Arkein

Culture and Locations

One of three largest kingdoms in Umbener, Vastin is ruled by a king and has the Red Temple (Dualkedorian Creed) as its state religion, which believes in a dichotomy of powers -- of good versus evil forces -- and this belief mostly originates from the fact that Red Temple was the heart of early Vastion culture after the Darkness. The people of Arkein are less culturally diverse than Vastin and pride themselves on a strong sense of belonging and unity. The capital is Regalias. Vesdor Castle is in the duchy of Mevesdor, in eastern Arkein.

Arkein experiences a mediterranean climate on Bator Peninsula and through the Elair Plains, and it has some temperate regions further inland before the montane forests of the Leren Ranges. The White Bay and White Islands sit between the peninsula and mainland, and the Fasaum Islands are also a part of Arkein. The widest river is the Vanetha which flows through Costarson.

Demonym: Arkein, Arkeins

Population: 30,000,000

• Arkein Kingdom
  • Lanerbry Duchy
    • Regalias, capital, 137,000
  • Sysalbry Duchy
    • Cangona, 68,000
  • Dirmel Duchy
    • Tenhinver, 55,000
  • Mevesdor Duchy
    • Costarson, 38,000
  • Tylein Duchy
    • Barison, 27,000

History and Relations

The kingdom is around 450 years old, and was formed after the Benevis Empire broke apart in 550AL after the assassination of Emperor Halartus Benevarus. People from Arkein are a mix of Nor and Seleru ethnic groups, with mostly Seleru in the south. Relations with surrounding realms are mostly peaceful, though war has very recently broken out between Arkein and Velena, disrupting the northeastern border. Arkein mostly exports grain, marble, hides, and wine.

Military and Art

Most unique to Arkein are their marine soldiers, trained for combat on land and by sea. Their grand fleet is the largest in Benevis, and they boast strong naval artillery and a controlling naval presence. Prominent architectural features in Arkein include elaborate bridges and walkways, plazas, and defensive structures focussing on pragmatism over embellishment. Common artforms include performances, plays, festivals, and dramas.