things to know before u read part 2

The Human Empire

The Human Empire is a vast and powerful dominion divided into 16 states, each governed by one of six noble families who answer directly to the Emperor. These noble houses hold immense political and military influence, but their power is not without its challenges.

The Six Noble Families and Their Domains

Ravenhert – Governs four states:

Castle Grave – A desolate borderland overshadowed by the Forsaken Forest, a cursed expanse crawling with nightmarish creatures. Due to constant monster attacks, the population has dwindled, and only the desperate or foolish remain. The once-proud fortresses now stand in ruins, and the only human presence consists of hardened warriors, outlaws, and mercenaries hired to keep the horrors at bay.

Highvale – While slightly safer than Castle Grave, it remains plagued by bandit raids. These ruthless marauders strike swiftly, looting settlements before vanishing into the dense, mist-laden depths of the Forsaken Forest. Highvale's people live in constant fear, never knowing when the next attack will come. Despite this, the land is fertile, and its proximity to trade routes makes it valuable—if only it were more secure.

Storm watch – A coastal state known for its treacherous seas and relentless storms. Its port city, Iron Tide, was once a thriving trade hub but now struggles due to piracy, corrupt officials, and unpredictable weather. The navy is stretched thin, trying to combat sea raiders while maintaining order on land. However, Storm watch is home to some of the most skilled sailors and shipbuilders in the empire.

Golden Wave – Once called "the land that grows gold", Golden Wave was famed for its endless fields of wheat and bountiful harvests. But something changed. The soil turned barren, and a mysterious plague took root. Crops withered, rivers dried, and entire villages succumbed to strange illnesses. Many fled, leaving behind ghost towns and empty farmlands. Scholars and priests whisper of a curse, an unseen blight that festers beneath the earth.

Despite controlling the most states, House Ravenhert's power is fragile, as their lands are beset by relentless conflict, mysterious calamities, and dwindling resources.

Valmont – Governs three states:

Oakland – A thriving region filled with vast oak forests and rich mines. Lumber, iron, and gold fuel its economy, making House Valmont one of the wealthiest noble families. However, rumors of a hidden rebellion stir within its labor camps.

Raven Fort – A heavily militarized region that acts as a defensive bastion for the empire. Its fortresses and watchtowers are near impenetrable, and its soldiers are among the finest. However, the rigid laws and endless conscription have caused unrest among the common folk.

Welford – A prosperous trading state, home to vast marketplaces, bustling ports, and exotic goods from across the world. However, its wealth has also made it a breeding ground for criminal syndicates and political scheming.Draven – Governs three states:

Liftin – A frigid, mountainous territory where only the strongest survive. The people of Liftin are known for their resilience, but avalanches and harsh winters make life unforgiving.

Dragon Spine – Named after its jagged mountain ranges, said to be the remains of a slumbering dragon. It is a land of ancient ruins, hidden caves, and lost relics, drawing treasure hunters and scholars alike.

Groot Woods – A dense, dark forest where mysterious disappearances are common. Superstition runs deep, and even the bravest knights hesitate to venture too far into its shadowy depths.

Laverick – Governs three states:

Rinasita – A cultural hub, known for its grand theaters, libraries, and academies. It is the heart of the empire's arts and intellect, yet its nobility is entangled in endless political intrigue.

Dust veil – A vast desert region filled with ancient ruins and nomadic tribes. Water is more valuable than gold here, and mercenary groups rule the dunes.

Lone Mesa – A rocky expanse of towering plateaus and hidden canyons. The people here are fiercely independent and known for their masterful horsemanship.

Castellano – Governs two states:

Etsuro – A prosperous state inspired by Eastern cultures, filled with elegant palaces, cherry blossom groves, and skilled sword masters.

duskland – A land of misty valleys and sprawling tea plantations, yet plagued by shadowy assassin guilds and corrupt warlords.

Rosenthal – Governs one state:

Hoshin – A solitary island state known for its isolationist policies, formidable navy, and mystic traditions. Though small, it commands great respect due to its elite warriors and unmatched espionage network.

House Ravenhert's Struggles

Though House Ravenhert holds the most territory, its dominion is riddled with endless hardships:

Castle Grave & Highvale act as a natural border against the Forsaken Forest, where unspeakable monsters roam.

Castle Grave is nearly abandoned, its few remaining inhabitants either warriors sworn to hold the line or criminals with nowhere else to run.

Highvale, while more habitable, remains a constant battleground between bandits and desperate defenders.

Golden Wave, once the empire's agricultural heart, has turned into a barren wasteland, its people stricken by a mysterious illness that scholars and priests alike fail to cure.

Storm watch, plagued by violent storms, corrupt merchants, and relentless piracy, is a state on the brink of chaos.