Omens In Ashes

Overview

Despite its geographical size, Renmere is one of the more densely populated continents, ruled by a King and Queen, and governed by the Dukes and Duchesses of each of its seven regions, Andaris, the capital, Venora, Warrick, Krome, Burhan, Gwayne, and Endor. It is a rather peaceful nation with a high military count. Renmere is also tolerant of most of the different races, and has become a real melting pot in Lowtown, located in the capital city of Andaris.

Compared to the rest of Noar, places such as Nejem, Emnays, and Clead, Renmere is a relatively young nation, with just over five hundred years of history.

History

Renmere was discovered and settled around the year M1288 and almost twenty generations of the royal family have held the throne since that time. It goes without saying that the crown has often been challenged and the land ransacked, which led to the building of an army of which the likes of Noar has never seen before. Knights, Skyriders, and Sailors patrol land, air, and sea day and night to ensure that the city remains unchallenged, as it has since their founding just over five hundred years ago. Of course, Renmere has always had knights, a profession held and continued by the first men and women that ever reached these shores, but the addition of Sailors, and especially Skyriders is still in its infancy.

The city itself was built up around a large, mountain of earth, which the people of Renmere cut to fill in the gaps around the great expanse of stone walls they erected within the first fifty years of construction. Two large moats complete the work of art. On the top level behind the third set of walls a small passenger ferry sails between the castle and the temple, zipping the royal family and their guests, or guards back and forth. Since its completion in ---, no outside forces have been able to penetrate the city walls. The location of Andaris City was skilfully planned out by Lord Andaris, his War General, Warrick, and his guide Gwayne, to sit high enough to see to the shore and a vast stretch of the surrounding land either side, but also to keep it far enough from the beach, avoiding direct attack from the sea.

Andaris has seen war, hardship, and lived on the edge of starvation throughout its construction, but today it is home to many different races who all reside in collective peace under one banner and one religion. The city’s laws and military help maintain the peace and the walls that make it possible. Andaris is a vibrant place to live, providing warmth, food, education, shelter, and protection to those who seek it. After one year of living in Andaris, people can apply for residency as long as they have committed no crimes during such time. Residents are able to complete in the annual games, attend the prestigious university, join the army, and start and run their own businesses. Renmere is a land of opportunity for those who wish to make the most of it.

Timeline

M1288 Renmere is discovered by a group of men and women numbering some 150 strong.
Construction of Andaris City begins.
M1292 Fort Venora and fort Warrick are established.
M1293 Krome is established.
M1294 Work on the walls begins.
What little progress the people of Renmere have made on the city is near destroyed by attackers who have sailed from distant lands.
M1302 Fort Gwayne is established.
M1306 Fort Burhan and Endor are established.
M1311 Lord Commander Verne Andaris dies from his wounds a mere season after a successful campaign to kill or enslave any who linger unwelcome in the Kingdom of Renmere. The same year, his daughter, Nora is made the first Queen of Renmere.
M1319 The Creed of Silence is discovered.
M1408 Construction of the three walls is complete.
M1414 The construction of Andar castle is finally finished.
M1416 Work on the city Temple begins.
The city is attacked by foreigners who sailed up the river to Lake Krome.
A peace bargain is struck with the attacks and broken eleven days later. The people of Krome burn the foreigners ships and reinforcements from Warrick take a trail through the Burning Mountains to flank what remains of their forces.
M1501 A pass from Nora’s Rest all the way to Warren’s Peak is discovered.
Watchtowers along the Burning Mountains are constructed to alert distant establishments to the sightings of foreign ships on either coast.
M1578 The City of Andaris is attacked and the Prince is taken hostage.
M1579 The Prince is beheaded by his captors and war erupts within the city again.
M1582 The city is finally reclaimed after a war that lasted almost four years.
M1583 Work on the city moat begins.
M1587 The moat is finally complete and water is redirected from the sea across land to fill it.
City plumbing redirects waste from the city to the moat. The health benefits are quickly recognised.
M1604 Plans to build Fighting Pits and a Grand Arena are submitted to the Royals, work begins the following year.
Work on the Fighting Arena is finally complete and games are held in celebration of what will now be an annual event to find The King’s Champion. Many slaves meet their end in the arena.
M1609 Year of the first Jacadon rider since Verne Andaris. The woman's name is Skye Verath.
M1678 Darcy Andaris becomes the first king to ever fight in the arena.
Fights break out in the streets after Craig Luther is named King of Renmere. After years of the title belonging to those of the Andaris line, people are not happy to see the title of king handed over to a stranger and buildings are burnt to the ground in protest.
William Luther, the younger brother of King Owen Luther, was killed after an attempt on the king’s life was made in the city marketplace. William moved to protect his brother Owen and was struck through the neck by an arrow with a golden arrowhead.
M1706 The University is constructed.
M1753 Two rebel leaders of the Soothsayers faction are captured, stoned, and hung after being discovered standing over the body of one of the King’s Knights.
M1787 The king and queen’s ship is attacked by pirates and sunk out at sea, leaving their only living son, Cassander, to rule in their place.
M1792 Cassander is made the new king.
K8 Cassander marries a temple maid and is forced to step down from power.
K9 Atler Krome is made the new king until his Grandson Marcus Kromes comes of age.

Legend

The world had burned and from the ashes, the survivors crept forth, starving and blinking at the dawn of a new world. Noar was young again but a fresh start only meant more bloodshed. Tribes and villages were formed, followed by towns, and later cities until the age of men seemed to thrive once more. An adventurous young man by the name of Verne Andaris, Lord Commander of The First Shields, set sail with his young wife Cynere Venora from where historians believe was the far west unexplored icy lands of Noar, on a ship built by his childhood friend Rahiko Burhan. During their endeavor to find and settle new land to escape the chaos of the new world, Andaris led a small army of men and women on a voyage that many believed would be the death of them.

Excerpt from the journal of H. Warrick.
“Our gracious captain points us north this eve after picking up a stranger from the eastern shores of Noar. Gwayne, The Half God, some of the men have deemed him, was found wandering along the beach by one of our hunting parties. Andaris has dubbed him Warren, of the shore people, for he tells tales of the earth and great beasts that dwell in the belly of the world. I worry for my friend’s sanity, for Andaris has always been a dreamer, and tonight we look to the sky, chasing this stranger’s fables, searching for a giant Jacadon named Renmere, lost pet of the gods.”

Andaris and his fleet sailed along the west coast of Nejem, following the Scar in the Sky further and further north until they found the nest of the Jacadon, a floating island hidden above a wall of mist, far from the reach of their ship masts and arrows. Renmere was nowhere to be seen, and after three days and nights of wild weather, their boats were forced to dock on the rough east coast of a nearby wasteland, tucked away in a bay behind a small island that sheltered them from the storm.

While exploring the strange shore and hunting to ensure that the army was fed, the earth shook and the sea roared, and from the depths the Jacadon emerged to lay waste to their ships with but a swing of his massive tail. Andaris and his wardens raced to the beach with their hooks and spears to face the beast. Of their fleet only one ship remained which Andaris and his brave crew sailed under the cloak of the island’s shadow and out to sea where the Jacadon slivered through the water like a serpent, only the points of his jagged spine, as big as mountains, in view.

Excerpt from the journal of H. Warrick.
“There were bodies everywhere, the sea was a mess of blood and the mangled remains of our troops. We pulled a young man aboard who had lost one of his arms, I’ve never seen so much blood. The beast rose up out of the sea and blocked out the sun, slamming into the tide where a great torrent of water almost capsized our vessel. We fired at Renmere with our crossbows and spears, but it was Andaris who brought the serpent down, blinding the creature with a gem he wore around his neck, which saw it crash into the floating isle and fall from the sky to rest in the sea. Shards of broken rock rained from the sky and pierced the heart of the Jacadon, and we watched as the beast coiled about his death, groaned, and turned to stone.”

The remains of the floating island became Sunset Isle, the one and only place Jacadon go to breed, and still to this day call the Isle home, raising their young and protecting the sacred stretch of land with their lives. Every year, keen hopefuls from all across Renmere flock to the island in the hopes of bonding with a Jacadon, though few are ever successful. The Jacadon will only accept those with a spirited soul, who are brave and true of heart, like Verne Andaris, who is rumoured to be the very first Jacadon rider in all of Noar. Today, Jacadon riders are called Blazers, fearless men and women that work for The Order of The Sacred Seven, better known as The Iron Hand.

The Capital

Andaris has remained the capital of Renmere since its founding. Located a day’s ride from the ports, the city was tactically built inland to avoid attacks from the sea. The roads to Andaris from the ports are well built and maintained with local metal and unrefined lime deposits taken from coastal quarries, making travel faster.

The city is divided into three sections. Lowtown makes up the base and first wall of defence. Here is where the majority of the people live, most of them poor. It is also the biggest trade hub in the south, with many people making the trip to Water Street to trade at the local markets. Water Street was once a moat that ringed the city before the walls of Andaris were expanded and the maot was drained.

The second tier of the city is Midtown. Many of the most wealthy members of society call Midtown home, usually men and women of title, higher-education, and class.

The third and final tier, located above the other two, is the Crown, where the royal family resides in a stone castle, known to most as Andar Castle. Walled off from the rest of the city, security here is high, and no one is allowed to come or go without explicit permission.

Andaris City is the capital of Renmere Kingdom. The Kingdom is made up of seven regions named after the knights that first fought for and established lives for themselves on Renmere. These regions are overseen by Dukes who are in charge of settling disputes, raising armies for the king, and seeing to it that there is no trouble within the kingdom. Within the Kingdom of Renmere, everyone pays taxes to the king to ensure that their region is well cared for with knights, skyriders, and navy patrols, supplies via trade, roads, and land which the people are able to farm.

Each region is famous for something unique.

Andaris, named after Ser Verne Andaris, Lord Commander of The First Shields, is the home of King Vaughn Krome and his Queen, Lazuli Krome (nee Warrick), who live in Andar Castle at the centre of Andaris City. The Capital is famed for its deep water port in Cyrene Bay, which is able to host a large fleet of naval, passenger, and trade ships. It has been said that the city of Andaris is one of the trade capitals of Noar, and closely protects the waters surrounding Renmere.

Travel & Villages


Venora: As a knight and famed wife of Lord Commander, Ser Verne Andaris, Lady Cyrene Venora was the first woman to ever receive a knighthood in Renmere. The Venoran earth is very fertile and every Season of Harvest the people of Venora are blessed with a wealth of crops, including but not limited to, sweet corn, potatoes, beans, barley, broccoli, wheat, carrots, peanuts, asparagus, and pumpkin. They also gather harvests from a variety of vines and trees, including grapes, passion fruit, black pepper, walnut, cherry, elderberry, lingonberry, apple, and plum.

Warrick: Henry Warrick was a famous War General that settled the southwest of Renmere from the Burning Mountains to the end of the River Kyo. He slayed the giant known as Kaiba, who had ruled the land before him and forged a pass through the Burning Mountains now named Hunter’s Pass. Today Warrick is a peaceful region famed for its flat rolling plains and the well known Sunset Isle off the west coast. The best horses in all of Renmere are bred here and are considered lucky mounts to ride into battle, Garado, Warrick’s first stallion was said to have sprung from a rib bone that he pulled away from the defeated giant, Kaiba.

Burhan: The people of Burhan are the best shipwrights in all of Noar, their skill made all the more impressive due to the region being landlocked. It does, however, provide the realm with some of the finest timber in the north, being the most densely populated woodlands in all of Renmere. Rahiko Burhan designed and built the ship that first sailed to Renmere carrying Verne Andaris and his knights to the north shore. The shipwrights use the rivers to transport logs and partially constructed ships to the lake, and later out into the sea, towed by large river serpents called Ferafee.

Krome: Gerrard Krome was a treasure hunter before joining The First Shields under the command of Ser Verne Andaris. He retired as a wealthy man said to have married three wives who bore him many sons. He commissioned a large ship to be built on the lake that he lived in right up into old age, filling the hull with his treasures and keepsakes until one night the boat sank unexpectedly. Some say the vessel was so weighed down with gold that its belly blew out and spewed treasure down into the depths of the lake before going down with Gerrard and his three wives aboard. Krome is a small fishing and hunting community, making use of both the lake and the sea. The people of Krome are said to be sharp of mind and tight of pocket, known for its artists and philosophers. Most of the teachers working for Andaris university originate from the settlement in Krome.

Gwayne: The North was once considered a frozen wasteland before Warren Gwayne set down his flag and claimed the region of Gwayne for himself. He showed his followers how to tame even the harshest of environments, and to this day, the outpost in Gwayne still thrives. Gwayne mysteriously went missing after a routine visit to underground pass through Warren’s Peak to Nora’s Rest. Some believe he became lost in the labyrinth, leaving his life’s work, The Creed of Silence to be discovered in his absence.

Endor: Famed weaponsmiths, Oron Endor settled on the far northwest part of Renmere at the northernmost point of The Burning Mountains, which are rich with iron and other precious metals. From Norr Bay, the people of Endor send trade ships to the city of Andaris that supply the King’s Knights with weapons, metals, and tools.


Key

1 square = 1 day by horse, 2 days by foot or wagon, half a day by air, and ⅓ of a day by sea.

Andaris to Venora
Horse: 4 days
Foot/Wagon: 8 days
Flight: 2 days
Ship: N/A
Andaris to Warrick
Horse: 14 days
Foot/Wagon: 28 days
Flight: 7 days
Ship: 8 days
Andaris to Burhan
Horse: N/A
Foot/Wagon: N/A
Flight: 6 days
Ship: 12 days
Andaris to Krome
Horse: 12 days
Foot/Wagon: 22 days
Flight: 6 days
Ship: 7 days
Andaris to Gwayne
Horse: 22 days
Foot: or wagon 44 days
Flight: 11 days
Ship: N/A
Andaris to Endor
Horse: 23 days via Warrick and 32 days via Gwayne
Foot/Wagon: 46 days via Warrick and 64 days via Gwayne
Flight: 10 days
Ship: 14 days

Settlements & Titles


Mayce: Tucked away in the Burning Mountains, Mayce is a small settlement of just over eighty people during warmer seasons that shrinks down to about twenty in winter. Owned and founded by the Duke of Krome, the land was gifted to him for his years of service to the Iron Hand. Once an old battle fort, the land and buildings are slowly being restored to their former glory, with new buildings going up every year. A seven bedroom tower, nicknamed The Keep, sits at one end of the valley, overlooking the single entry point to this flourishing village.

Most of the people who call Mayce home are devout followers of the Lord, better known in some circles as the Wolf of Krome. Black banners depicting a white wolf fly atop the keep and entry gates, allowing none to mistake who lives there.

Geography

From the grassy plains of Warrick, to the dense forest of Krome and the Burning Mountains that fringe four of the seven regions, Renmere is a wild, untamed landscape that goes from one extreme to the other in a matter of days on horseback. Mild weather in the south is contrasted by freezing temperatures in the north. Wood, stones and precious metals are abundant, making Renmere ripe for the picking. It is a land of opportunity, capable of making those with a pioneering spirit, very wealthy.

Climate

Located in the north of Noar, Renmere experiences long summers and devastatingly cold, but rather short, winters. The country is divided by a mountain range, better known as The Burning Mountains. North of the mountains, the climate is far cooler than in the south, where temperatures are much more mild, ideal for growing crops. Most fruit trees, however, are grown in both the north and south, making its necessary to keep trade routes open all year.

Andaris: Being one of the largest and oldest cities in the east, Andaris relies on its farming community and trade system to keep things running smoothly. The city keeps a large store of grain and it is said that the explorers of Andaris have collected samples from all types of fruits, vegetables, trees, rocks, precious metals, and animals to keep stored in their research facility under the university. The city experiences mild snowstorms each year and a thick cover of fog often lingers across the land during the season of Frost, but summers are warm and pleasant with lots of work to be done. The season of Bloom is a time of celebration, just as it is in the region of Warrick, as it is often during this season that the rains come, filling up the city moat and revitalising the land.

Venora: Known for its rich, fertile farmlands and sunny vineyards, Venora’s is one of the biggest outposts in all of Renmere. Winters here are mild with the odd frost from time to time and enough rain to see that the region is green all year round. Summers seem to go on forever, warm and inviting. It's no wonder people from all over Renmere flock here during the warmer seasons to celebrate Nora’s birthday and make the most of the fine weather. Bloom is a busy time of year with a lot of Venora's farmers spending time planting their crops and selling the leftovers of the winter stores to other regions. In Frost, most of the trees and vines are cut back, ensuring that they will grow bigger and better the following year.

Warrick: Warrick sees little to no snow in the winter, though the sandy West Coast tends to get battered by the sea and rain. In the summer, the lush, green grass on the plain turns gold, and the strange Wickon Trees, found only in this region of Renmere and the world of Noar, lose their small, pointed leaves in trade of a large blue fruit (similar to a persimmon). Bloom is kind in Warrick, with lots of new life and celebration. The region grows many different types of fruit trees on the lower southeast part of the map which spread out all the way into the neighbouring region of Venora. The warmer climate in the south of Renmere makes Warrick the perfect region to raise livestock and live off the land.

Burhan: Situated in the centre of Renmere, Burhan hosts the largest density of woodlands in the whole Kingdom. It is bordered by swamps along its northernmost ridge, and walled off by mountains and the river Avari in the south. Burhan sees plenty of snow and frost in winter, when most of their trade focus switches from wood to caribou or moose hide and meat. Most of the buildings in Burhan are made from logs, with the majority of the wood cabins situated in the south near the fort and Avari River, which are heavily fished during the cold winter season of Frost. Summers are unbearably humid, as too is the season of Harvest. It takes a person strong of will with well honed survival skills to succeed in Burhan, as it is accessible by no roads and completely self reliant.

Krome: Windswept and beautiful, the region of Krome is battered by the sea in the north and graced by the most stunning lake and rivers in the south. Winters in Krome are cold, wet, and snowy, but being the trade capital of fur, the people of Krome have adapted to the unpredictable seasons. Bloom is mild and usually sees a lot of rain, and summers are warm but windy. The North Coast is rocky, hence the shipwrecks in Pathos Bay, and the East Coast is very akin to the pebble like stones found in Endor, later blending into long sandy beaches further south close to Zor River. During the height of winter, most of Lake Krom freezes over, putting a halt to Burhan’s river trade.

Gwayne: As the northernmost region, Gwayne gets a lot of snow, frost, and fog in the winter and, unlike The Burning Mountains, Warren’s Peak is snow capped all year round. The northern coast is rocky with jagged rocks like Jacadon’s teeth rising up out of the sea, making it impossible to dock a ship nearby. All trade is sent by horse and cart, and in the winter when the ground is too thick with snow to get horses in, Skyriders traveling by Volareon fly to the city in order to deliver food supplies and take away exports of unique stone and leather from the outpost. The season of Bloom is cold, wet, and frosty, and the summers are mild with just enough heat to grow spinach, carrots and radishes.

Endor: Endor, best known for its fishing and metal, is a rugged, harsh environment, suited only to those hard of heart. What land isn't counted as mountain range tends to be rocky, growing little grass, only suited to goats. Winter sees a lot of heavy snowfall like the neighbouring regions of Gwayne and Krome, but the people are able to keep warm in their mountain dwellings, carved into the rock, many metres deep. Summers are warmer than Gwayne but not quite as kind as Krome, with heat being trapped by the mountains, or rising up from the thermal pools. The coastline is rough, targeted by many pirates for the precious metals to be found within the mines, but Norr Bay is made up of a fine, pebbly rock, smooth underfoot, but soft in areas. Bloom is unpredictable, blowing warm one year and cold the next. Houses are kept warm by burning a fire pit in the middle of the living area with underfloor ventilation that sucks heat up through the walls and traps it, warning the area throughout.

Surroundings

Renmere is a small continent (about the size of England), with no surrounding settlements. It is located in the far north of Noar, west of unexplored lands to the east.

Maps & Landmarks


Cyrene Bay: Named after Lady Cyrene Venora, is the biggest deep water cove in Renmere and sees a lot of boat traffic, especially during the warmer seasons. Though the bay was named after Verne’s wife, the bay is located closer to Andaris City than it is to Venora’s outpost. Many people work on the ports within the bay and the fishing is always good. As Cynere Bay is one of the busiest ports in all of Renmere, it is heavily patrolled and sees very few smugglers, bandits, crooks, thieves, or pirates, who tend to sail further north to Krome in order to seek their fortunes.

The White Well: Is a deep water trench formed at the foot of The Burning Mountains, and forms the beginning of the Avari River. Some believe this place is surrounded by a strange sort of magic (Wild Esen), and say that the mist which rises from the well is accountable for all of the peculiar things that take place in the Vanwilds, the forest surrounding Burhan.

Hunter’s Pass: Legend says that Henry Warrick, the first true man to be called Hunter, slayed a giant and with one strike of his mighty axe. He lobbed the beast’s head clean off, creating Hunter’s Pass where the giant’s body fell between two mountain and paved the way for a road to be set down. This, however, is merely a legend. In truth, the Pass was created by the efforts of many Nehren throughout the years, as directed by the first Hunter. Nowadays, the crooks and bandits of Renmere gather in this dark place to plot and plan their wicked deeds. Caution to any innocent intending to go near.

Iron Mines: The Iron Mines in Endor produce over seventy percent of Renmere’s precious metals, stones, and gems. They provide jobs for the majority of the population in the region and make the kingdom a lot of money in exports. Most of the iron is processed into blocks that fit together for easy storage on ships and is often sent to Andaris where it is turned into tools, weapons, and other assorted items before being shipped overseas for sale. Prisoners and slaves make up almost half of the workforce in the Iron Mines, sent to the region from all across Renmere for various punishments and lengths of service. Slaves earn only half the wage that a miner makes in a season and are still expected to pay taxes to the king. It's hard, backbreaking work, but someone has to do it.

Kyo River: Water flows down from The Burning Mountains through underground pathways and gushes from a cliff face in the heart of the Warrick region, forming a deep pool that has helped carve the Kyo River, which runs south through Warrick all the way to the ocean. Every year salmon swim up the Kyo River for spawning, which attracts bears from all across the countryside. Seals also make use of the pool, swimming up river with their young, treating the pool like a nursery while they go out on long trips to sea in search of fish. Farmers draw the fresh water away from the river for their crops and livestock often line the banks to drink from the sweet, clear spring water.

Widow's Point: Legend has it that Widow’s Point is haunted by the ghost of a woman from Venora, the wife of a sailor who went to war. She waited for him at the top of what is now known as Widow’s Point, watching for the masts of his ship to return alone the horizon. It’s said that when the ship didn’t return, the woman threw herself off of Widow’s Point and fell to the jagged rocks below. Now, if you listen closely, you’ll hear the widow’s wail over the wind that blows through the waves of Widow’s Point. On a clear night, when the moon is full, one may even see her, still watching for her lost love.

The sound of wailing comes from the wind and surf blowing through the dozens of little caves and rock formations at the bottom of the cliff. There have been numerous suicides off of Widow’s Point, but the one that inspired this myth and the cliff’s name occurred some time during a Frost almost four hundred years ago. Although it is not known if the unnamed woman who leapt to her death was the bride of a sailor.

Avari River: A waterway that has been used to transport logs down into Krome Lake from Burhan for as long as the people of Renmere can remember. As Renmere’s biggest supplier of timber, Burhan has laid claim to the river with little dispute from any of the surrounding regions. During the season of Frost the river runs a lot higher and faster than normal with all the rain and snow over the Burning Mountains being channeled down into the River Avari, causing it to break its banks from time to time. Some say that the river is a good place to pan for gold they believe washes down from the mountains, lining Krome’s lakebed with flakes of gold dust.

Zor River: A river shared by Krome and Andaris, its water is used to keep a lot of the region's crops alive during the season of Blaze, when the ground tends to dry out and even crack in some extreme cases. The river was named after Gerrard Krome’s first son, Zor, and has kept the name ever since. Every year salmon swim up the river from the sea into Lake Krome to spawn which attracts local fishermen and wildlife from all across the two neighbouring regions.

Nora’s Rest: Nora was the one and only child of Verne Andaris and Cyrene Venora. On the morning of her death, at the young age of twenty-two, the people of Andaris chose to build a shrine at the foot of the tallest mountain in Renmere which later came to be known as Nora’s Rest. It is considered a holy place and each year on Nora’s birthday, 33 Harvest, the people of Renmere gather at the foot of the mountain to partake in an age old ritual. They say the caves leading into Nora’s Rest tunnel all the way to Warren’s Peak and that somewhere beneath the realms of Burhan, Endor, and Gwayne is a lost labyrinth that was built by a race of men that have long since passed. Explorers have gone looking for the labyrinth countless times but say the caves are too deep and dangerous to explore further. Not everyone shares the same belief, however, as some believe the labyrinth is really the belly of the giant Jacadon Renmere, brought down by The First Shields.

Nora’s Ritual is an excuse for most to take a day off work once a year in favour of climbing up into the high set vineyards on the south side of the mountain, which people climb in droves following a decorated black bull that is painted with white markings and sacrificed so that the next growing season may be blessed. This is not the only ritual that takes place, as in recent years it has come to light that an underground group of sorcerers called ‘The Soothsayers’ partake in their own dark ritual, sacrificing a young woman Nora’s age that a necromancer then brings back to life for a few short moments, believing Nora’s ghost inhabits the host and shares a vision regarding further events with the group.

The Lost Labyrinth: When a Jacadon dies it turns to stone, which has led people to believe that the labyrinth is really the ‘Guts of Renmere’, the stony innards of the mighty beast defeated by the Sacred Seven. It was found by a lone explorer who wrote about his discovery over several books, documenting what he saw and found during his time exploring the twists and turns of the Labyrinth, which he believed to be located somewhere beneath the region of Burhan. Many have gone looking for the tunnels leading to the Labyrinth via Nora’s Rest and Warren’s Peak, but there have been no successful discoveries since, leading most to believe that the myth of The Lost Labyrinth is little more than a fairytale.

Sunset Isle: The Sunset Isle is the only known Jacadon breeding site in all of Noar. Each year a mating pair will protect one egg, taking turns to keep the nest warm until their young hatch. Each egg contains two Jacadon twins, one male and one female that fight to the death upon hatching. The victor is raised by both parents, who fish in the sea in order to gather enough food for the young Jacadon to grow strong enough to learn to fly before the winter.

The isle is tall with sharp, jagged cliffs that deter most other predators from climbing up to the nesting grounds, though every year hopeful Skyriders from across Renmere scale the walls in order to try and form a bond with a young Jacadon in the hope of becoming a Blazer, the highest honour bestowed to Renmere’s Skyriders. Jagged rocks make the climb almost impossible for most, but the flat, soft sands of the nesting grounds are a welcome relief to any that do. Though they might not feel so welcome standing face to face with an adult Jacadon or breeding pair, who are said to be some of the most protective parents in the animal kingdom.

The Burning Mountains: The legends say that a giant Jacadon who once ruled the sky crashed into the sea and fell into a deep sleep, later becoming the body of land the people now called Renmere. The Jacadon was so hot that even during the coldest parts of Harvest and Frost, no snow is able to settle upon the scorching earth of The Burning Mountains, or as the people know it, Renmere’s Backbone.

Norr Bay: The trading base for Endor, a large outpost built of blood, sweat and iron. The men and women of Endor have constructed a large stone wall they call the Gate to the South, which stretches from the outpost near the bay, all the way to the northernmost point of The Burning Mountains. As Endor is rich with natural resources, it is often targeted by pirates, crooks, and thieves, willing to risk life and limb to fetch what they desire. The wall has helped to counter these invasions and is patrolled at all times by the men and women of the King’s Knights.

Warren’s Peak: The air is slightly thinner up here and the wind blows cold off the northern sea, chilling a man to the bones. Only the hardest of people take on the lifelong challenge of taming a patch of earth for themselves in Gwayne. Warren’s Peak is well known for its deep, winding caves and hot spring pools, nestled within the mountain which is more often than not dressed with snow all year round. It is said that Warren disappeared after a routine trip to the caves, and even hundreds of years later, no body, bones, or items have been found that might give some insight as to his bizarre disappearance.

Pathos Bay: The sea is rough and unpredictable along the northern coast of Renmere, and many a ship has washed ashore over the years, claiming countless lives. Here there is a dangerous sandbar that only seafaring experts have ever been able to navigate safely, but it is the rocks closer to shore, hidden beneath the waves that see most pirates, sailors, and explorers steer clear of the area. Every now and then the people of Krome have reported seeing Merfolk playing in the shallow mer-pools during the warmer summer seasons, but other than the odd fishmen, Pathos Bay has very little to offer.

Lake Krome: The biggest body of water in the kingdom, Lake Krome has been dubbed ‘The Eye of The Jacadon’ and is said to be the final resting place of Gerrard Krome who lived on a ship in the middle of the lake. It is rumoured that when the ship sank, it took all of Krome’s fortune to the bottom of the lake with it.

Coastline

Andaris Coast: The Andaris coast is wild and beautiful, white-capped and unpredictable. This body of water between Renmere east and the land beyond is called The Eastern Trench and divides Renmere from its settlements in the Western Region of Noar. The water here moves quickly and hidden dangers make it impossible for novice and even some competent sailors to navigate. Cool water from the north mixes with warmer waters from the south forming whirlpools that erode deep underground hollows on the seabed which have formed a vast cave system the Merfolk like to live in.

Andaris Caves: The coastline is littered with caves big enough to hide anything from a schooner to a flight of dragons, and wild creatures have been known to gather here. It is common to find old shipwrecks scattered along the short stretches of white sandy beaches dotted between the caves, and travellers should be wary of pirates and thieves. Faction VII have been known to erect makeshift hideouts in the caves when trying to smuggle goods in and out of the country, and though there is a strong presence of knights and skyriders on patrol a lot of the time, it is impossible for them to check every cave.

Venora Coast: The sunny south of Renmere attracts visitors from right across the country, especially during the warmer seasons of Harvest and Blaze. The coast is known for its high cliffs, long sandy stretches of beach fronts, and calm tides. Cyrene Bay often sees a lot of trade ships moving back and forth along the horizon and families enjoy watching from the cliff tops as the tall ships sail along the coast avoiding the moving sandbars. Merfolk come and go but prefer the rockier coasts of Gwayne, Krome, and Andaris. Of all of the beaches, Venora has been voted the safest for swimming.

Warrick South Coast: The lonely shores of Warrick are often plagued by pirate attacks where cattle are stolen from the farms dotted along the shore. The coast is patrolled by Skyriders during the warmer seasons, but during Frost and Bloom, the dragons seek out warmer climates and tend to stay closer to the Burning Mountains. Of all of the beaches in Renmere, Warrick is most prone to an invasion, but with the biggest military force in Renmere, and the village situated so far from the shore, the rest of Renmere is quietly confident that the region can support itself.

Warrick West Coast: West of the Burning Mountains and the Stone Forest lies the steep cliffs of the Western Rim. The cliffs here are impossible to climb and though the sea is very calm in these parts, pirates have given up on forging a route through the dense forests and high mountains. Jacadon and Volareon young come here to learn to fly, throwing themselves from the tops of the cliffs to spread their wings and make the most of the warm air that circulates through the deep caverns. An old family of Merfolk call the aqua coloured water home.

Endor Coast: Dark, dingy Endor isn’t for the faint hearted, and the year round cold weather is only appealing to those who have lived here for generations. The seawater is too cold to swim in, and the rocks are impossible to traverse without appropriate footwear. A dangerous clan of Merfolk call these waters home and don’t take kindly to trespassers or locals. Smaller ships have been warned to stay clear as the Keel-Saw-Sea-Dragon has also been known to visit. The seawater is black and difficult to see in when diving even with the help of firelight shone against the surface.

Gwayne Coast: The coast is littered with tall, jiggered rocks that stick up out of the sea like giant shark fins. No one sails off the coast of Gwayne, as the only way ashore is in a small canoe or rowboats. The weather here is unpredictable and often rainy. The Merfolk here are very welcoming, unlike their neighbours in Endor. It is said that Henry Warrick’s youngest son fell in love with a Mer that he met while travelling around the Gwayne coast, though others have debated that she was from the south. The rocky shore protects the Wise Wood, known for its sturdiness and quality by shipwrights across Naor.

Krome Coast: The white cliffs of Krome and rocky shore can often make one feel as if they have travelled to the edge of the world. The dense surrounding forests are difficult to cut a path through, and the trees here tend to grow back at an alarming rate. Some say it has something to do with the Wisps that haunt the woods, believed to channel their collective energy into seeing the forest thrive. The tides here are calm one day and wild the next, with high waves crashing against the white walls. People have tried and failed to build docks along the coast with little success.

Krome Caves: Dark caves tunnel into the shore as deep as one hundred metres in some places and though explorers have only been able to map these caves during the season of Blaze, they have never found anything of value. Some of the caves have pictures carved into the walls, believed to have been etched by the Merfolk who have been known to record the history of their clans in caves throughout Noar. Perhaps the most famous thing about the Krome Caves, however, are the giant sea eels that grow up to seven metres long and feast on wild goats or anything else that stumbles across their path.

Forests


Andaris: Royal Glen, Hangwood, Grimvale.
Venora: Raven’s Holt.
Krome: Wisp Wood.
Gwayne: Wise Wood.
Burhan: The Vanwilds.
Endor: Blackwood Hills, Blevam’s Forest.
Warrick: Hunter’s Grove, Eldritch Copse.

Culture

Renmere is a real melting pot of mixed culture. Of course, it is stable in its history and beliefs, and continues to honour its founding fathers in word, song and prayer. Its values have echoed throughout the last five hundred years, and continue to strengthen as law and order is restored.

Demographics

A recent census estimated that there are just over 20,000 people living in the capital city of Renmere. With an extra 2,600 in Venora, 3,200 in Warrick, 2,700 in Krome, 1,800 in Burhan, 800 in Gwayne, and 1,200 in Endor.

Of these totals, Humans make up 60%, followed by Mix Bloods at 22%, Ecrede 14%, N’jiin 3%, and Tasavi 1%

Housing


Andaris City being the capital of Renmere is the most vastly populated area in the kingdom. The housing here is quaint, warm, and appealing for many reasons. The walls of Andaris City are tall, thick, and well fortified, with guards patrolling around the clock. The city is broken down into three tiers, Lowtown, Midtown, and The Crown. Land within the walls of the city is extremely expensive, thus most of the plots are small, very few people have gardens, and only the wealthy ever live above Midtown.

The Crown: Situated at the top of the city is The Crown, a stretch of flat land housing some of Renmere's most prestigious buildings, including Andar Castle, Renmere University, the Andaris Noble House, and the Temple. Strict regulations keep people from building anything too outrageous here where uniformity if encouraged.

Midtown: The most popular option for residents of Andaris City and home to many of the members of The Iron Hand, Renmere's collective forces, including the Knights, Skyriders, and Sailors. Most of the houses are lined up in long rows following the cobblestone streets, with flower boxes below the windowsills and the odd, rare garden at the back. As land is pricey, and rather limited, people are advised to house their horses at the local stables, or barracks in Lowtown if one is a member of The Iron Hand. Not only is Midtown where a lot of the common housing can be found, with most buildings made from stone or wood, it is also the business hub of the city, the marketplaces are situated here, as too are many of the small businesses and shops.

Lowtown: Perhaps the busiest tier of the city, Lowtown is home to the barracks, many of the city's defense military, and the slums. The poorest people in Renmere usually find themselves here, either waiting on available housing, or a one way trip back to where they came from. This is the underbelly where crime is high, the living conditions are poor, and disparity is rife. There are no cottages in Lowtown, only small apartments cramped together piled one on top of the other. There are very few windows and the buildings are painted with dull, earthy colours.

Beyond the walls: Most of the Andaris countryside is covered in trees, vineyards, or livestock. The mild climate makes it perfect for farming all year round, and people are welcome to live beyond the walls on small starter farms.

Wood: Being one of the most reusable am abundant sources of building materials in Renmere, the majority of houses, especially the frames, are built with wood in the villages and the poorer areas of the capital city of Renmere. Wood is sourced from Venora, Burhan, Krome and Gwayne, with most of it sent by ship down the River Zor. Logs are towed to the city docks and processed at the port before being carted to the capital.

The majority of Endor’s residents reside underground and choose to use far less wood than their counterparts. Burhan uses a lot of their wood for crafting ships, and consider themselves a sustainable source for tree felling. Every year, Burhan plants twice the amount of trees it cuts down. The same goes for Krome, a realm known for their dense forests and rich sources of different hardwood types. Many of the softer woods come from Venora, a village that prides themselves on their craftsmanship of this material. Being close neighbours with Krome, Gwayne have begun planting more trees, though the lingering snow makes the growing process a lot slower in this region.

Stone: Preferred by the wealthy and those who live in colder climates, stone is used where it is most abundant, usually in Warrick and surrounding areas. Sources from mines in the Burning Mountains, both Warrick and Endor ship wood to the capital for wall upkeep and building within Midtown and the Crown.

Religion & Temples

The Sacred Seven: Unlike the majority of Noar, who worship the gods, the people of Renmere continue to idealise the first men and women of Renmere, placing mortals above immortals by following the rules and age old traditions set and agreed upon by the Sacred Seven, a practice that has gone on for hundreds of years.

Beliefs and Values: Renlism
The people of Renmere honour the memory of their founding forefathers by keeping their seven virtues alive in a practice called Renlism. A Renlist is any man, woman, or child, of any race, who believes in and lives by the text in the Creed of Silence, a book that highlights the Seven Virtues.

Scripture: The Creed of Silence
No one knows who first wrote the Creed of Silence, though it is believed all of the Sacred Seven put forth their beliefs and values to be published in the book. It is said that Gwayne, who mysteriously disappeared after visiting the caves of Warren’s Peak, left the book to be found, which Burhan had helped him write both in Ethesion and the Common language. Discovery, loyalty, conquest, memory, justice, knowledge, and perseverance are the seven virtues highlighted in the old scripture. Under the heading of each virtue is a collection of stories and acts undertaken by the Sacred Seven which are designed to help people through hardship and help them make the right life decisions.

The Seven Virtues:
Thou shalt Discover. Andaris, Patron Saint of Travel.
Thou shalt not Betray. Venora, Patron Saint of Honour.
Thou shalt Conquer. Warrick, Patron Saint of War.
Thou shalt not Forget. Krome, Patron Saint of Death.
Thou shalt be Just. Endor, Patron Saint of Justice.
Thou shalt seek Knowledge. Burhan, Patron Saint of Knowledge.
Thou shalt Endure. Gwayne, Patron Saint of Life.

Renlism Monks
The monks are overseen by the Empress, a religious figure voted into power by the seven Dukes and Duchesses of Renmere Kingdom. The Empress is in charge of the day to day running of the temple while the monks act as teachers, preachers, and caretakers of the temple and surrounding grounds. All monks are considered peaceful, religious figures within the city and are often treated with the utmost respect by the people of Renmere. There are four levels to becoming a monk, Observer, Obeyer, Brother, and finally Monk. The main perk of being a monk is that they get to live for free in the temple accommodation, they don't pay any seasonal expenses or taxes, and they are the only people in Renmere that can use Magic without a permit.

Rituals & Traditions

Draketh: A language of old spoken by the original settlers of Renmere. Draketh is still used today by high ranking members of The Iron Hand. It is also spoken by history experts from the University of Renmere.

Holidays

Nora’s Birthday: On the thirty third day of Harvest people from all across Renmere gather at the foot of Nora’s Rest to celebrate the birthday of the First Queen of Renmere. Nora was beloved by all and her kindness and generosity has echoed through the ages. Some say Nora was a witch with the ability to see things unfold long before they took place, though many laugh at this notion, stating that if she had such gifts, why then was she unable to foresee her untimely death at the young age of twenty two. Nora had twin boys and all twins are celebrated on this day. While the thirty third of Harvest is a day of enjoyment and rest for most, sharing wine and fond stories, this day also sees a faction called The Soothsayers rise up from their underground dwellings, climbing the mountain to the vineyards with the rest of the party goers in secret to perform an age old ritual that is seldom discovered by authorities before it is too late.

The First Hunt: An age old tradition started by Henry Warrick, who during the season of Bloom would go out with a team of hunters in search of the biggest buck, bear, or wolf they could find. The meat of this animal was often gifted to the less fortunate and the pelt would be expertly preserved as a gift for esteemed guests visiting his home. These days every region in Renmere takes part in the hunt, tracking, trapping, and hunting down the biggest animal they can find, and making sure nothing from their kill goes to waste; even the bones are boiled, dried, and used for carving, medicines, rituals, and other crafts.

The Sacred Seven: On the first day of Blaze, the people of Renmere honour The Sacred Seven, when the founders of Renmere are celebrated for their discovery, loyalty, conquest, memory, justice, knowledge, and perseverance. But this is not a day of feasts, instead all Renlists across the land who believe in the values of the Creed of Silence go without speaking or eating for the entire day in order to pay homage to their saints, Andaris, Venora, Warrick, Krome, Burhan, Endor, and Gwayne. Most businesses are closed on this day and people are free to stay home from school and work without fear of reprimand. On this day Andaris City and many of the regional outposts resemble a ghost town.

The Scar in the Sky: During the height of summer in Blaze the scar in the sky symbolises the hatching season of the Jacadon and can last up to twenty days. During this time the sky seems to get darker of an evening and takes a long time to lighten in the morning. Even on a moonless night one can still see the big, red scar in the sky, which is said to have pointed to the initial location of Renmere, the giant Jacadon shot out of the sky by The First Shields. People are forbidden from climbing the slopes of Sunset Isle during this time as anyone who attempts such is sure to be quickly eradicated by one of the Jacadons guarding their nests and newborn hatchlings. The Great Climb takes place at the end of Frost, when young Jacadon are old enough to fend for themselves, though many remain with their parents for much longer than this. Skyriders from all over Renmere gather at this time to climb the cliffs and attempt to form a bond with a young Jacadon in the hopes of one day taking to the skies on the back of the great winged beasts.

Frost Mist Festival: Celebrating the first snow isn't to everyone's tastes, but the people of Renmere understand that everything has a season, and with the snow comes the promise of life. Planning for the masquerade takes place before the first snow and is swiftly celebrated come the eve of the first light dusting on the northern peaks of Endor and Gwayne. Many couplings are formed during this time, when young people get together and dance the night away to good music, with only Venora’s best wine in hand. Prizes are given every year to the best dressed and most creative masks on show.

Marriage & Divorce

Arranged marriages within noble lines are very common in Renmere and often women don’t have a choice regarding who they marry, especially if their parents or even grandparents find a suitable match for them before they do. It is not unusual for two people to wed without ever having previously crossed paths, and couples generally begin their journey together as man and wife as complete strangers. Though love is not always formed within these sorts of arrangements, a strong working relationship is typically built over the years as divorce is out of the question, in fact it doesn’t even exist within the Kingdom of Renmere.

Rules of engagement are simple, with no men or women under the age of sixteen being permitted to marry, the only obvious exception being the king. Unlike other territories across Noar, it is the male’s side of the arrangement who must put their best foot forward, offering a handsome dowry of a sum amounting to no less than one thousand gold crowns, or a house on an acre of land. A woman has no power to refuse a noble suitor if their parents are in agreement and the terms of their exchange are met.

After arrangements are made a public notice is put up in the city and any local newspapers in order to ensure that there are no grounds for prohibiting the binding, a close blood relation, existing spouses, children, debt, or religious vow all to be acknowledged by family or members of the public who might know more details. If the terms are agreeable and no nasty rumours come forward, the wedding date is set and the marriage goes ahead as planned, however, if there are grounds for concern the parents have the power to call off the wedding with the other party publicly shamed for their misdeeds.

Under two Virtues of the Seven (thou shalt not betray, and thou shalt endure), there are no grounds for divorce for the noble or common man, including heinous acts of rape, adultery, and even incest. Taking a barren wife (for it is always believed to be the female at fault), is no excuse for a marriage to be dissolved, and couples are expected to live under the same roof for the rest of their days. Even those forced to endure a torturous binding dare not speak of what they suffer, for if any ill fate were to befall one of them, the other would be suspected of arranging their murder and spend the next season in the dungeon awaiting a unfair trial, where they are later put to death by way of hook, blade, hanging, or fire, depending on several factors including the method in which their spouse was slain.

For a noble, marriage can only take place in Blaze, which is considered to bring the couple luck. This means all weddings take place in the season of Blaze without fault, the hottest part of the year. Commoners, on the other hand, are able to get married during any season, bar Frost. Treasures are exchanged during the ceremony, and though these have traditionally been family heirlooms, rings, or swords, it is up to the individuals involved to choose what it is they gift the other, with men going all out to outdo their forefathers, siblings, and friends.

After the wedding, the couple are locked in a room for three nights, with no food, but access to water and sweets. It is believed that during this time the marriage will be consummated with even the bitterest of rivals emerging as two bodies, now one of mind. In the event of a second marriage (obtainable only by commoners), often viewed as a sign of wealth outside of noble lines, this tradition is forfeited in the belief that only one marriage can be sacred, even while a second is and sometimes must be tolerated.

Food

The people of Renmere have hunted and lived off the land for generations and, to this day, their diets consist of what they are able to hunt and gather, supplemented by foods that can be produced in the city that they might not be able to acquire within any of the regional outposts, such as cakes, pastries, and specialised long life goods. For the most part, fruits, vegetables, dried or fresh meat, and grains make up the majority of what the average person will eat. Flour is not rare, but sugar is an imported ingredient and as such is used sparingly. Sea salt is often used for the flavoring of savory dishes.

Music

Renmere is best known for the masterful use of the ‘Hang Drum’ also known as the ‘Space Drum’ to many. It is often played at ceremonies, festivals, celebrations, or just in the busy marketplace to keep people entertained and maybe make a few extra crowns on the side. The flute, war drums, and harp are among some of the other most popular instruments in the Kingdom of Renmere. People who possess the skill to play a musical instrument are often held in high regard within Andaris City, a place where knowledge and improving one’s self through the advancement of any art or trade is highly respected.

Language

Common is the most frequently spoken language across Renmere with Ethesion placing a close second. Children are taught both languages in school, though it is not uncommon to meet someone who only speaks a single language and there are opportunities for work as an interpreter within some of the local businesses.

Folktales

A story told time and time again that had echoed throughout the short, five hundred years of Renmere’s history, is that of its creation and the downfall of the dragon it was once believed to be. Some fear that the Gods will one day seek retribution of the death of their beloved pet, Renmere, while others believe the Gods are as impartial in this as they are all things.

Society

Society functions as it does in many cultures. The rich rule the poor, but in this case, the King rules them all. In saying that, the people do have a say in who leads them, reflected in the votes of their Dukes and Duchesses. Rebellions have taken place before and, no doubt, they will again.

Thought society is very tolerant in Renmere, there are few handouts, and every able-bodied individual is expected to work for a living. People are taken care of in their old age, but it is not a comfortable thing to retire, as most of the city taxes are poured into projects, such as improving the ports, roads and schools, leaving little for the pensions of the elderly.

Food is often abundant and trade is strong, both within the capital, its surrounding villages, and abroad. Renmere has a lot to offer, though it does rely on trade with other nations for luxury items, such as sugar. Education is important to the people of Renmere, reflected in the free, public schooling. Though most have criticised the education system as rote-learning, a commoner who can read is better off than a commoner who can not.

Being a militant contient, the law and those who enforce it, generally have the last say unless matters are escalated to the high court. Trials are usually unfair and outcomes determined with little supporting evidence. Improvements are being made to change this, but society is only as good as its weakest link.

Noble Houses

The Ouroboros (or in this case a Jacadon eating its own tail) is the symbol of the Kingdom of Renmere, significant because the people believe the land is a large sleeping Jacadon (dragon), that curled up and turned to stone after it was defeated by Ser Verne Andaris, the first Knight Lord Commander of Renmere. To this day, they still fly the flag of the Ouroboros, both within the city and on the battlefield.

Andaris Family Crest: A picture of the dragon represents the Andaris House of nobility, making ties to its strength, values of freedom and courage. Many members of this line go on to be knights, serving in The Iron Hand. The Andaris Duke is in charge of all city affairs, which include making sure the farms surrounding the city are worked and maintained to a high standard. The noble house is located in the Crown, along with Andar Castle, Renmere University, and the Temple.

Fort Venora: Nicknamed The Garden Capital of Renmere, Venora is known for vast fields of fruit trees, grapevines, and endless crops. Venora supplies Renmere with just under thirty percent of the year’s food trade, shipping goods as far as Endor. The stone outpost is decorated with elegant statues, sweet smelling gardens, and ponds filled with a vast array of interesting and colourful fish. Venora is the region of peace, tranquility, and love.

Fort Warrick: Set amongst the grassy plains at the northernmost point of the Kyo Rover, Fort Warrick is one of the oldest communities in the kingdom. The people of Warrick use a strong mix of sand, lime, water, and stone to build their houses, which are more often than not only one story high, with only the very wealthy building anything higher than that. Farmsteads are scattered right across the region, famous for raising some of the most beautiful horses in all of Renmere. Most of the people that call Warrick home work as farmers, animal handlers, glass blowers, and hunters, making the most of the long, warm summers and fertile land. Responsible for producing just over fifty percent of the nations food, Warrick is considered one of the most important regions for growing.

Fort Krome: No region knows how to throw a bigger party than the people of Krome, who make the most of their geographical location, utilising the lake and nearby rivers to trade with Burhan and the City of Andaris. Their houses are made of flat stone, piled up to make beautiful dome shaped buildings with tall stacks for chimneys and no windows, keeping as much warmth as they possibly can during the cold winter seasons. They like to brew beer and cider, importing most of their ingredients from the region of Venora, where a lot of Krome’s young people travel to celebrate Nora’s birthday every year. The sons and daughters of Krome have a long, prestigious history serving as the King’s Knights, and are a very proud people, valuing trust and honour above all else. A deal that ends with a handshake in Krome is said to be stronger than any contract written on paper.

Fort Burhan: One of the hardest outposts to get to in all of Renmere, Burhan is walled off by swamps in the north, rocky mountains to the west, and the powerful Avari River and Lake Krome to the south. It's dense woodlands make it hard to traverse and the roads are windy, overgrown, and difficult to navigate. The outpost is stationed deep within the Burhan forest, where a large, single tower stands so tall against the trees it seems to touch the clouds. This is The Heart of Renmere, a place tucked so deeply within the land, few outsiders have ever set eyes on it and lived to tell the tale.

Burhan is connected to the maze of underground tunnels that stretch all the way from Venora in the south, to Gwayne in the north. Its location is tactical, providing enough shelter to house half of Andaris City in times of war. Most of the surrounding dwellings are made of wood, boasting some of the finest log cabins Idalos has ever seen. If one is ever in need of a shipwright or builder, they rarely look any further than Burhan.

Fort Gwayne: It it here in the northernmost region of Renmere that troops from all divisions of Renmere’s Army are sent to train for at least one year of their internship as squires, sea and airmen. Here the weather is bad and the food is worse, pushing every man and woman to their very limits. Fort Gwayne is an outpost made of iron, wood, and stone, that spends most of the year buried under two or three feet of snow. Gwayne sons are raised tough, though most of them end up in the Renmere Navy as Sailors, spending most of their youth fishing along the rugged North Coast.

Fort Endor: A small outpost on Norr Bay oversees the thriving trade business of Endor’s precious stones and metals, though the people of Endor live much, much further down within the mountainous terrain. Over hundreds of years, Endor’s miners have carved their homes in the rock below the mountains, where iron ore is plenty, and there is gold enough to fill one’s boots. Gem-crafters, metal smiths, and masons call this part of the kingdom home, growing fat and rich on the fruits of their labour. The burly men of Endor make their jobs look easy, but this is no place for the faint of heart, where the City of Andaris sends slaves by the boatload to work in the mines, crooks, thieves, and bandits better off put to work than sit rotting in the city’s prison. Endor is also rumoured to host and maintain the most secure bank in all of Renmere and possibly Noar, buried deep underground. Few know of its exact location.

Merchant Houses

None to date with land holdings. Speak to a moderator to have a merchant house added.

Education

Schooling: Most children attend the local school for free from the age of seven, leaving by the time they are sixteen. Some families choose to homeschool their children, both options being highly respected in the city. Education is important to the people of Renmere and all children are expected to undergo some form of schooling. The public school is run by Monks, and closes during the season of Frost.

Renmere University: The Andaris University holds some of the oldest documents and relics in Noar. Countless documents have been restored, transcribed, or protected for future generations to enjoy. One of the most famous artifacts on record is the journal of H. Warrick, an original member of the Sacred Seven. It takes three years of study to master any chosen field.

Fees: It costs 500 crowns a season to attend Renmere University. The university closes during the season of Frost, when all teachers and students go on holiday, most taking up winter jobs to earn their tuition fees for the following year. Each year of university begins on the first day of Bloom and ends on the last day of Harvest. Fees include one class and the study of Rune Magic. Any extra classes cost an additional 100 crowns per season, though it is advised that students focus on one field of learning.

Scholarships: Each region offers a scholarship once a year to the highest achieving student from their region. This covers a year’s tuition at Renmere University in Andaris City.

The Department of Magic: Renmere University only offers one class in the arcane arts where students will have the option of learning the foundations of Rune Magic. Due to the cost of attending the university, many people choose to partake later in life with only the very wealthy sending their sons and daughters to this prestigious school. Each student willing to attend arcane classes must first obtain a permit to practice Rune Magic.

Knights and Skyriders: Upon receiving a knighthood, knights and Skyriders to attend the university for a whole year on a special scholarship where they can choose one class and the practice of Rune Magic.

Classes

History: Covering a wide range of topics, including language, social-studies, the Sacred Seven, the immortals, Renmere, and the wider world of Noar. The first year of study focuses on issues and current affairs closer to home. The second allows students to specialise in two languages, an in depth study of Renmere, and the third and final year involves an overseas exchange programme for the season of Bloom, followed by a two season long assignment to write and publish a manuscript detailing the individuals preferred realm of history.

Science: Focusing in the first year on local flora and fauna, weather patterns, chemical sciences, and nature studies. Students then spend two seasons in Nejem, Aramane or Clead, focusing on research in groups on their chosen area of choice, learning all these is to know about these exotic places. The third season is spent preparing a paper as individuals to present in class on the last day of Harvest. In their third and final year, students are set up with an apprenticeship, learning their preferred trades under the guidance of experts which more often than not lands them a job in that field of work.

Mathematics: The first year is taken up with the study of advanced mathematics, theory and stargazing. The second year all of this theory is applied, with students able to spend the majority of the school year working on their own projects which are then presented to the class in Harvest. In the third year, students have the option of studying at other universities located in Noar, such as Aramane, Clead and Nejem. They also have the option of going into teaching or project work. Some prefer to be assigned to accountant firm and city banks, securing themselves well paid jobs for the rest of their lives.

Engineering: Creative individuals with a background of mathematics and science usually gravitate towards the study of engineering. The first year of study is all theory, assignments and written essays, with a handful of field-trips to local areas to discuss and study different bridges, roads and buildings. The second year is more applied, though still close to home, tasking students with the opportunity to work on local projects with qualified engineers, maintaining major bridges, roads and buildings. In the third year, students are able to arrange placements in other major cities within Noar where they must work and complete a year long assignment detailing their contributions to a major project abroad.

Medicine: As magical healing has no place in Renmere, classes for traditional medicine are popular. Students spend their first year studying and growing different plants and herbs that aid in the healing process. They learn about the different types of venom and how to cure a wide range of bites. Mixing, drying, storing, and creating balms is also an area of focus. In their second year, students are assigned placements closer to home, usually in the temples where most people go for healing, or city infirmaries. Some even travel with knights and skyriders, working in the field to heal any injured men and women. Placements outside of Renmere take place in the third year, usually in highly populated cities, such as Nejem and Aramane.

Rune Magic: As the only magic permitted in Renmere, Rune Magic has been a long time favourite of the university. The first year is theory, the second is applied, and the third is a placement abroad and year long assignment detailing the individuals contributions.

Economy & Employment

Work Ethic: Everyone in Renmere is expected to work from the age of sixteen to sixty, unless they are furthering their education. There are no handouts in the Kingdom of Renmere and anyone who can't provide for themselves or their family is sent to work on a farm or in the mines as a last alternative. Military personnel are allowed to retire at the age of fifty, while everyone else is expected to work at least fifteen years longer. At the age of retirement, low income housing is provided to retirees, along with a humble pension paid out of the King’s taxes. This is barely enough to get by on, resulting in most individuals continuing to work until they are no longer able.

Common Jobs

Andaris: Blacksmith, Knight, Monk, Lady in Waiting, Farmer, Courtesan, Baker, Merchant, Squire, Temple Maid, Fishermen, Bard, Doctor, Groom, Teacher, Scribe, Poet, Tax Collector, Jailor, Engineer, and Shipwright.

Venora: Fishermen, Hatmaker, Piper, Farmer, Herbalist, Beekeeper, Gardener, Artist, Dancer, Temple Maid, Dairymaid, or Musician.

Warrick: Huntsman, Farmer, Weaponsmith, Tanner, Fletcher, Farmer, Animal Handler, Temple Maid, Butcher, Saddler, Bowyer, Herder, Blacksmith, and Merchant.

Burhan: Shipwright, Arborist, Architect, Engineer, Temple Maid, Builder, Archer, Falconer, Bandit, Carpenter, and Painter.

Endor: Miner, Metalsmith, Guard, Gem Cutter, Armorsmith, Pirate, and Banker.

Gwayne: Philosopher, Teacher, Pioneer, Sailor, Ropemaker, Tanner, and Builder.

Krome: Brewer, Fishermen, Mason, Scout, Cobbler, Builder, Herder, Temple Maid, Hunter, Tanner, Arborist, and Farmer.

Imports

Andaris: Slaves, leather, sugar, stone, metal, and livestock.

Venora: Timber, gems, metal, and livestock.

Warrick: Timber, armour, and medicines.

Burhan: Wheat, metal, and cider.

Endor: Food, leather, timber, and paper.

Gwayne: Food, medicines, livestock, and timber.

Krome: Food, metal, and slaves.

Exports

Andaris: Books, corn, wheat, salt, pumpkin, clothes, medicines, cheese, and cattle.

Venora: Dried corn, potatoes, black pepper, honey, cotton, barley, wheat, carrots, walnuts, peanuts, pumpkin, and wine.

Warrick: Furs, horses, honey, pelts, clothing, leather, bows, cured meats, and rope.

Burhan: Timber, boats, rice, straw, gold, and paper.

Endor: Iron, silver, copper, precious metals, gems, armour, shields, swords, axes, rock, and slaves.

Gwayne: Leather, pelts, books, rare stone, bone carvings, and timber.

Krome: Beer, timber, leather, pelts, cider, furs, and cheese.

Historical Epithets

Ser Verne Andaris: The People's Prince
Lady Cyrene Venora: The Devoted
Ser Henry Warrick: The Hunter
Ser Rahiko Burhan: Of The Stars
Ser Gerrard Krome: The Shining
Ser Oron Endor: The Wise
Ser Warren Gwayne: The Half-God

Royal Epithets

Nora Warrick: The Beloved
Henry Warrick II: The Defender
Brom Warrick: The Lionheart
Ramsay Warrick: The Cruel
Judith Warrick: The Calm
Alice Warrick: Wayward
James Warrick: The Burning Prince
Victoria Endor: The Brave
Edward Endor: The Black Sword
Edwin Endor: The Iron Crow
Dedrick Gwayne: The Fallen
Cyrus Gwayne: Of The Earth
Leonide Vladimir: The Foolish
Victor Vladimir: The Common King
Royce Vladimir: The Rude
Oberon Andaris: The Executioner
Lacey Andaris: The Desired
Philip Andaris: The Strong
Sarah Andaris: The Fair
Jethro Andaris: The Swift
Jonathan Andaris: The Fortunate
Ira Andaris: Little Bird
Minos Andaris: Blue Bear
Mary Andaris: The Wicked
Godric Andaris: The Sweet Spoken
Emmett Andaris: The Heckler
Judith Andaris: The Quiet
Bennett Andaris: The Sly
Hector Andaris: The Jealous
Chloe Andaris: The Gentle
Caius Andaris: The Shadow of Dawn
Darcy Andaris: The Dangerous
Odette Andaris: The Invincible
Vanessa Luther: The Wilted Flower
Craig Luther: The Forgotten
William Luther: The Mad
Owen Luther: The Silent
Estelle Luther: Of Milk and Honey
Adele Renault: The Proud
Stephen Renault: The Peacemaker
Cassander Renault: The Boy King
Freya Renault: The Despised

Noble Epithets

Alston Warrick: The Peacekeeper
Isabel Warrick: The Proud
Jared Warrick: The Lion of Warrick
Lazuli Warrick: The Lion's Lamb
Victor Warrick: The Mighty
Pavoo Burhan: The Decider
Veljorn Burhan: The Dragon King
Vanessa Krome: The Pious

Government & Politics

Dukes: Each region in Renmere is governed by a Duke, who oversees all of the dealings that go on in and around the outpost. These Dukes and Duchesses are summoned to Andaris City to sit in court at Andar Castle, sending a representative (baron or baroness) in their place if they cannot attend. It is a Duke’s job to advise the king and keep him informed as to the happenings in each region. Dukes are treated like generals and have their own forces to command, ensuring that their assigned region is kept trouble free.

Emperor and Empress: The Emperor once held the position of Duke and was more than likely voted into power by his peers. The Emperor is in charge of overseeing city business such as taxes, education, trade, and city planning, while the Empress oversees the running of the temples. Despite the titles, the two are never related as before becoming Empress of Renmere, any girl picked for the task is one that had dedicated her life to the beliefs and values of Renlism, often working at one of the shrines or temples dedicated to each region. The Empress is not permitted to marry or ever lie with another person, be it man or woman, as she is viewed as pure, holy, and untouchable. An Emperor on the other hand is usually married with many sons and has a good mind for business.

Lord Commander: Many knights advance through the ranks every year, but only one ever makes the title of Lord Commander, a position held by the same individual and voted on for change only once every five years. The commander is in charge of bringing together the King’s Army, working with Dukes and Barons from all regions to ensure the number of trained men continues to increase and is kept up to date. The Lord Commander is no higher in rank than a Duke, but he is closer to the King, working out of Andar Castle. This position is only ever awarded to knights of the highest rank.

King and Queen: The strongest title known to man, the King of Renmere is all powerful, loved, and respected. He alone commands what goes on inside and outside of Renmere regarding religion, title, law, land ownership, and the movement and whereabouts of his vast army, including the King’s Knights, Sailors, and Skyrifers. He works closely with The Lord Commander, and has the final say in all things.

History of the Royal Family

I. Nora Warrick (nee Andaris)
m. Henry Warrick II
-Brom Warrick
-Ramsay Warrick
Ruled between M1311 and M1337
Note: Brom Warrick chose not to take the throne, gifting it to his brother.

II. Ramsay Warrick
m. Judith Warrick (nee Burhan)
-Alice Warrick
-James Warrick
-Victoria Warrick
Ruled between M1338 and M1377
Note: Alice Warrick ran away with a commoner and was stripped of her title as Princess of Renmere, and James Warrick died fighting bandits in The Burning Mountains.

III. Victoria Endor (nee Warrick)
m. Edward Endor
-Cyrus Endor
-Edwin Endor
Ruled between M1378 and M1406

IV. Cyrus Gwayne (nee Endor)
m. Dedrick Gwayne
-Titus Gwayne
Ruled between M1407 and M1436
Notes: Cyrus and Dedrick Gwayne were murdered in Nejem during peace talks over fair trade. Their son, Titus, was stillborn. Cyrus’s Brother Edwin was voted into power the following Bloom.

V. Edwin Endor
m. Nicole Endor (nee Gwayne)
-Leonide Gwayne
Ruled from M1437 to M1478

VI. Leona Vladimir (nee Endor)
m. Victor Vladimir
-Royce Vladimir
Ruled from M1479 to M1484
Notes: Victor murdered his wife after planning to rule the Kingdom of Renmere until his son came of age. Unfortunately, the boy never got the chance as Oberon Andaris, descendant of Verne Andaris, killed Victor, known to most as 'The Common King' and his son Royce before taking the throne for himself with the blessing of the people and the Dukes of Renmere.

VII. Oberon Andaris
m. Lacey Andaris (nee Burhan)
-Philip Andaris
-Sarah Andaris
-Jonathan Andaris
-Jethro Andaris
Ruled from M1485 to M1531
Note: Philip Andaris died in service and young Sarah passed away due to illness before her tenth birthday.

VIII. Jonathan Andaris
m. Ira Andaris (nee Warrick)
-Minos Andaris
Ruled from M1532 to M1572
Note: Queen Ira died giving birth to Minos Andaris.

IX. Minos Andaris
m. Mary Andaris (nee Krome)
-Godric Andaris
-Emmett Andaris
Ruled from M1573 to M1596
Note: Prince Godric is taken hostage and later killed by his captors.

X. Emmett Andaris
m. Judith Andaris (nee Endor)
-Hector Andaris
-Bennett Andaris
Ruled from M1597 to M1646

XI. Hector Andaris
m. Chloe Andaris (nee Gwayne)
-Caius Andaris
-Darcy Andaris
Ruled from M1647 to M1675
Note: Caius is mysteriously poisoned two nights before his arranged marriage was to take place.

XII. Darcy Andaris
m. Odette Andaris (nee Kornel)
-Vanessa Andaris
Ruled from M1676 to M1698

XIII. Vanessa Luther (nee Andaris)
m. Malcolm Luther
-Owen Luther
-William Luther
Ruled M1699 to M1747

XIV. Owen Luther
m. Estelle Luther (nee Tudor)
-Adele Luther
Ruled from M1748 to M1771

XV. Adele Renault (nee Luther)
m. Stephen Renault
-Cassander Renault
Ruled from M1772 to M1787
Note: Adele and Stephen's ship sunk out at sea after being set upon by pirates. Their only son Cassander, then fifteen was set to rule in their place, and was betrothed to a much older woman, Freya Krome, twenty-six.

XVI. Cassander Renault
m. Freya Renault (nee Krom)
Ruled from M1788 to K8
Note: Cassander had his wife killed for treason and married a temple maid. Old law in Renmere forbids any man from marrying a temple maid, stating that he will be stripped of all holdings, lands and titles. The Dukes and Duchesses of Renmere took a vote and made Atler Krome king the following Bloom.

XVII. Atler Krome
m. Delilah Krome (nee Jones)
-Vanessa Krome
Ruled from K9 to current.

Ceremony: When one ruler steps down, passes away or is forced to give up the title of rulership, a new ruler can not rise to power before the first day of Bloom. It is considered extremely unlucky to take the throne before this time, a ceremony that is favoured by the people of Renmere. There is no age restriction, a king or queen can be as young or old as fortunes permit, but any ruler under the age of twenty and over the age of seventy is guided by the seven dukes and a majority vote must be passed in order for any action to be taken. The king’s closest advisor, however, remains the Lord Commander.

National Army

Knights:
Squire
Steward
Knight
Cavalier
Captain
Warden

Skyriders:
Handler
Sergeant
Blazer
Captain
Colonel
General

Navy:
Deckhand
Ensign
Officer
Lieutenant
Captain
Admiral

International Army

Being a rather small nation, Renmere does not have an international presence, but does send representatives to each of the major cities around Noar to speak on the King’s behalf. These representatives are not permitted to make any decisions, but instead must stay in contact with officials back home in Remember.

Law & Order

Laws and Enforcement

No Theft: Fines of up to 100 crowns for minor theft, fine and jail time for major theft.
No Murder: Anyone caught at the scene of the crime will have to prove their innocence at trial or hang for their crime.
No Factions: Illegal groups such as The Soothsayers are hunted down and thrown in jail or forced into work at the Endor Mines.
No Piracy: Each region has a small fleet of patrol ships moving back and forth along the coasts, any pirate ships will be fired upon.
No Arcane: Residents must apply for a permit in order to use the Rune Magic.
No Assault: Be it sexual, physical or otherwise, the punishment is jail time or work in the Endor Mines.

Notes: It is not against the law to purchase, smoke, snort, drink, or consume drugs in Renmere if you can afford to do so, however, authorities will not tolerate any disturbances to the peace in Andaris City or any of the outposts and villages that fall under its banner. People are free to practice any religion they want in the privacy of their own homes, but should be aware that public worship outside of the Renlism Religion is frowned upon. Polygamy is also allowed in the city, though it goes against the cultural laws of marriage set by the royal family.

Crime & Punishment

The Knights of Renmere are the main law enforcers and, as such, have the power to reprimand criminals as they see fit. However, the use of excessive force can and often is reported by witnesses and just because the King’s Knights are tasked with dishing out punishment, doesn't mean they themselves are above it. Anyone who breaks one or more of the six laws is likely to be ordered to pay a fine, spend time in jail, stand trial, or be sent to the Endor Mines and forced into manual labour, a task many don't last more than a few years in.

Some law breaks beg for the mines knowing the alternative, as a lot of the kingdom's most ruthless law breakers are sent to one of the Ducal Houses as a slave, fated to live out the remainder of their days in chains before being sent into the fighting pits for sport and the odd bit of coin. Few slaves have ever been able to earn their freedom, but a skilled warrior might be fortunate enough to see the ring of the fighting arena and earn their Duke enough gold to buy their freedom; that's if they live long enough in a place that would deem them kill or be killed.

Factions

The Iron Hand: Perhaps the oldest faction in the history of Renmere, the Iron Hand has served the people for hundreds of years, sworn to protect and serve.

Twelve generations ago, a fleet of foreign ships sailed up the Zor River from the east. They docked in the depths of Lake Krome and attacked the small settlement nearby. A tribe of three hundred trained warriors, most of them young boys, pitted against Renmere's farmers and fishermen, but they did not end a single life. Instead the foreigners turned the village upside down in search of Zor, a gifted peasant boy they claimed had the ability to see the future and had been taken from them by the knights of the dragon.

After three days of searching and with the foreigners finding no sign of the boy, they turned their eye on the noble family of Krome and stayed in the village for a season. Tired of waiting and fighting for the boy, Zor, they moved on to the capital and ten days later arrived on foot at the gates, demanding the safe return of the boy in exchange for a daughter of Krome, but not just anyone, no, this girl, Avari Krome, was said to harbour the blood of an immortal.

The Knights of Renmere were set upon the foreigners by order of the King. Almost nine hundred Knights died that day while the strangers from the sea suffered zero casualties. Displeased and fearing another wave of attacks, the following morning the King struck a peace deal with the sailors in which they agreed to return to their ships and sail around the coast to dock in Cyrene Bay where the boy Zor would await them. Before the Warriors could return to their ships, however, the men of Burhan and Warrick had taken a pass through the Burning Mountains and sailed down the river into the lake where they proceeded to torch the foreign ships.

When the warriors finally arrived, the lake looked as if it had erupted, black smoke billowing skyward, a wall of men lined the shores, ready to take the lives of the men who had attacked the City of Andaris. It was a bloodbath, and those who weren't cut down in battle were later hunted like dogs, marked with the King's brand and thrown into the pits to fight each other to the death for entertainment and sport. Avari recaptured by her people and sailed out around the coast to Cyrene Bay where they had strung young Zor up by his hands and left him to die. Greeted by such a sight, the daughter of Krome bit off her own tongue and refused to tell the King what she had learned from the foreigners about their homelands.

The people of Krome named the rivers either side of the lake after the two children and years later when the noble woman was grown, she paid for the freedom of the last remaining slaves of that raid.

Today the attack is not only remembered for Renmere’s loss or victory, but for the acts that followed. King Dedrick Gwayne united the individual armies of sailors in Burhan and Skyriders in Warrick, along with his trusted knights, to form a collective force called The Iron Hand, which is yet to be defeated in battle, rulers of land, air, and sea.

The Soothsayers: A small, powerful group of arcane users that deal in the dark art of Necromancy, a practice that is outlawed in the Kingdom of Renmere. The Soothsayers have honed their Necromancy skills over many generations and it is believed the group was first formed three hundred years ago by the four Cane brothers, the most infamous grave robbers of their time. Today authorities believe there are at least sixty members in the group, one that is very selective about who they invite to join their ranks and often leave cryptic messages around the city providing details on meeting times and places for those who know what they are looking for. Their most popular yearly gathering takes place in Venora during the celebrations of Nora’s birthday amongst the well kept vineyards on Nora’s Rest. To be considered for membership you must have at least 15 points in Esen.

VII: High atop The Burning Mountains on a cliff face called Raven’s Point, The Mountain Men hold the forgotten fortress of Vulken, the rumoured son of an immortal, given life by a mortal mother known only as Sura. The road to Vulken’s Fort is treacherous, long, and accessible only on foot or the back of a Ramthor mount, taking over three to four days to arrive at the iron gates. On the edge of the cliff face in the depths of the fortress, a three by three metre chute (nicknamed the 'Mouth of the Jacadon') is used to send intruders to their deaths onto the rocks over seventeen hundred feet below.

Here bandits have lived, thrived, and hoarded their treasures for hundreds of years without much quarrel from outsiders. Unique to this group, every member born into the clan is given a name that begins with the letter V (not commonly known) in honour of Vulken’s legacy, and a secret tattoo (pictured right) under their left armpit on the side of their chest. For generations they have robbed, terrorised, and killed the people of Renmere, especially in the regions of Warrick and Endor, but have been quiet for the last five to ten years, leading people to believe their numbers are dwindling, while others feel The Mountain Men of Vulken are planning something big.

The group is led and run by a woman named Vishal, with seven key members making up the leaders of regional bandit groups, one assigned to each city or village in Renmere, running unlawful businesses, scams, and taking whatever they want. Trial by combat is the only way to escape sentencing and usually an untimely end with a trip into the 'Mouth of the Jacadon'. Anyone can challenge the leader of VII in an attempt to overthrow her, and while many have tried, none have even come close to defeating Vulken's Savage.

Qe'Dreki: Led by Veljorn Burhan, the Qe'Dreki, or 'Warriors of the Dragon' have slowly been gathering forces in the west for many arcs. Backed and funded by three of the major noble houses, the group is now an army, one big enough, perhaps, to challenge The Iron Hand, the true strength of the King's Army and power in Renmere.

The Qe'Dreki believe that the king should only be a man of old blood, a descendant of one of the Sacred Seven, and for this reason, they have easily gained the backing of the people of Renmere, especially those who feel ill at ease whenever there is a foreigner in power. Veljorn Burhan epitomises everything that the people of Renmere hold dear. He is a man of noble blood, descendent of Ser Rahiko Burhan, captain of the Sailors, and leader of the Warriors of the Dragon.

Jorick's Keep currently houses a fraction of Veljorn's army, tucked away in The Burning Mountains, while the majority move among the people freely, slaves, carpenters, blacksmiths, knights, and nobles alike, they are invisible, but have full faith in their leader, and when the time comes, have sworn to fight by his side.

Foreign Relations

Positive
Aramane
Clead

Neutral
Nejem
Vayne
Ryon

Negative
Blackbrine
Crixus
Emanys
Rathos

Magic

All magic is outlawed in Renmere. Individuals must secure a permit from the Empress to be able to use any type of magic in Renmere, including healing magic.

Slavery

There are three types of slaves in Renmere: House Slaves, who work for their masters, branded as property of the person they belong to. Fighting Slaves, often aspiring to reach the title of Gladiator and be marked as such, for with this title comes true freedom and gold. The third and final type of slaves in Renmere are Pleasure Slaves, who are for hire at the local brothel and unable to be kept as personal pets.

Note: All slaves in Renmere are twice marked, once with the symbol of Renmere (always placed on their side under their left arm), and secondly with the brand of their master. There is a third mark offered only to free slaves (usually gladiators) which is a small sword brand ( † ) on the flesh over their right cheekbone. Historically, slaves in Renmere were branded on their right thigh, which is still a popular spot for owner marks.