Rivermond

Rivermond is a land of chivalry, where the knights are the embodiment of the country's values of honor, loyalty, and courage. The people of Rivermond place great importance on their code of chivalry, which emphasizes the importance of upholding one's word, defending the weak, and fighting for justice. The knights of Rivermond are expected to adhere to this code at all times, and they are highly respected for their service to the realm.

The nation is a feudal society, with an Arch-Baron at the top of the hierarchy, ruling over a series of baronies. The barons in turn are responsible for enforcing the law within their own territories. While there are some opposing groups against the current leadership, they do not pose a significant threat to the nation. The general public is loyal to the Arch-Baron and his barons, as they have managed to create a self-sufficient country with strong agricultural production and natural resources.

Rivermond is known for its wine fields, which surround the many cities and towns and produce some of the finest wines in the continent. However, the nation also faces challenges, as they lack military power and are a vassal under the Silver Dominion. They maintain only two well-defended fortresses, Northgate and Eastfort, which are essential to the defense of the nation. The other towns and villages rely heavily on the support of the local knights for protection. Only few towns and cities, including the capital, have fortified stone walls.

The towns and cities of Rivermond have their own unique characteristics. Bellmond is surrounded by Dwarven mines and is a popular destination for monsters seeking refuge. Redmond is known for its open quarries, while Riverend is a bustling merchant city that serves as a central hub, connecting the main road with the Dynasty and the Dominion.

History of Rivermond

The First Age

Origins and Early Settlements

In the beginning of the First Age, the land now known as Rivermond was a stunning expanse marked by dramatic weather shifts in the southwestern part of the Agera continent. It was a land of vast grasslands, dense forests, and rugged northern highlands where rocky hills and imposing mountains stood as natural barriers. The native humans and dwarfs lived in humble villages, each community keeping largely to itself. Elves, with their ancient affinity for nature, settled in the thick forests, nurturing a deep bond with the land. Over centuries, these isolated villages grew into towns, and people became more interconnected, particularly along the mighty Gylder River, which flowed through the heart of Rivermond, serving as a vital artery for trade and communication.

The Dragon Conflict

As human and dwarven settlements expanded, they inevitably encroached upon the territories of Rivermond’s native dragons. These majestic and powerful creatures had long observed the growing reach of mortals with a mix of curiosity and wariness. Tensions rose and eventually culminated in open conflict, with dragons becoming the predominant threat to the inhabitants of Rivermond. This era of strife brought about a profound unity among the people, who rallied to defend their homes and families. The first heroes of Rivermond emerged during this period, their exploits and valorous deeds filling the annals of local history. The First Age became renowned as the Age of Heroes, a time of legendary figures whose tales of bravery and sacrifice inspired generations to come.

The Crowning of the First King

In the year 860 of the First Age, a monumental event occurred: the crowning of Rivermond’s first king. This milestone marked a significant shift as the disparate towns and villages were united under a single banner. For the next century, Rivermond enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity. The king’s leadership fostered a sense of national identity and communal pride, and the land flourished.

The Barony Crusade

However, this tranquility was shattered when the king was assassinated, leaving no heir to claim the throne. Accusations flew, and the ensuing chaos led to a brutal civil war known as the Barony Crusade. For two decades, Rivermond was embroiled in conflict as various lords vied for control, carving up the land into fiefdoms. The once-unified kingdom was fractured, and the future looked bleak.

The Rise of Alistair Rivers

Amidst the turmoil, a man named Alistair Rivers emerged as a pivotal figure. How he managed to broker peace remains a mystery, shrouded in numerous legends and tales. Through diplomacy, strategy, or perhaps some arcane means, Alistair united the high lords and brought an end to the civil war. His efforts restored stability, and the Rivers family ascended to the throne, ruling Rivermond justly as the First Age drew to a close.

Establishment of the Baronies

Under the Rivers dynasty, the high lords were granted the title of baron, each governing their respective regions under the king’s authority. The Barony of Greenfield to the west, known for its fertile plains and abundant harvests; the Barony of Redmond to the north, characterized by its rugged terrain and mining riches; and the Barony of Bellmond to the east, a region of strategic importance with its fortified towns and watchful defenses. The king’s lands stretched along the mighty Gylder River, which, while dividing the land in two, also served as a unifying lifeline that connected the people of Rivermond.

Thus, the First Age ended with Rivermond united under the Rivers family, its people resilient and its lands brimming with untold potential, setting the stage for the epochs to follow.

The Second Age

Ascension and Conflict

As peace once again reigned across the land of Rivermond, the old king passed away naturally, leading to a period of mourning followed by celebration as his heir, Arion Rivers, was crowned. Arion was much like his father—wise, just, and deeply committed to the well-being of his kingdom. His reign, however, was soon overshadowed by the arrival of emissaries from the Silver Dominion, a powerful empire to the north. These emissaries, carrying only "the word" of their faith, laid claim to the southern territories of Agera, which were integral parts of Rivermond.

King Arion Rivers, a respected and honorable ruler, vehemently opposed the Dominion's encroachment. Understanding the threat posed by the Dominion's growing influence, he rallied his forces and led a valiant defense of his kingdom's sovereignty. The brief but intense conflict that ensued became a defining moment in Rivermond’s history.

The Betrayal

Amidst the chaos of war, a dark shadow loomed over Rivermond. Prince Malachi, the half-elf son of King Arion Rivers, harbored deep resentment towards his father. Feeling sidelined and desiring more power, Malachi secretly aligned himself with the Silver Dominion. His betrayal was a shocking blow to the kingdom; the prince turned against his father and sided with the invaders.

King Arion Rivers fell in battle in the fields of the Barony of Greenfield, and Malachi ascended to the throne. Seizing this opportunity, Malachi negotiated terms with the Silver Dominion, ceding territory and granting them significant influence in exchange for personal gain. Thus, Rivermond became a client state of the Silver Dominion, with Malachi maintaining his role as a figurehead ruler.

Dominion Rule and Struggle for Identity

Under King Malachi’s rule, Rivermond was thrust into a dark period marked by harsh demands from the Dominion. While Malachi enriched himself, the people of Rivermond faced a constant struggle to maintain their cultural and political identity. Despite the Dominion's control, Rivermond upheld its tradition of multiculturalism, allowing various faiths, including those from the Khein Dynasty—a mighty desert kingdom to the east and rival of the Dominion—to be practiced.

The baronies of Greenfield, Redmond, and Bellmond, though obedient to the king, viewed him as a traitor. They quietly resisted Dominion policies, preserving Rivermond's founding beliefs and traditions wherever possible. This subtle defiance became a beacon of hope for many who longed for true independence.

A Persistent Struggle

Over the next six centuries, Rivermond's monarchy faced the daunting challenge of navigating the complex relationship between the Dominion’s authority and the will of its people. Kings and queens of Rivermond were constantly pressured to appease the Dominion while addressing the aspirations of their subjects. This delicate dance shaped the political landscape, leading to a series of rulers who balanced diplomacy with subtle resistance.

The people of Rivermond, divided in their loyalties, yearned for freedom. The barons continued to serve as pillars of the kingdom’s resilience, fostering a spirit of quiet rebellion against Dominion oversight. Religious and cultural practices from various traditions thrived, creating a rich tapestry of diversity that defined Rivermond’s unique identity.

Resistance and Hope

Throughout these centuries, numerous uprisings and movements for independence sporadically erupted, each brutally suppressed by the Dominion and their loyalists. Yet, these acts of defiance, though often crushed, kept the flame of independence burning in the hearts of Rivermond’s people. Legends spoke of a prophesied leader who would one day rise to unite the kingdom and cast off the Dominion's yoke. This hope sustained the spirits of many and inspired a new generation of heroes, much like those from the First Age, to dream of a free Rivermond.

As the Second Age drew to a close, Rivermond remained a land of contrasts—oppressed yet defiant, diverse yet united in its quest for sovereignty. The legacy of the Age of Heroes lingered, providing a beacon of hope and a reminder of the kingdom’s enduring strength and resilience.

The Third Age

The Third Age was a period of significant upheaval and transformation for Rivermond. Key events during this time shaped the kingdom's identity and its role in the wider world of Midora.

The Great Schism

Early into the Third Age, Rivermond experienced internal strife known as the Great Schism. Dissatisfaction with the Silver Dominion's control and King Malachi’s descendants' rule grew. This unrest led to a major rebellion in the Barony of Redmond, where Baroness Johanna Redmond, a charismatic and fierce leader, declared independence from both the Rivermond monarchy and the Dominion. Although the rebellion was eventually crushed, it highlighted the growing desire for autonomy and the deep-seated resentment towards the Dominion. The Schism fostered a sense of solidarity among the baronies, planting the seeds for future resistance movements.

The Greenfield Rebellion

The Barony of Greenfield, led by Baroness Victoria Shores, spearheaded an open rebellion against Dominion forces in the year 150. Although the rebellion was ultimately crushed in the year 153, it failed to extinguish the fire of resistance throughout Rivermond. Baroness Victoria became a martyr and symbol of the struggle for independence, her legacy inspiring future generations to continue the fight.

The Plague of Shadows

A devastating plague, known as the Plague of Shadows, swept through Rivermond in the year 230, decimating the growing population. The illness was characterized by blackened veins, sometimes black roots growing from their body and a slow, painful death. It was rumored to be a curse from the Dominion for the kingdom's insubordination. The plague's origin was never confirmed, but it forced the baronies to unite in seeking remedies and support from neighboring realms. The cooperative efforts to combat the plague strengthened inter-baronial relationships and showcased the kingdom's resilience. The plague was ended in the year 243 thanks to the aid of the native and secluded druid tribes of Rivermond. This fact is highly heretical in the eyes of the Dominion church who claims they ended it.

The Alliance of the Greenfield Accord

The capital city of the Greenfield barony, with the same namesake had been rebuilt after the siege of the city in year 153 and had begun expanding. With this the city was approached by a group of scholars and wizards. Magic had always been a sensetive topic across Rivermond due to Dominion oversight but the Baron of Greenfield at the time stuck an accord with the Wizards. They were to build a school for mages, to teach and learn about the arcane under guidance of its masters. The founding of the Arcane Academy had been set. In the year 380 the academy opened up its gates to start teaching the ways of the arcane. There was protests against the Church but the legal accord was binding. The academy quickly became known throughout the known world and students arrived from all corners of the world to study there.

The War of the Burning Fields

Tensions between Rivermond and the Silver Dominion erupted into open conflict in the War of the Burning Fields. Sparked by the Dominion’s attempt to impose harsher taxes and conscription laws, the war saw several key battles across Rivermond’s fertile farmlands. The farmlands of the Grandfields of Greenfield in year 481, the Fields of Thornhill in Bellmond in year 482 and the fields of Riverend along the Gylder river in year 484 suffered the most. The conflict earned its name from the widespread scorched earth tactics employed by both sides. Though the Dominion's superior forces initially seemed overwhelming, the resilience and guerrilla tactics of Rivermond’s defenders prolonged the conflict. Eventually, a truce was brokered in the year 484, and while the Dominion retained control, the war significantly weakened their grip on Rivermond, invigorating the spirit of independence among its people.

The Demonic Invasion of Malagore

In the year 600, the world of Midora faced a dire threat from the infernal god Malagore, who sought to scorch the mortal world. For the first time in recorded history, the mortal realms united to fight a common foe. The Silver Dominion rallied all capable forces, including countless knights and heroes from Rivermond. The kingdom responded with valor, sending many of its bravest warriors to join the battle.

For the next two decades, Midora was engulfed in a fierce struggle for survival against Malagore’s demonic legions. The conflict culminated on the continent of Eros, part of the Nagan Empire, where the combined mortal forces confronted Malagore in a climactic battle. Rivermond’s heroes fought valiantly, and many sacrificed their lives to secure victory. Malagore was ultimately defeated, and his demonic generals were banished back to their infernal realm. Despite the triumph, the invasion left Rivermond severely weakened. The heavy losses of knights and heroes created a power vacuum and led to internal instability. 

End of the Third Age

The defeat of Malagore marked the end of the Third Age, a period characterized by both profound struggle and resilience. The losses suffered during the demonic invasion underscored the heavy price of freedom and unity. The sacrifices of countless heroes ensured the survival of the mortal realms, but the road to recovery for Rivermond was long and arduous.

As the Third Age came to a close, Rivermond stood at a crossroads. The kingdom had endured centuries of hardship and oppression, yet its spirit remained unbroken. The end of the Third Age signaled the dawn of a new era, one where the lessons learned from the past would guide Rivermond towards a future of hope, unity, and renewed strength.

The Fourth Age

Dominion's Expansion

At the onset of the Fourth Age, the Silver Dominion underwent a significant internal transformation. Unbeknownst to Rivermond, the Dominion Church consolidated power and established the Dominus Chain, a military force dedicated to enforcing Dominion authority across its territories. This militarization was perceived by many in Rivermond as a direct response to their persistent resistance and failed rebellions against Dominion rule. The Dominus Chain swiftly moved into Rivermond, establishing permanent footholds within each barony and tightening the Dominion's grip on the kingdom.

Reign and Tragic Demise of King Eamon Rivers

King Eamon Rivers, the last monarch of Rivermond, ascended to the throne as a staunch opponent of the Silver Dominion's control. Throughout his reign, King Eamon tirelessly advocated for the independence of Rivermond, seeking to free his realm from Dominion influence. Despite his efforts, which included numerous petitions and alliances with his Lords and Ladies, true autonomy remained elusive. In the year 89, amidst ongoing tension and resistance, King Eamon met a tragic end under mysterious circumstances. Many among the populace believed he was assassinated by agents of the Silver Dominion who saw him as a threat to their dominance.

Following King Eamon's death, the Dominion seized the opportunity to further entrench their authority. They erected churches and cathedrals across Rivermond as symbols of Dominion power and influence. With no monarch to rule, the Dominion appointed a new figurehead to govern—the Arch-Baron, a member of the Rivers family. This appointment aimed to maintain a semblance of continuity while solidifying Rivermond as a loyal client state of the Dominion.

Suppression of the Council of the Gylder

In the year 100, the Dominion Church uncovered the existence of the Council of the Gylder, a clandestine assembly of baronial representatives that had covertly coordinated resistance efforts against Dominion authority. In a swift and brutal move, the Church publicly executed the members of the Council, effectively dismantling this oppositional body. The baronies of Greenfield, Redmond, and Bellmond were isolated further from one another, severing crucial lines of communication and solidarity.

Rise of the Grail Chapter

Amidst Dominion control, a clandestine movement began to take shape within Rivermond. Known initially as the Grail Chapter, this organization operated under the guise of local charities while secretly recruiting and training loyalist nobles. In the year 539, the Grail Chapter revealed its true identity as the Order of the Grail Knights. Committed to defending the oppressed and upholding the ideals of chivalry, the Grail Knights quickly garnered support among the commonfolk.

The Grail Knights' Stand

By the year 600, the Dominion's influence in Rivermond had reached its zenith. The Church sought to enforce its faith as the sole religion, imposing restrictions that oppressed the people. In response, the Order of the Grail Knights emerged as a beacon of resistance. They stood against the Dominion's tyranny, defending the rights of the people to worship freely and challenging the Church's authority.

The conflict escalated into open warfare as the Grail Knights clashed with Dominion forces across Rivermond. In the pivotal Battle of Vindrik in the year 604, the Grail Knights led a courageous charge against the Dominion army, which included the formidable paladins of the Dominus Chain. Despite their valor and determination, the Grail Knights were ultimately defeated. The Dominion, eager to erase their defiance from history, systematically erased records of the Grail Knights' heroism and sacrifice.

Annihilation of Vindrik

The fall of Vindrik, once a thriving city of arcane knowledge and noble heritage within the Redmond barony, stands as a tragic and haunting chapter in Rivermond's history. Known for its prestigious Arcane Collegium and vibrant culture of magical scholarship, Vindrik rivaled Greenfield in its pursuit of arcane arts. In the year 620 of the Fourth Age, tensions that had long simmered between the Arcane Collegium and the Dominion Church erupted into a catastrophic conflict. At the heart of the city's defense was Xandrik, a formidable necromancer renowned for his mastery of dark arts and unwavering loyalty to his home. As the Dominion Church sought to extend its authority over the city, Vindrik became a battleground where arcane might clashed with religious zeal.

Led by Xandrik's fierce defense, Vindrik resisted the Church's encroachment with all its arcane prowess. However, the conflict escalated into a cataclysmic struggle. Whether through unleashed magics or orchestrated calamities, the once-proud towers of Vindrik were reduced to rubble. The devastation was so profound that what remained of the city transformed into Highmarsh—a cursed expanse of haunted swamps and crumbling ruins. In the wake of the destruction, Vindrik's legacy became shrouded in fearful folklore. The Dominion Church, fearing the malevolent entities and dark energies unleashed in the conflict, declared the area forbidden. Highmarsh became a stark reminder of the perils of unchecked power and the enduring shadows cast by a city lost to darkness.

The Death Charge

During a period of relative peace under Dominion rule, the Barons of Rivermond received urgent orders from the capital to fortify the eastern border towards the Khein Dynasty. Heightened tensions and rumors of an impending invasion prompted swift action. In response to the Dominion's directive, the Knights of Bellmond launched a daring charge across the border in a bid to preemptively strike at potential enemy forces. The charge, known as the Death Charge, was intended to shock and demoralize the enemy. However, the Knights swiftly encountered a well-fortified war camp, where the enemy was prepared and waiting.

The initial momentum of the charge was abruptly halted as the Knights of Bellmond clashed head-on with the entrenched enemy forces. The fighting that ensued was fierce and bloody, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides. Despite their valor and determination, only a handful of Knights managed to return home to Bellmond.

The consequences of the Death Charge were profound. It not only inflicted heavy losses upon the Knights of Bellmond but also strained relations within the barony. The Baron of Bellmond, faced with the devastating outcome, found himself at odds with his heir and son, who had opposed the premature attack. This rift within the ruling family of Bellmond underscored the high cost of hasty military decisions and the complexities of leadership during times of uncertainty and conflict. The year 913 marked a somber chapter in Rivermond's history, one defined by the tragic losses suffered in the name of defense and the enduring challenges faced by its noble houses.

Sovereignty Type

The Small Court

The Arch-Baron and Barons 

The Arch-Baron and Barons of Rivermond are the highest-ranking leaders of the region, responsible for governing and protecting their respective territories. Each baron is in charge of a specific city or area within Rivermond, and together they answer to the Arch-Baron, who oversees the entire region.

Jordan Rivers is the current Arch-Baron of Barony of Rivermond, having been appointed at a young age following the death of his father, the previous Arch-Baron. Despite his youth, Jordan has quickly gained the respect of the majority of his fellow barons and the people of Rivermond for his strong leadership and compassionate nature. He often seeks counsel from his advisors, including the other barons and priests, but ultimately makes his own decisions based on what he believes is best for the people of Rivermond.

Lucas Kardean is the Baron of Barony of Bellmond, a key city within Rivermond. He is a young and able Knight, with a loyal group of Knights under his command. Lucas is determined to see Rivermond become strong and prosperous once again, and is constantly working to improve the city's infrastructure and economy. He has also made it his mission to root out corruption within Bellmond and ensure that justice is served.

Martin Shores is the Baron of Barony of Greenfield, a city known for its scholars and farmers. He faces a unique set of challenges, as the Dominus Chain has been pushing their faith on his citizens, many of whom have found faith elsewhere. Martin struggles to maintain peace and unity among his people, but he is a capable leader who is dedicated to the well-being of his city.

Oliver Rocks is the Baron of Barony of Redmond and a respected leader within Rivermond. He was a close friend of Jordan's father and is often referred to as the Arch-Baron's uncle. Oliver has a reputation for standing up for the weak and vulnerable, even in the face of opposition from the Dominus Chain. He has often defied their orders and provided aid to refugees fleeing from the Dynasty, earning the admiration and respect of many within Rivermond.

Geography and Culture

Rivermond, situated in the southern territories of the Agera continent, boasts a strategic location with its capital, Rivermond City, positioned at the mouth of the Gylder River. The nation's landscape is characterized by a diverse topography encompassing sprawling coastlines, fertile vineyards, expansive farmlands, and resource-rich mines. Major cities, including Bellmond, Riverend, Redmond, Greenfield, and Windelcrest, contribute to the country's economic and cultural vibrancy. Rivermond's territorial defenses include two pivotal strongholds, Northgate and Eastfort, strategically positioned along the borders of the Silver Dominion and the Khein Dynasty.

Rivermond experiences a varied climate owing to its diverse landscape. The coastal regions maintain a temperate climate, fostering ideal conditions for vineyards and agricultural pursuits. Inland areas boast fertile farmlands, while the presence of mines indicates a diverse geological structure, indicating potential variations in climate across the nation. Rivermond's geographical and resource diversity, coupled with its strategic positioning, underpins its economic prosperity despite its governance under the Silver Dominion. The country's resourceful utilization of its natural assets and strategic trade partnerships facilitates a thriving economy and sustains its rich cultural tapestry.

Culture

The culture of Rivermond is deeply rooted in chivalry, honor, and faith. The people of Rivermond hold their religion in high regard and follow strict rules and intriguing rites of passage. The official faith in Rivermond is The Word (Silver Prince) where the word of The Prince is preached across the land. However, more and more people are turning to The One (God King), following their beliefs of reincarnation and their role in the world. The people of Rivermond are quite spiritual, and their faith has made them proud of their heritage and culture.

The Knights of Rivermond uphold a strong culture of honor and chivalry. They are the protectors of the land and defend it with their lives. They are trained to fight for the glory of Rivermond and hold themselves to a high standard of conduct. The nobility of Rivermond mainly worships the Silver Prince of the Dominion, who is considered the national patron deity. The other deities of the land are respected and worshipped by commoners, and there are groups who worship lesser deities believed to be the children of the Silver Prince. However, this is deemed blasphemy by the Church, and worship of these deities is only mentioned or practiced in secrecy.

Primary Threat

Population Opinion

Magic and the Arcane

Rivermond is a realm where the arcane arts are met with both fascination and trepidation. Wild magic, once a thriving force within the city of Vindrik, now exists in the shadows, whispered about in hushed tones and confined to the grand halls of the Arcane Academy in Greenfield. The Arcane Academy, nestled in the ancient barony of Greenfield, is a bastion of magical knowledge and a sanctuary for those gifted with mystical abilities. The city of Vindrik, once a bustling hub for arcane study and trade, met a tragic fate, reduced to ruins in a catastrophic event lost to the annals of time. Its remnants serve as a haunting reminder of the perils associated with the arcane.

In Rivermond, the populace regards magic with a mixture of suspicion and fear. While tolerated, it is kept isolated, with the Arcane Academy serving as a proud institution for the study of the arcane arts. Traditional knights, upholders of chivalric ideals, steer clear of any association with magic to maintain their knightly image. However, a subtle shift is occurring, as more knights recognize the value of accompanying mages on their journeys, providing them with essential support.

Early Training

Children discovered to possess magical abilities face a unique fate. Often, they are taken by servants of local Barons or Lords to be sent to the Arcane Academy in Greenfield. Yet, a darker underbelly exists, where some families, driven by fear or superstition, opt to kill or deliver these gifted children to the Dominion Church rather than see them sent to another Baron's domain. A peculiar transformation befalls those who return from the Arcane Academy. They are irrevocably changed, bearing the mark of magical education on their beings. Whispers abound that some of the poorest families, desperate for coin, sell their magical offspring to foreign lands—the Khein Dynasty or the Vache Kingdom—a practice shrouded in ethical ambiguity.

Exchange Students and Teachers

Nobles from distant lands recognize the prestige of the Arcane Academy, sending their kin to study within its grand halls. Even seasoned mages, seeking to broaden their understanding, journey to Rivermond to both teach and learn. The Academy stands as a symbol of the universality of magic, drawing seekers from every corner of the world.

Tension with the Church

However, a new chapter unfolds with the encroachment of the Dominion Church into Rivermond's domains. Chapels and posts pepper the landscape, and a sudden decline in magical practices is noted. Whispers gain momentum, alleging that the Church kidnaps those adept in the arcane to bolster its own ranks. Tensions escalate, and the grounds of the Arcane Academy become a battleground of ideologies. Protected by mages, arcane constructs, and allied elementals, the Academy resists the influence of the Church. A delicate dance ensues, a balance between the mythical allure and inherent dangers of magic, played out against the backdrop of Rivermond's ever-shifting political and arcane landscape.