Western Kingdoms
The region known as the Western Kingdoms is an ancient land steeped in history and legend. Colonized several millennia ago during the exodus from the Relic Lands, it was once a place of grand empires and powerful civilizations that were ultimately lost in a great war. This cataclysmic conflict saw the fall of many empires, leaving behind a landscape rich with ruins and remnants of the past.
Geographically, the Western Kingdoms is a small continent connected to the most westerly point of the Wastes by a narrow land bridge, and it lies to the north of the Midean Sea. To the south of the Midean Sea is the Dark Continent of Afar, while to the west stretches the vast expanse of the Midlantian Ocean, the mysterious Relic Lands, and the dragon-ruled Dragon Lands. The region boasts diverse geography, ranging from snow-capped mountains and vast open plains to ancient forests and much more. In the north, temperatures are colder, with snow and ice remaining year-round. Moving further south, the climate becomes temperate and pleasant, and at its most southern tip, it turns very warm and arid. The land is dotted with signs of previous human inhabitants in the form of ancient ruins, and even remnants of the Eldren civilization still exist.
Today, the Western Kingdoms consist of five large nations: Neustria, Ostland, Rividia, Tilia, and Weyland, along with several smaller nations. These nations have grown significantly over time, leaving only a few large tracts of untamed wilds behind. However, numerous smaller wilds still exist throughout the region, and where humanity abandons or neglects the land, these wilds often resurge, reclaiming their territory.
The Western Kingdoms, especially Neustria, have now entered an age of High Renaissance. This cultural and technological awakening has touched many aspects of life, bringing about significant advancements and improvements. The invention of the printing press, the development of firearms, modern sewage and plumbing systems, and intricate clockwork mechanisms have all contributed to this new era. Combined with the resurgence of Arcane magic, these advancements have led to the re-emergence of the fabled Charmwrights, skilled artisans who blend technology and magic to create wondrous devices.
Music, too, has evolved, becoming more complex with the development of new musical instruments and styles. The influence of spices from the far-off Dragon Empire has transformed culinary practices, with black pepper becoming particularly popular. Jade Tea, imported from the Dragon Empire, has become a favorite among the elite, and the spicy cuisine of the Wastes has found its way into the diets of many people.
The Western Kingdoms are well-connected by a network of good roads, patrolled for safety, and featuring toll bridges and ferries that facilitate greater movement and trade. The famous Caercasonne clockwork train to Garonelle has had a dramatic effect on the movement of goods and people, revolutionizing transportation and commerce in the region.
In response to diminishing resources, enterprising individuals have once again turned their eyes towards the Relic Lands as a potential solution. Neustria, in particular, has sponsored the Eastern Trading Company to establish a colony called Southshore in the Relic Lands, seeking to tap into the untold riches and opportunities that lie within.
In summary, the Western Kingdoms is an ancient and storied land with a rich history of colonization, war, and resurgence. It is a region of diverse geography, advanced technology, and cultural renaissance, with a strong connection to both its past and its future. As the nations of the Western Kingdoms continue to grow and evolve, they remain a testament to the enduring spirit and ingenuity of their inhabitants.