The Sovereign Concord

Overview: “Ah, the Concordia of divine Sovereignty! The lands where dreams are built!” - Popular motto for the Sovereign Concord

The Sovereign Concord, located in the western region of Eryndor, represents a nation of unified peoples, distinguished by their remarkable industrial prowess. Emerging from the ruins of the once-great "Old Kingdom," they endeavored to rebuild, driven by a relentless pursuit of the vast knowledge lost in the catastrophic event known as the Sundering of the Weave. This rebirth, forged in the aftermath of great destruction, marks a defining chapter in their history as they strive to reclaim what was forgotten and restore what was lost.

Geography: “Only through Concordian ingenuity and innovation may Eryndor be forged anew.” - Alwen Glitterscale, Chancellor of Progression

The territories of the Sovereign Concord occupy the western expanse of the continent Eryndor. The landscape is dominated by vast, mountainous forests and sweeping foothills, creating a rugged and diverse terrain. To the coast, the land transitions into rolling hills and fertile savannahs, ideal for both agriculture and the establishment of thriving city centers. Notably, the northern reaches of the Sovereign Concord are rich in Nyranite—an invaluable Weave-infused crystal capable of harnessing and containing magical energy, marking the region as a crucial hub of mystical power and innovation.

History: “You discarded us as though we were nothing more than shattered playthings! No more. We shall not bend, we shall not toil in silence again!” - Alfred Smithson, Exodus of Dwarvenkin from The Sovereignty.

In the early years of what is now known as the Sovereign Concord, the realm was originally referred to as the Sovereignty. This period remembered as the Age of Prosperity saw The Sovereignty rise as a militaristic superpower. Perpetual conflict with The Dread Dominion fostered an unprecedented surge in technological and martial innovation, driven further by the discovery of Nyranite.

The Sovereignty harnessed Nyranite to create hovering airships, advanced mining and refinement tools, and groundbreaking inventions such as exoskeletons and Generative and Unloading Nyranite Slingers, colloquially known as G.U.N.S. These innovations cemented its dominance as both an industrial and military force.

However, five centuries ago, the Sovereignty suffered a catastrophic setback with the Exodus of the Dwarvenkin to the Dread Dominion. This migration crippled the Nyranite industry, precipitating a collapse that plunged the realm into a prolonged Dark Age. Emerging from the ashes of this decline, the Sovereignty redefined itself as the Sovereign Concord. Though it managed to recover only a fraction of its former Nyranite capabilities, the Sovereign Concord sought a new path, turning its focus toward stability and unity in the wake of its tumultuous past.

Mythos: 

“The night was long, froth with fear and pain, Till mercy bright, for the First Sovereign came.” - Hymn to the First Sovereign 

Following the cataclysmic events of The Sundering, the First Sovereign emerged as a pivotal figure in the annals of Eryndor’s history. According to enduring legend, he was granted the Schema of Heaven, a divine covenant conferred by four gods and irrevocably tied to his bloodline. This celestial sanction legitimized his claim to rule over Eryndor and entrusted his lineage with the sacred duty of rediscovering the knowledge lost from the Old Kingdom.

The First Sovereign is venerated as a paragon of virtue and unwavering duty, renowned for uniting a coalition of heroes to repel the daemonic hordes and the rebellious and heretical Dread Dominion. His reign is often remembered as a golden age, marked by unprecedented innovation, progress, and wonder. Most notably, he is celebrated as the first to synthesize and harness the power of Nyranite crystals, a discovery that transformed the trajectory of Eryndor's development.

A master craftsman and visionary, the First Sovereign’s ingenuity extended to the creation of weapons that were as elegant in design as they were devastating in power. His legacy endures not only in the annals of history but in the myths and artifacts that continue to inspire awe and reverence among the people of Eryndor.

Government: “By my decree bring Eryndor to heel.” - The First Sovereign, given at the Fields of Illathar.

The Sovereign Concord is governed as a Feudal Monarchy, a system that emerged following the transformation of the Sovereignty into its current form. This reformation entrenched a rigid class hierarchy, deeply rooted in traditional feudal roles that delineated the distinctions between nobles and serfs, wealth, and poverty.

At the foundation of this system is the ruling caste, which controls the lands, mines, and industries of the Concord. At its base the Serfs serve the Wardens, the lowest rank of nobility, who serve under the authority of their Marshals. The chain of command ascends further to the Grand Marshals, then to the Chancellors, and ultimately culminates in the Sovereign Chancellor, the pinnacle of power within the realm.

While the nobility hold esteemed political offices, their positions are not invulnerable. Lesser houses possess the potential to unseat them, making political maneuvering and power struggles an ever-present aspect of Concord's governance.

Education: “Innovation is the spark that ignites progress; without it, we remain tethered to the past, but with it, we shape the future." - The Schema of Heaven, Vol 1.2

The citizens of the Sovereign Concord, on average, enjoy an education and technological sophistication comparable to that of a Renaissance society. Even among the serfs, a basic command of the common tongue is widespread. However, this progress is unevenly distributed. The nobility and merchant classes dominate access to higher education and advanced learning, while the serfs are largely confined to the margins of intellectual and technological advancement, toiling in the mire of their station.

The Concord’s mastery of Nyranite has facilitated remarkable achievements, including the creation of airships and G.U.N.S., symbols of its ingenuity and industrial prowess. Yet, this reliance on both mortal labor and the arcane arts prevents the Concord from reaching the heights once achieved by the legendary Old Kingdom. The tension between innovation and tradition remains a defining challenge, as the realm struggles to surpass the shadow of its storied past.

Aesthetic: "Ah, but you’ve heard of me, haven’t you? The Grand Duelist of the Azure Spire, victor of a hundred duels, architect of the Skybreaker, and the one who negotiated near the Storm Wall—yes, that was me. Every medal you see here? Earned with blood, sweat, and brilliance. Perhaps one day, you’ll achieve something worthy of note as well." - Ophelia Swiftwing, Chancellor of Interpretation 

The citizens of the Sovereign Concord are adorned in clothing of lavish elegance and refined sophistication, reminiscent of Victorian-era fashion. Their garments showcase a timeless palette of colors, including the deep richness of Aegean blue, the vibrant hues of turquoise, the warm tones of clay-baked terracotta, and the muted elegance of pale limestone. These fabrics and shades reflect The Sovereign Concord’s cultural emphasis on grace and grandeur, elevating attire to an art form that embodies their aspirational ideals.

The adornments worn by the citizens of the Sovereign Concord are more than mere accessories; they serve as symbols of honor and prestige, commemorating personal achievements and milestones. Each device is a tangible testament to the wearer’s triumphs, reflecting their standing and contributions within the realm.

Core Philosophy: "The heavens hold the key to enlightenment. Reach for them. Rise beyond. For below, there is only the abyss." - Alric Lunaviel, Chancellor of Progression

The Sovereign Concord is founded upon a philosophy that exalts dreamers and trailblazers—those who dare to reach beyond the stars and confront challenges no matter how vast or insurmountable they may seem. Its people are driven by a spirit of audacity and innovation, whether forging wonders of craftsmanship, pioneering advancements, or showcasing their prowess in the arena.

To ascend within the Concord is to embody the ideals of the great First Sovereign, striving for perfection and creativity in all endeavors. This cultural ethos has cultivated a society of fiercely individualistic citizens, each determined to excel and carve their place among the greats. Yet, the ambition that fuels their rise can also lead to their downfall. Many have flown too close to the sun, undone by their hubris or the machinations of envious rivals, a sobering reminder of the thin line between greatness and ruin.

Religion:  “If the First Sovereign was worthy of these Gods, then so are we! Now hush up and pray” - Unknown Serf

Religion holds a significant place in the lives of many within the Sovereign Concord. In Valeres, the worship of Helm is particularly fervent, while Mystra is a prominent figure in the capital, where her influence is strongly felt. In more rural regions, Mielikki retains a devoted following, despite her power having waned over time—her worshippers continue to pray to her with unwavering devotion. Chauntea is revered by both the wealthy and the common folk alike, a deity of abundance and community. Over the past century, Gond’s following has grown considerably, and it is believed that he has bestowed new knowledge upon mortals in recognition of this increasing reverence.  

While heavy dogma is not a dominant force, even those engaged in intellectual pursuits often find themselves whispering prayers to the gods worshipped by their ancestors, a testament to the enduring connection between faith and tradition.

Military: “Our G.U.N.S. doesn't mean ANYTHING when your Nyranite is depleted and a Domionon Dog is hounding you down like a soft, sweet little LAMB! Now RUN!” - Olivia Wattson, Marshal of 2nd Light G.U.N.S. Company

The Sovereign Concord possesses the luxury of G.U.N.S., though these formidable weapons remain rare and costly to maintain at peak efficiency. Light G.U.N.S. units are integrated within standard infantry forces, while more powerful G.U.N.S. batteries are stationed with rear regiments and mounted on gunships, providing critical support during engagements.