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The Nations
There are six primary nations in the world of Theah and they correlate strongly to the primary powers of Europe in the 17th Century... I'll note what nation corresponds right away so you know what stereotype to work with... The nations are essentially where they would be on a map of Europe. Slightly scaled down and with a fairly different looking geography.
Avalon (Britain, Ireland and Scotland)
The three islands of Avalon, Inismore and the Highland Marches united under Queen Elaine of Avalon. The three have only become a world power in the last decade as they united into an uncertain alliance and defeated the Castillian navy which oppressed them. The Avalons are a proud and stalwart people. The nobility practices the Glamour magic, enchantments tied closely the Sidhe which are numerous on the Isles. There is no standing army, but Avalon sports a decent navy and it is widely understood though never recognized that the "Sea Dogs" are privateers working for Queen Elaine. They are a tough lot and the bain of Montaigne and Castille shipping.
Castille (Spain)
The Castillians are very passionate with extremes in food and music and a culture heavily diversified with influences from across the continent. Over four hundred years ago the capitol of the Vadicine Church moved from Voddace to Castille and as a result Castille is one of the most religious of the powers in Theah. They have a strong College system and an educated people. Recently, however, The Inquisition has taken hold and the colleges essentially seized by them. Very little learning that is not sanctioned by the church is happening at this time. There is no sorcery in the noble bloodline of the Castille, something they are actually quite proud of as the Vatacine considers it a "dark art". Currently Castille is at war with Montaigne who seized a large portion of their land.
Eisen (Germany)
Eisen is a blasted land. Thirty years of the War of the Cross left little unscathed in Eisen. This once proud people have been left with a virtually non-existant economy and government. The country has been split into several kingdoms of sorts which sponsor mercenary bands and the like. The country is over run with bandits and blighted fields barely feed the local populace. The nobles of Eisen have no magic to them, but their Dracheneisen armor is considered such by many... Made from a rare metal found only in Eisen, the armor of the nobility is strong beyond belief and is the only armor still used in the world.
Montaigne (France)
The center of Theah. Montaigne is what other countries strive for culturally. The Montaigne nobility set the styles and latest fassions. Every social gathering reinvents exactly what is in and what is out. Indeed, much of Montaigne's wealth is spent on having the nicest clothes, most inspired art, daring palaces, finest music and enlightened of educations. This is well evidenced by the sharp contrast of the Montaigne peasantry, a poor and downtrodden lot with no hope of ever getting more than what they are born with. But who cares? The Montaigne nobility practice the magic of Porte, literally ripping holes in the fabric of reality and using these openings as doorways to other places... Montaigne has recently conquered much of Castille and the two are currently at war. Their lack of religious interest has only fueled Castille fire for the battle.
Ussura (Russia)
A throwback to years past, the Ussurans live a very primitive life style compared to modern standards. Brutal winters and a general lack of interest in the outside world has left them still wearing animal skins and living in villages, using axes and wooden shields to fight. Ussura has a single ruler, Gaius Ilya, who has recently overcome the previous power of a ruling council. The council still exists, but only to a certain degree... Ussuran nobility uses a primative sort of magic that seems to be drawn straight from the earth. Their ties to animals is well known and it is said they can transform into animals themselves... Ussura is left largely to itself, indeed, they still use a bartering system making them less than useful to outsiders.
Vendel (Norway)
Vendel is almost two separate countries, one on the cutting edge of Thean trade, the other stuck in it's old worlder ways. The Vendel proper left behind their traditionalist cousins the Vestenmannavanjar about a hundred and fifty years ago. Giving up the superstitions and fishing for trade and the desire to become a financial powerhouse. They have succeeded greatly, essentially controlling all trade in Northern Theah and sharing Southern Theah with the Merchant Princes of Vodacce. The Vestenmannavanjar have a significantly different lifestyle. Worshiping ancient gods and practicing the runic magic of their forefathers.
Vodacce (Italy)
Vodacce is a country of great intrigue. Seven powerful families vie for control of trade, wealth and the prestige of being the greatest in Vodacce. The cities are nearly as intricate as the people who dwell in them, built along canals and many stories high with the most extensive networks of catacombs known to Theah below. Some of the most feared magic of Theah is that of the Vodacce Fate Witches. Only women of the noble blood may practice this dark art of curses, blessings and playing with the very fabric of fate itself. Vodacce is a religious country.