goes back to the year 7000BDI. The population of the country is largely made up of Kodin, Humans, and Whiver. Kodin reign supreme here, dominating the population by an astounding 40%. 90% of all Kodin in Vertgate are of the Feline variant. 36% of the population is Human, and the rest are either Whiver or other species.

Seeing as Vertgate is the oldest country in Mirror Domain, a lot of ancient history can be found here. Ruins, Relics, and Artifacts can be found in almost every city. These ruins are generally kept well preserved and many of them have been restored to their former glory over the years. It’s a place of ancient history, and the people there heavily value this knowledge. Historians from all over the world will travel here to share and expand their knowledge.

Vertgate’s government would be considered a theocratic monarchy. They’ve been under the rule of the Lockett lineage since the year 2894BDI after their previous king, Lord Lykan, was thrown out of power. A Human named Nem Lockett took advantage of Lykan’s disappearance to push Humans into the political scene. This was the beginning of Humans' rule over Mirror Domain as a whole. Their current king is Favar Lockett, and he’s been in power since the year 821ADI.

Lykan claimed to be a speaker of the Gods, and Nem followed suit. The deity he and his descendants claim to be in contact with is the God known as Tilvet. Tilvet’s ideals are vastly different than Lykan’s, which is why many ancient people of Vertgate allowed him to take over. Followers of Tilvet are problem solvers. They want to bring peace and further people’s knowledge of the world. It’s only natural that the ancient people of Vertgate turned to this God, considering Lykan was a self centered tyrant.

That being said, how they “bring peace” is often questioned. The people of Vertgate think that only followers of Tilvet are correct in their ways, and that the world will only be unified once everyone serves under his rule. Vertgate is not open to other religions or ideals. Those who go against Tilvet are shunned or cast out from society until they “come to their senses” and convert. Some people argue that the Lockett lineage isn’t any better than Lykan. It’s just the Lykan lineage with a fresh coat of paint. Vertgate locals would argue against this, as many of them are content with their way of life.

Generally speaking, people of modern Vertgate are traditional. They haven’t changed with the times, because the problems of the past have largely been taken care of. Change would only cause new problems to arise, and Vertgate’s government doesn’t see any reason to do so. They hold ancient traditions and customs very dear, and anyone who strays from this path to become more “modern” will be shunned.

One example of their ancient customs includes their view on cats. Domestic cats are greatly valued here. It’s said that cats also have a connection to the Gods, although what God they’re in contact with is unclear. Because of this, all cats must be treated with the utmost respect. When walking down the street of any city or town you’re guaranteed to see at least two or three of them wandering around. Many cats, domestic and feral, are adorned with beautiful beads and feathers as a sign of respect.  It’s said that any item given to a cat will eventually make its way to the Gods themselves, so people will use cats as messengers of sorts. Not to send messages to other people, though. During religious ceremonies people often give the local cats letters and trinkets in hopes that they’ll be given to the Gods eventually.

Kodin and Humans are seen as equals in Vertgate. Not just Feline Kodin either, Kodin as a whole. Lesser species are expected to treat them with dignity and respect, and talking ill of them will usually get you into serious trouble. That being said, while they are considered equal, cross breeding between Kodin and Humans is frowned upon. Many lower purities stray away from Vertgate entirely to avoid discrimination. Unless they’re followers of Tilvet, it’s just not worth it.

The Whiver population of Vertgate is mostly used as workers or slaves. Whiver are seen as lesser beings, and as such they’re treated poorly. It’s not uncommon to see a person walking down the street with a Whiver at their side; carrying their belongings, doing chores, or helping with busywork. Unlike other places, Whiver are not considered “people” here. They aren’t usually talked to directly, and when they are they’re treated like pets or children.

Vertgate’s main export is water, fish, clay, and any other resource that’s inherently tied to water. While other countries border the Sea of Misa, Vertgate dominates it. No one and nothing is allowed access to this body of water without Vertgate’s say so. Those who attempt to trespass will be jailed, and those who steal from it will be executed. A ship’s captain and crew will all need permits in order to be allowed on the waters at all.

Vertgate has a ship registry which has information on all known boats and what each vessel is allowed to do in these waters. All ships inventories will be inspected upon exiting and entering Vertgate’s ports, and crews with forbidden items will be taken into custody until an explanation can be given. Ship maintenance is mandatory, and only those who are up to code will be allowed to set sail.