Dominant Race: Humans
Government: Roman Empire
Population: 1,900,824
Geography: Roma Astium, occupying much of the historic territory known as Allora, stretches across 881,232 square kilometers. This vast land includes 625,000 square kilometers of arable land (71%) and 255,000 square kilometers of wilderness (29%). The capital, Castra Norba, is a city of 187,000 residents and serves as the administrative and cultural heart of the region. The empire’s control extends over other cities, such as Quenora, Callonia, Valenium, Myrandium, Tripolis, and Tusculum, as well as two fortresses, though these serve primarily as remnants of past glory rather than active defense.
Culture and Society:
Roma Astium’s current society reflects its conquest and transformation under Roman rule, particularly following the decline of the once-flourishing Alloran civilization. The region once hailed as the center of Eredonia’s greatest empire has become more insular under Roman influence. The Roman Empire instills a strict hierarchical society, favoring humans and suppressing cultural diversity. The few non-human residents have faced widespread discrimination, driving migrations that have changed the demographic makeup of greater Eredonia. Local nobility under Roman authority govern according to imperial law, with a strong emphasis on discipline, order, and adherence to Roman customs. Some remnants of the ancient Alloran ways linger, but they are often kept hidden or preserved by isolated communities outside the gaze of the empire.
Economy: Roma Astium’s economy centers on agriculture, taking full advantage of the extensive arable land to sustain both local populations and the Roman elite. Trade exists but is highly controlled, benefiting Roman officials and merchants who manage the flow of resources and wealth. Self-sufficiency is emphasized, especially in rural communities.
Language: Latin is the official language under Roman rule, though traces of Old Alloran dialects survive among rural populations and small villages.
Religion and Spirituality:
- Polytheistic Beliefs: Romans enforce the worship of their pantheon, particularly gods associated with war, strength, and conquest.
- Religious Influence: Temples to Roman gods are built in every town, though the influence of Alloran deities is still observed discreetly by some. Religious authorities align closely with Roman governance, enforcing laws and guiding morality through imperial religious teachings.
- Rituals: Rituals honoring Roman gods are held publicly, often in grand ceremonies that double as state propaganda. Secret rites honoring ancient Alloran gods occur in secluded places.
Daily Life:
- Work and Leisure: Life for commoners revolves around agriculture, construction, and service in Roman households or public works. Leisure time is limited and primarily spent in communal gatherings or small-scale festivals.
- Education: Education is reserved for Roman elites, with literacy among commoners generally low. Dwarf clans and other isolated groups pass down trades through apprenticeships.
- Cuisine: Local cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Alloran dishes, featuring grains, vegetables, and seasonal fruits. Roman cuisine, with its emphasis on rich, spiced dishes, is increasingly prominent in larger towns and among the upper classes.
Notable Locations:
The capital city, Castra Norba, has 187,000 inhabitants and remains the most significant city. Dwarven clans, such as the Bonecloak and Greybrows, reside in the nothern hills and mountains, largely withdrawn from public life.
Cities:
Roman Astium Names:
Masculine: Lyco, Antipho, Telestis, Alcesimus, Pseudolus, Cylindrus, Tedusius, Lycus
Feminine: Pinaria, Opsia, Duronia, Mucia, Helvetia, Vipsania, Antia
Surnames: Lupercus, Audens, Cotta, Vitus, Sejanus, Sylvius, Gelasius, Quintillius