> [!infobox] > # ![[Azmarinia.png]] > | | | > |---|---| > | **Type** | Realm | > | **Government** | Magocratic Stratocracy | > | **Judicial** | Strict & Disciplined | > | **Commander** | [[Seraphina Vaelthorne]] | > | **Aliases** | - The Iron Dominion<br>- The Black & Gold<br>- The Arcane Bastion | # Overview Azmarinia is a formal, militaristic region known for its structured society, discipline, and expertise in military operations. While not an oppressive or malicious society, its strict adherence to rules and efficiency makes it feel rigid to outsiders. It values order, loyalty, and precision, with a strong sense of duty ingrained into its people. The region is famous for its military strength, arcane prowess, fine wine, and masterful blacksmithing, producing some of the finest weapons and armor in the known world. The people of Azmarinia predominantly wear black, white, and grey with gold or silver accents, a longstanding tradition whose origins remain uncertain. The [[House of the Weave]], the foremost arcane institution, is based here and works closely with the government, similar to how The [[Guild Masons]] operate in [[Zalfaria]]. # Geography Azmarinia has a mix of mountainous terrain, rolling plains, and fortified cities. The capital, [[Azmarin]], is a massive city of order and discipline, filled with stonework architecture, military institutions, and arcane academies. The region’s cities and towns are highly organized, each having a strategic purpose. The coastal city of [[Port Ely]] is a significant naval hub, responsible for defense and controlled trade. Unlike Zalfaria’s free-trade ports, Azmarinia keeps a tight rein on imports and exports. The largest of the mountain ranges within Azmarinia's territory on the northmost section of the main continent is The [[Imperium Range]]. The smallest mountains, located in the middle of the continent, where [[Ubbin Falls]] is located is referred to as The [[Bastion Peaks]]. [[Ubbin Falls]] however does _not_ show allegiance to Azmarinia, but to Zalfaria. The range running through Azmarinia's continent, to the northeast of the main continent, is called The [[Ironcrest Mountains]]. # Religion Azmarinia is not deeply religious, but it respects divine authority as long as it aligns with law and order. Worship is often structured, ritualistic, and state-approved. The most commonly revered deities include: - [[Zigor]] - [[Aztis]] - [[Vakasis]] - [[Olos]] While divine magic is respected, arcane magic is seen as the true path to power, and the House of the Weave is far more influential than the temples. # Achievements & Contributions Azmarinia is known for military and magical advancements, including: - Elite Military Training – Producing some of the best generals, tacticians, and warriors. - Arcane Innovation – The [[House of the Weave]] has pioneered advanced enchantments and magical weaponry. - Superior Blacksmithing – Producing enchanted arms and armor, renowned across the world. - Infrastructure & City Planning – Cities are highly efficient, with clean streets, organized housing, and fortified walls. # Politics & Government System Azmarinia is a Magocratic Stratocracy—a structured government where military and arcane leaders rule in tandem. ### Ruling Structure: - **The High Commander** – The absolute ruler, chosen from the elite Council of Generals. The position is not hereditary but earned through merit, with the most competent leader selected. - **The Council of Iron** A council composed of influential figures in Azmarinian society, the Council of Iron advises the High Commander and enforces her decrees. It consists of: - **The Grand Strategist** – Head of military operations and war planning. - **The Prime Arcanist** – A high-ranking representative from the House of the Weave who advises on magical affairs. - **The Lord Justicar** – The chief judicial officer, overseeing law enforcement, courts, and public order. - **The Coin Minister** – Oversees trade, taxation, and economic stability. - **The House of the Weave’s Archmages** – While not direct rulers, the four Archmages of the House of the Weave hold considerable political influence and advise the Council. ### Political Culture: Azmarinia values discipline, hierarchy, and efficiency. Leadership is earned, not inherited, and corruption is rare but dealt with swiftly and severely. Unlike Zalfaria’s oligarchy, power in Azmarinia is more structured and merit-based. ### Judicial System Azmarinia’s legal system is strict, fair, and unwavering, designed to uphold order and discipline. Justice is swift and public, with little tolerance for crime. - **The Tribunal of Order** – A panel of military judges decides cases based on established laws. Trials are formal, structured, and efficient. - **The [[Fists of the Quiver]]** – Enforcers of justice, they act as judges, interrogators, and executioners, ensuring laws are upheld. The elite interrogators, known as Arrows, handle the most severe crimes. - **Public Sentencing** – Punishments range from fines, military service, exile, or execution, depending on the crime. Public executions serve as a warning against lawlessness. - **Magic-Enforced Law** – Enchanted contracts, Zone of Truth trials, and arcane tracking methods ensure honesty in court. Bribery and corruption are rare but met with severe consequences. # Economy & Trade Azmarinia operates a controlled economy, prioritizing military production, arcane research, and structured trade. Unlike the free-market chaos of Zalfaria, Azmarinia regulates trade carefully. ### Exports: - Enchanted weapons & armor – Coveted by warriors and mercenaries. - Fine wine – A rare luxury, exported selectively. - Blacksteel & Arcane-forged metals – Unique alloys used in magical crafting. - Strategic Mercenary Contracts – Elite warriors and spellcasters are occasionally leased to other nations. ### Imports: - Rare magical components – Sourced from various regions. - Exotic goods – Spices, textiles, and luxuries from [[Zalfaria]] and [[Kaldia]]. - Raw materials – Timber, precious metals, and alchemical reagents from [[Zalfaria]]. Unlike Zalfaria’s free-flowing merchant economy, Azmarinia carefully manages its trade to ensure stability. # Society & Culture Azmarinia’s social structure is hierarchical, emphasizing discipline, duty, and efficiency. ### Social Order: - Military & Arcane Elites – Those who serve in the military or The [[House of the Weave]] hold the most prestige. - Craftsmen & Artisans – Blacksmiths, enchanters, and skilled laborers are highly respected. - Common Citizens – Farmers, merchants, and laborers maintain the foundation of society. - Criminals & Outcasts – Lawbreakers face exile or forced military service. ### Cultural Aspects: - Fashion – Predominantly black, white, and grey with gold or silver accents. This tradition reflects their militaristic and formal nature. - Education – Highly structured; children are trained in discipline, strategy, and basic combat. Arcane education is available for those with aptitude. - Entertainment – Gladiatorial combat, tactical war games, and arcane duels are popular. While Azmarinia lacks the vibrancy of Zalfaria, its people take pride in their strength, discipline, and order.