The Kingdom of Leoriel

Situated in the northern hemisphere, and occupying a large portion of the continent of Fostre, the Kingdom of Leoriel is undoubtedly one of the most important players in the international diplomatic arena. Unlike its more ancient, tradition-bound neighbors, the Kingdom of Leoriel prides itself on its forward-thinking approach to craftsmanship and defense, something that has developed in the country as a result of the combined efforts of many ingenious minds. Its borders, guarded by meticulously engineered fortifications and highly disciplined legions, enclose a realm of vast grain fields and cultured places of study and research.

The beating heart of Leoriel is without a doubt its magnificent capital, Wyverngate. This bustling metropolis is a marvel of architecture and engineering, with towering keeps seamlessly integrated with elaborate canal systems and arcane lighting arrays. Far from Wyverngate, but almost as important, is the fabled Valley of the Master Smiths. Here, hidden for centuries, lie the monumental forges where Leoriel's legendary weaponry and armor are crafted. The valley itself hums with a latent earth magic, allowing the smiths, a revered caste unto themselves in Leorielian society, to imbue their creations with unparalleled durability and a keen, almost sentient, edge. Apprenticeships here are brutally selective, and only those who can withstand the valley's inherent Aetheric fluctuations and the master's demanding tutelage earn the right to wield the sacred hammers.

Further into the country stretch the Shimmerlands, a region of breathtaking beauty and arcane mystery. This landscape of iridescent forests and crystalline lakes is suffused with a unique, pulsating Aetheric energy that causes the very air to shimmer. While beautiful, the Shimmerlands are also unpredictable; wild magic surges spontaneously, and ancient, forgotten ley lines occasionally awaken, leading to strange phenomena and the emergence of exotic, sometimes dangerous, creatures. Scholars, centuries ago, determined that the Shimmerlands are undoubtedly the result of some sort of planar encroachment, maybe from some sort of plane of light. Despite its volatile nature, the Shimmerlands are a vital source of rare magical reagents and luminous minerals, drawing both intrepid explorers and wary prospectors, all seeking to harness its ephemeral power.

Leoriel's society, though organized and meritocratic, values ingenuity above all else, seeing it as the true path to strength and prosperity. While Agandor, the country’s monarch, still rules, the true power often lies with the various Guilds of Innovation and the secretive Conclave of Artificers. Their influence is steadily growing across Iskandria, too, particularly as they push the boundaries of conventional warfare and magical theory, leading some to view Leoriel as a beacon of progress, and others as a dangerous disruptor of the old world order.