Gorias

Gorias

Overview: Gorias is a land of disparate elements, northeast of Alastir and Dagda and south of Bolshoi. The country is composed of squabbling city-states whose cultural links are just strong enough to allow for councils and pacts which provide for a common defense and national identity. Gorias combines gradually shifting terrains and climates under one national banner. The country was hit especially hard during the Goblin Wars and is still rebuilding much of its infrastructure.

Land: The makeup in the land ranges from mountains and hills in the west to level farmland in the east, and from hard, cold winters in the north to relatively mild weather in the south. The region contains little dense forest land; the eastern territories are good for raising sheep and grain.

Culture: Gorian culture is almost defined by its variety; some of the city-states rely on mining, some on husbandry, and some on the raising of grain. Much of their shared national identity is contrived, a means to band them together to protect them from external threats and lessen the internal squabbling which leads to widespread poverty and destabilization. One of the major Goblin Lords arose out of Gorias, and a great deal of the nations patriotism and internal cooperation was forged as a means of vanquishing his hordes. The Krennik who maintain undermountain cities along the western border were instrumental in preventing the spread of the goblin armies into Dagda and Alastir. Although Gorias has always had as strong a martial tradition as most other countries, the Goblin Wars served to galvanize this element in their culture. Many Gorian men, and not a few women, have served a period of military service and have at least passing familiarity with military arts. Most Gorians wear tunics, which vary widely in style and design due to culture and climate. Men also wear breeches and often identify their guild membership and family line through the use of badges and belts, and are usually bearded.

Language: Most Gorians speak Coda regardless of their race, although the native Tyrvani are very proud of their native language.

Races: Humans make up most of the population of Gorias, with Tyrvani a close second. Krennik clans have firm hold over the most mineral-rich segments of the western mountains, but are open to trade and negotiation with the surface-dwelling races. A few Azar, mostly prosperous artists, mages, and academics, reside in the largest cities. Other races have only a token presence in the region.

Religion: Benlak, Orlak, Olpharan, and Karog are the regions most popular deities. Farmers in the eastern regions often worship Melfora.

Capitol: Pronoian