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Primeva has a temperate climate. Its terrain is generally flat or gently rolling, with the exception of the northeastern region, which is mountainous. In ancient times, Primeva was covered in forests and bogs, but large tracts of land were cleared over the years for agriculture and settlement. Some sizable forests still remain. The most common types of trees are oak, birch, pine, maple, and hazel. In the mountainous northeast, the forests are distinguished by the more frequent presence of willows, as well as deep blankets of moss on the ground and the trunks of trees. Primevan fauna include deer, elk, wild boar, foxes, wolves, brown bears, martens, small wildcats, badgers, hares, and wood mice. Common birds seen in Primeva include partridge, blackbirds, woodpeckers, storks, owls, goshawks, and golden eagles.

The origins of the Royal Commonwealth of Primeva are shrouded in mystery. Surviving records, of which there are very few, tell the story of a great exodus of people from a land called "Arendelle." These people became known as the soegende, or "searchers." They eventually found their way to a new land, which they called "Primeva." The site of their landing on Jaria is now the city of Karlsby, named for the leader of this migration, Karl the Navigator.

The land "discovered" by the soegende was not uninhabited; there was a native population, who the Primevans called the Northuldra. Within a few generations, by a combination of choice and force, the Northuldra were completely assimilated into Primevan society. Their language, customs, and history are now mere academic curiosities.

It is unknown how exactly the Sellanders became the ruling dynasty, but that family's position as the rulers of Primeva appears very early in the existing records. After a time of internal turmoil in the medieval period, the King met with the greatest of the noble families in a ceremony known as the Haandfaestning, to establish a formal charter for the organization and governing of the realm. This feudal settlement remains the basis of government in Primeva today.

The monarch is the Head of State. The current monarch is the Queen Regent, Frida Sellander-Rosey. She has ruled since the death of her husband, King Gustav. The couple had two children: Crown Princess Signe (24) and Princess Cecilie (22). According to the laws of the Royal Commonwealth, the Queen Regent were rule until her eldest child turns 25, at which point she will be crowned as the new Queen.

Primeva has a formal aristocracy of titled nobility, made up of counts/countesses and barons/baronesses. The principal distinction between the two titles is the amount of land held by the family at the time of their ennoblement, with the title of count generally implying a larger landholding than baron. There is a third noble rank, duke/duchess, which is reserved for members of the royal family beyond the monarch, their consort, and their children (e.g. siblings of the monarch).

The monarch rules with the advice of the Council of the Realm. The Council consists of key government ministers, bishops, and members of the nobility. It is intended to both advise the monarch and act as a check on their potential despotism. New members of the Council are appointed by the monarch based on the recommendations of the other council members. The leader of the Council is the Steward of the Realm, who serves as Head of Government.

There is also a larger deliberative body, the Landsraad. Only landowners above a certain threshold may stand for election to the Landsraad or vote in those elections. The Landsraad does not generate legislation, but instead considers and votes on legislation created by the Council of the Realm. The approval of the Landsraad is necessary for any laws to go into effect. The leader of the Landsraad, chosen by and from among its members, is the Speaker. Since representation in the Landsraad is limited to landowners, and only certain landowners, it serves mainly as a means for the nobility and gentry to check the power of the monarchy to encroach on property rights, and maintain the economic and social status quo.

The current Steward of the Realm is Duke Konrad Sellander, the younger brother of the late King Gustav. The current Speaker of the Landsraad is Count Henrik Abelone. The other key members of the government are the Lord Treasurer, Mogen Bodil, who is responsible for the financial and economic well-being of the realm; the Foreign Minister, Baron Villum Rune, who is responsible for managing the international relations of Primeva; the Lord General, Count Frederik Preben, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Army; and the Lord Admiral, Baron Kennet Vibeke, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Navy.

The territory of Primeva is divided into a number of administrative units known as syssels (roughly equivalent to an English shire). Each syssel is itself made up of a varying number of herreds (hundreds), and each herred is in turn comprised of a number of sogns (parishes). The sogn is the smallest administrative division of the Royal Commonwealth, and each one is centered on a physical church. The parish church handles the registration of births, deaths, and marriages, and the parish council - made up of both local clergy and laymen - is responsible for local matters like schools, roads, and charity for the poor, elderly, and disabled. For religious organization, parishes are grouped together in a deaneries overseen by a provost, and each deanery belongs to a diocese overseen by a bishop.

The nobility rule over lens (fiefs) comprised of their family seat - this was once always a castle but more often now is a manor house - and a number of the surrounding herreds. The nobility have both the privilege and responsibility of administering the lands within their fief, including the collection of taxes, raising and maintaining a militia, and adjudicating legal matters. This often leads of conflicts over jurisdiction and responsibility between different nobles, between nobles and non-noble landowners, and between the nobility and the amtmaend, or civil servants, who have those responsibilities in the parts of the syssel not included in a noble fief.

Primevan society can be divided into several classes, defined by the amount of land their own: first are the lensmaend, or titled nobility. Second are the gardmaend, or large landowners - these are the gentry who own enough land to earn a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the boelsmaend, or smallholders. These are landowners who do not possess enough land to warrant a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the husmaend, or cotters. These are owners or tenants of cottages which might have a small piece of land attached, but not enough to serve as the main source of income. To support themselves and their families, they become craftsmen or work the lands of the larger landowners. At the bottom of the social hierarchy are the indsidders, or tenants. These are landless laborers who often work in exchange for housing.

A rising challenge to this system has come from the growth of urban bourgeoisie, who possess considerable wealth from trade or industry but not land and are thus excluded from the Landsraad and other means of participation in government, and generally looked down on by the landed aristocracy. The loudest voices calling for reform have come from this part of the population. More radical working-class activists are largely ignored, or suppressed by the state if they become too prominent.

Primeva's population is majority Lutheran, and the National Lutheran Church of Primeva is supported by the state. All Primevans, regardless of their religious affiliation, must pay as part of their taxes a tithe that goes to the financial support of the Church. The Church also has responsibility for maintaining vital records - all births, deaths, marriages, separations/divorces must be registered with the local church office, which in turn sends these records to a central repository in the capital. Only state-sanctioned churches may perform weddings or establish cemeteries. The Archbishop of the Church, Anders Mikkeline, also holds the position of Lord Justiciar, the chief judicial and legal officer of the government. Other religions are tolerated, but operate under financial and legal burdens and often face social stigma. Most notably is the Primevan Apostolic Church, an Anabaptist organized church. There are also the vanbroedre ("water brethren"). These are Anabaptists who broke with the Apostolic Church and live in communities that hold property in common. Their unusual way of life makes them a subject of both suspicion and mockery.

Primeva has a temperate climate. Its terrain is generally flat or gently rolling, with the exception of the northeastern region, which is mountainous. In ancient times, Primeva was covered in forests and bogs, but large tracts of land were cleared over the years for agriculture and settlement. Some sizable forests still remain. The most common types of trees are oak, birch, pine, maple, and hazel. In the mountainous northeast, the forests are distinguished by the more frequent presence of willows, as well as deep blankets of moss on the ground and the trunks of trees. Primevan fauna include deer, elk, wild boar, foxes, wolves, brown bears, martens, small wildcats, badgers, hares, and wood mice. Common birds seen in Primeva include partridge, blackbirds, woodpeckers, storks, owls, goshawks, and golden eagles.

The origins of the Royal Commonwealth of Primeva are shrouded in mystery. Surviving records, of which there are very few, tell the story of a great exodus of people from a land called "Arendelle." These people became known as the soegende, or "searchers." They eventually found their way to a new land, which they called "Primeva." The site of their landing on Jaria is now the city of Karlsby, named for the leader of this migration, Karl the Navigator.

The land "discovered" by the soegende was not uninhabited; there was a native population, who the Primevans called the Northuldra. Within a few generations, by a combination of choice and force, the Northuldra were completely assimilated into Primevan society. Their language, customs, and history are now mere academic curiosities.

It is unknown how exactly the Sellanders became the ruling dynasty, but that family's position as the rulers of Primeva appears very early in the existing records. After a time of internal turmoil in the medieval period, the King met with the greatest of the noble families in a ceremony known as the Haandfaestning, to establish a formal charter for the organization and governing of the realm. This feudal settlement remains the basis of government in Primeva today.

The monarch is the Head of State. The current monarch is the Queen Regent, Frida Sellander-Rosey. She has ruled since the death of her husband, King Gustav. The couple had two children: Crown Princess Signe (24) and Princess Cecilie (22). According to the laws of the Royal Commonwealth, the Queen Regent were rule until her eldest child turns 25, at which point she will be crowned as the new Queen.

Primeva has a formal aristocracy of titled nobility, made up of counts/countesses and barons/baronesses. The principal distinction between the two titles is the amount of land held by the family at the time of their ennoblement, with the title of count generally implying a larger landholding than baron. There is a third noble rank, duke/duchess, which is reserved for members of the royal family beyond the monarch, their consort, and their children (e.g. siblings of the monarch).

The monarch rules with the advice of the Council of the Realm. The Council consists of key government ministers, bishops, and members of the nobility. It is intended to both advise the monarch and act as a check on their potential despotism. New members of the Council are appointed by the monarch based on the recommendations of the other council members. The leader of the Council is the Steward of the Realm, who serves as Head of Government.

There is also a larger deliberative body, the Landsraad. Only landowners above a certain threshold may stand for election to the Landsraad or vote in those elections. The Landsraad does not generate legislation, but instead considers and votes on legislation created by the Council of the Realm. The approval of the Landsraad is necessary for any laws to go into effect. The leader of the Landsraad, chosen by and from among its members, is the Speaker. Since representation in the Landsraad is limited to landowners, and only certain landowners, it serves mainly as a means for the nobility and gentry to check the power of the monarchy to encroach on property rights, and maintain the economic and social status quo.

The current Steward of the Realm is Duke Konrad Sellander, the younger brother of the late King Gustav. The current Speaker of the Landsraad is Count Henrik Abelone. The other key members of the government are the Lord Treasurer, Mogen Bodil, who is responsible for the financial and economic well-being of the realm; the Foreign Minister, Baron Villum Rune, who is responsible for managing the international relations of Primeva; the Lord General, Count Frederik Preben, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Army; and the Lord Admiral, Baron Kennet Vibeke, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Navy.

The territory of Primeva is divided into a number of administrative units known as syssels (roughly equivalent to an English shire). Each syssel is itself made up of a varying number of herreds (hundreds), and each herred is in turn comprised of a number of sogns (parishes). The sogn is the smallest administrative division of the Royal Commonwealth, and each one is centered on a physical church. The parish church handles the registration of births, deaths, and marriages, and the parish council - made up of both local clergy and laymen - is responsible for local matters like schools, roads, and charity for the poor, elderly, and disabled. For religious organization, parishes are grouped together in a deaneries overseen by a provost, and each deanery belongs to a diocese overseen by a bishop.

The nobility rule over lens (fiefs) comprised of their family seat - this was once always a castle but more often now is a manor house - and a number of the surrounding herreds. The nobility have both the privilege and responsibility of administering the lands within their fief, including the collection of taxes, raising and maintaining a militia, and adjudicating legal matters. This often leads of conflicts over jurisdiction and responsibility between different nobles, between nobles and non-noble landowners, and between the nobility and the amtmaend, or civil servants, who have those responsibilities in the parts of the syssel not included in a noble fief.

Primevan society can be divided into several classes, defined by the amount of land their own: first are the lensmaend, or titled nobility. Second are the gardmaend, or large landowners - these are the gentry who own enough land to earn a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the boelsmaend, or smallholders. These are landowners who do not possess enough land to warrant a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the husmaend, or cotters. These are owners or tenants of cottages which might have a small piece of land attached, but not enough to serve as the main source of income. To support themselves and their families, they become craftsmen or work the lands of the larger landowners. At the bottom of the social hierarchy are the indsidders, or tenants. These are landless laborers who often work in exchange for housing.

A rising challenge to this system has come from the growth of urban bourgeoisie, who possess considerable wealth from trade or industry but not land and are thus excluded from the Landsraad and other means of participation in government, and generally looked down on by the landed aristocracy. The loudest voices calling for reform have come from this part of the population. More radical working-class activists are largely ignored, or suppressed by the state if they become too prominent.

Primeva's population is majority Lutheran, and the National Lutheran Church of Primeva is supported by the state. All Primevans, regardless of their religious affiliation, must pay as part of their taxes a tithe that goes to the financial support of the Church. The Church also has responsibility for maintaining vital records - all births, deaths, marriages, separations/divorces must be registered with the local church office, which in turn sends these records to a central repository in the capital. Only state-sanctioned churches may perform weddings or establish cemeteries. The Archbishop of the Church, Anders Mikkeline, also holds the position of Lord Justiciar, the chief judicial and legal officer of the government. Other religions are tolerated, but operate under financial and legal burdens and often face social stigma. Most notably is the Primevan Apostolic Church, an Anabaptist organized church. There are also the vanbroedre ("water brethren"). These are Anabaptists who broke with the Apostolic Church and live in communities that hold property in common. Their unusual way of life makes them a subject of both suspicion and mockery.

Primeva has a temperate climate. Its terrain is generally flat or gently rolling, with the exception of the northeastern region, which is mountainous. In ancient times, Primeva was covered in forests and bogs, but large tracts of land were cleared over the years for agriculture and settlement. Some sizable forests still remain. The most common types of trees are oak, birch, pine, maple, and hazel. In the mountainous northeast, the forests are distinguished by the more frequent presence of willows, as well as deep blankets of moss on the ground and the trunks of trees. Primevan fauna include deer, elk, wild boar, foxes, wolves, brown bears, martens, small wildcats, badgers, hares, and wood mice. Common birds seen in Primeva include partridge, blackbirds, woodpeckers, storks, owls, goshawks, and golden eagles.

The origins of the Royal Commonwealth of Primeva are shrouded in mystery. Surviving records, of which there are very few, tell the story of a great exodus of people from a land called "Arendelle." These people became known as the soegende, or "searchers." They eventually found their way to a new land, which they called "Primeva." The site of their landing on Jaria is now the city of Karlsby, named for the leader of this migration, Karl the Navigator.

The land "discovered" by the soegende was not uninhabited; there was a native population, who the Primevans called the Northuldra. Within a few generations, by a combination of choice and force, the Northuldra were completely assimilated into Primevan society. Their language, customs, and history are now mere academic curiosities.

It is unknown how exactly the Sellanders became the ruling dynasty, but that family's position as the rulers of Primeva appears very early in the existing records. After a time of internal turmoil in the medieval period, the King met with the greatest of the noble families in a ceremony known as the Haandfaestning, to establish a formal charter for the organization and governing of the realm. This feudal settlement remains the basis of government in Primeva today.

The monarch is the Head of State. The current monarch is the Queen Regent, Frida Sellander-Rosey. She has ruled since the death of her husband, King Gustav. The couple had two children: Crown Princess Signe (24) and Princess Cecilie (22). According to the laws of the Royal Commonwealth, the Queen Regent were rule until her eldest child turns 25, at which point she will be crowned as the new Queen.

Primeva has a formal aristocracy of titled nobility, made up of counts/countesses and barons/baronesses. The principal distinction between the two titles is the amount of land held by the family at the time of their ennoblement, with the title of count generally implying a larger landholding than baron. There is a third noble rank, duke/duchess, which is reserved for members of the royal family beyond the monarch, their consort, and their children (e.g. siblings of the monarch).

The monarch rules with the advice of the Council of the Realm. The Council consists of key government ministers, bishops, and members of the nobility. It is intended to both advise the monarch and act as a check on their potential despotism. New members of the Council are appointed by the monarch based on the recommendations of the other council members. The leader of the Council is the Steward of the Realm, who serves as Head of Government.

There is also a larger deliberative body, the Landsraad. Only landowners above a certain threshold may stand for election to the Landsraad or vote in those elections. The Landsraad does not generate legislation, but instead considers and votes on legislation created by the Council of the Realm. The approval of the Landsraad is necessary for any laws to go into effect. The leader of the Landsraad, chosen by and from among its members, is the Speaker. Since representation in the Landsraad is limited to landowners, and only certain landowners, it serves mainly as a means for the nobility and gentry to check the power of the monarchy to encroach on property rights, and maintain the economic and social status quo.

The current Steward of the Realm is Duke Konrad Sellander, the younger brother of the late King Gustav. The current Speaker of the Landsraad is Count Henrik Abelone. The other key members of the government are the Lord Treasurer, Mogen Bodil, who is responsible for the financial and economic well-being of the realm; the Foreign Minister, Baron Villum Rune, who is responsible for managing the international relations of Primeva; the Lord General, Count Frederik Preben, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Army; and the Lord Admiral, Baron Kennet Vibeke, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Navy.

The territory of Primeva is divided into a number of administrative units known as syssels (roughly equivalent to an English shire). Each syssel is itself made up of a varying number of herreds (hundreds), and each herred is in turn comprised of a number of sogns (parishes). The sogn is the smallest administrative division of the Royal Commonwealth, and each one is centered on a physical church. The parish church handles the registration of births, deaths, and marriages, and the parish council - made up of both local clergy and laymen - is responsible for local matters like schools, roads, and charity for the poor, elderly, and disabled. For religious organization, parishes are grouped together in a deaneries overseen by a provost, and each deanery belongs to a diocese overseen by a bishop.

The nobility rule over lens (fiefs) comprised of their family seat - this was once always a castle but more often now is a manor house - and a number of the surrounding herreds. The nobility have both the privilege and responsibility of administering the lands within their fief, including the collection of taxes, raising and maintaining a militia, and adjudicating legal matters. This often leads of conflicts over jurisdiction and responsibility between different nobles, between nobles and non-noble landowners, and between the nobility and the amtmaend, or civil servants, who have those responsibilities in the parts of the syssel not included in a noble fief.

Primevan society can be divided into several classes, defined by the amount of land their own: first are the lensmaend, or titled nobility. Second are the gardmaend, or large landowners - these are the gentry who own enough land to earn a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the boelsmaend, or smallholders. These are landowners who do not possess enough land to warrant a seat in the Landsraad. Then there are the husmaend, or cotters. These are owners or tenants of cottages which might have a small piece of land attached, but not enough to serve as the main source of income. To support themselves and their families, they become craftsmen or work the lands of the larger landowners. At the bottom of the social hierarchy are the indsidders, or tenants. These are landless laborers who often work in exchange for housing.

A rising challenge to this system has come from the growth of urban bourgeoisie, who possess considerable wealth from trade or industry but not land and are thus excluded from the Landsraad and other means of participation in government, and generally looked down on by the landed aristocracy. The loudest voices calling for reform have come from this part of the population. More radical working-class activists are largely ignored, or suppressed by the state if they become too prominent.

Primeva's population is majority Lutheran, and the National Lutheran Church of Primeva is supported by the state. All Primevans, regardless of their religious affiliation, must pay as part of their taxes a tithe that goes to the financial support of the Church. The Church also has responsibility for maintaining vital records - all births, deaths, marriages, separations/divorces must be registered with the local church office, which in turn sends these records to a central repository in the capital. Only state-sanctioned churches may perform weddings or establish cemeteries. The Archbishop of the Church, Anders Mikkeline, also holds the position of Lord Justiciar, the chief judicial and legal officer of the government. Other religions are tolerated, but operate under financial and legal burdens and often face social stigma. Most notably is the Primevan Apostolic Church, an Anabaptist organized church. There are also the vanbroedre ("water brethren"). These are Anabaptists who broke with the Apostolic Church and live in communities that hold property in common. Their unusual way of life makes them a subject of both suspicion and mockery.

Western coastline of Ebazia

Geography of Ebaiza

Ebaiza is an island nation. It features a temperate, Mediterranean subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers. The main land island is long and narrow, with a maximum elevation of 151 feet above sea level. It is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and its coastline features beautiful beaches, port cities, and cliffs.

Demographics

Ebaiza has a population of 600,000 as of the 2022 Royal Census. Of this population roughly 85% are native ethnic Ebaizans. The official and national language of the country is Ebaizese, which is spoken by 85% of the population. 90% of the country are followers of Christian Orthodox while 5% is Helionist and the remaining 5% are Other or Non-religious. Women outnumber men in Ebaiza 1.083 to 1. A major demographic concern is the shrinking number of young people in the country, with only about 15% of the population being under 14 year old, while 20% of the population is over the age of 65.

History

Evidence of human settlement on the islands date back to around 800 BC, with it theorized that the proto-Ebaizans arrived via sailing from the west. It is believed that before their arrival the islands were uninhabited. According to Ebaizan myth, these first humans who arrived on the islands date were born out of the union of Helion, the sun god and the mother of the sea, Lassora. According to the myth, Helion originally lived in the East and would fly across the sky on winged feet, while Lassora resided in the dark depths below the waves of her domain. One day, Lassora heard the sounds of the sea from avice and rose out of the waves to find birds singing mimicking the sound of the waves. Delighted she came ashore and befriended the ebaiza birds, from which Ebaiza gets its name from. While she listened to the song of the birds, Helion spotted her, and enchanted by her beauty, flew across the sky from the east to the west to meet her. The two fell in love and embraced one another in passion on the sea, Helion setting it to boil. This is the reason the waters around Ebaiza are said to be so clear and warm. Lassora later returned to her depth, and gave birth to the first humans, who rose out of the sea to bask in the light of their father. Helion choose make his new home in the west, and continues to fly across the sky and sink beneath the waves at the end of the day to reunite with Lassora beneath the waves.

This foundation myth continues to hold great importance to Ebaizan culture and identity— and is a corner stone of the Helionism religion which continues to worship the sun god by 5% of the population, mostly on the island of Veleria.

Throughout the Classical Period of Ebaiza, various separate city states ruled over the islands, forming into a loose confederacy in around 403 AD. The confederate cities of Ebaiza faced numerous raids and attacks by pirates and outside forces throughout the Middle Ages, that lead to the construction of large sandstone fortresses, the most famous of which are in Mirala (built atop a more ancient polis) and Kastalina (which has undergone major renovations in the 1500’s and 1700’s)

In the 1300’s the House of Rokanis, founded by Roka the Bold, first started using the title of Lords of Ebaiza, though their control was for generations limited largely to the southern half of Grand Ebaiza. This lordship would fight regularly with the confederate cities and foreign powers who sought to gain control over the islands. In the late 1400’s the Christian Orthodox tradition was introduced to the islands and quickly began to take hold leading to sectarian violence between the Orthodox and Helionists. Orthodox eventually became the dominate faith in the islands in the 1700s.

The Prince’s Palace

Ebaiza, particularly its wealthy elite, flourish as a protectorate and the warm and polite correspondence the prince kept with the Hospean Crown authorities lead to the island being nicknamed “The Cordial Islands”. New roads and a railway along the western coast were built. In 1890 the Council of Mirala recognized the equality of the two major faiths in the islands. Nationalist movements began to arise in 1907, not amongst the common people but amongst the wealthy landowners who felt stifled by protectorate trade limits. In 1908, rather than rally the people, who it was argued might seize control of the islands in a form of anarchy, the elites of the islands, sent familial representatives to Hospe to slowly lobby for their country’s independence. This lead to many elite children being sent to Hospean mainland schools, who were then brought back with higher education skills. Amongst these was the prince’s son Alarik Rokanis.

In 1912 Prince Velkian I after negotiating with an aging Queen Valerie I, issued the Unilateral Declaration of Ebaizan Independence, which secured Ebaiza’s sovereignty as an independent principality recognized by the international community. Hospe however would continue to hold influence over the newly independent island through the maintaining of its naval base in Ventro Súr. Ebaiza would use a local version of the Valerian iza, and would be lead by the Hospean educated native elite class. In 1922 Prince Alarik ascended the throne and during the Second Great Jarian War of the 1940s he would strategically keep Ebaiza neutral. This neutrality lasted until near the end of the war when Ebaiza suddenly declared war on Hospe, knowing they were on the back foot.

The Three Day War (officially the Ebaizan-Hospean War) is the only official war in modern Ebaiza’s history, and is noted for being entirely bloodless. With Hospean forces focused on defending a faltering war effort, the naval base at Ventro Súr had been left with little more than a skeleton crew of only about 10 men and a patrol boat. Figuring that the war would be over in a matter of days and wising to be on the side of the victors, Prince Alarik declared war. While this mostly a formality, Hereditary Prince Velkian (future Prince Velkian II) and several of his friends in the army took it upon themselves to take action, and captured the fort, arresting the Hospeans who surrendered without protest. However once in charge of the fort the hereditary prince and his soldiers took a liking to their “prisoners” and spent the remainder the war (two days) drinking and playing card games with them, and it’s been claimed that a group of women were invited into the fort to entertain them. Only two shots were fired in the entirety of the war, one by the hereditary prince who fired into the air to get the attention of the Hospean sentry, and a second when Corporal Kael Kalo’s gun accidentally went off while playing charades.

Far more importantly than the war itself was its political aftermath, when Prince Alarik was in attendance of the peace conference on the side of the victors. Despite Ebaiza’s late entry and small strategic impact, the prince was able to receive the concession of the naval base, ending the last vestige of Hospean influence over Ebaiza. However the cordial nature of the conflict lead to the two nations maintains friendly diplomatic relations to this day. During the reign of Prince Velkian II it was used as a naval academy and then turned into a museum in 2005. In 1962 Prince Velkian III, upon ascending the throne ended the absolute monarchy and adopted a new constitution for the principality, forming the National Assembly.

Ebaiza began to promote itself as a tourist destination and cultural heritage local, expanding the ports in Porto del Vaga, Ventro Súr and Ebaiza City in the 1970s and constructing the Velkian III International Aiport in 1994. The cost of the construction of the airport lead to a national financial emergency that lead to massive economic reforms in 2001, and the adoption of the new currency, the Ebaizan dira. In 2012 Prince Velkian III celebrated his Golden Jubilee. Upon his death in 2014, he was succeeded by his nephew, the current Prince Navron (46). In 2016 the prince’s cousin Vandros Rokanis rose to the position of Prime Minister, which he with support from his Royal Unity Party continues to hold.

With the rise of concerns over climate change, Ebaiza with its status as a small low lying island and with its natural beauty heavily connected to its tourism industry, has consistently dedicated itself to environmentalist protectionist policies.

Political Structure:

Head of State:
Prince/Princess of Ebaiza

The Prince (or Princess) of Ebaiza is both the ceremonial head of state and the symbol of national unity. The position is hereditary and is passed down through the royal family, which has a long history dating back to Ebaiza's founding. The Prince/Princess has powers that are largely symbolic, but they also hold significant influence in certain national matters, including diplomacy, defense, and national identity. While the role is ceremonial, the Prince/Princess is actively involved in the cultural, social, and economic life of the nation, representing Ebaiza in international forums and supporting key national projects.

National Assembly Building of Ebazia

Prime Minister:
The Prime Minister is the head of government and is responsible for the administration and day-to-day operations of the country. The Prime Minister is elected by the National Assembly and serves a five-year term. The Prime Minister has significant influence over economic policy, domestic issues, and foreign relations, although they must remain within the framework of the constitution and the Prince’s broader policy directions.

The National Assembly:
The National Assembly is the unicameral legislature of Ebaiza and consists of 75 members elected by the people through proportional representation. Members of the National Assembly serve four-year terms. The Assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and providing oversight of the executive branch. While the Prince has veto power over legislation, the National Assembly can override this veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

Judicial Branch:
The Judiciary of Ebaiza is independent and ensures that the laws passed by the National Assembly are in accordance with the Constitution. The Supreme Court of Ebaiza is the highest judicial body, consisting of nine judges who are appointed by the Prince with the consent of the National Assembly. Judges serve ten-year terms, with no reappointment allowed to ensure impartiality. The judicial system operates under civil law and is guided by both modern principles and Ebaizan tradition.

Political Parties:
Ebaiza has a multi-party political system, with several political parties that represent various ideologies, including center-right, center-left, liberal, and moderate conservative views.

• The Royal Unity Party (RUP): The dominant political party, with close ties to the monarchy. It emphasizes national identity, economic growth, and cultural preservation.

• The Progressive Alliance (PA): A center-left party advocating for social welfare, environmental protection, and progressive economic policies.

• Ebaizan Conservative Union (ECU): A conservative party focused on traditional values, national security, and family-based policies.

• The Green Coalition: A smaller party that champions environmental conservation, eco-tourism, and renewable energy solutions.

Constitution of Ebaiza:

The Constitution of Ebaiza is the foundational legal document of the island, establishing the principles of governance, the powers of the monarchy, the rights of the citizens, and the rules for the legislative and judicial branches. The Principality of Ebaiza guarantees basic rights to all its citizens, including freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to a fair trial. Environmental protection and sustainable development are central to the constitutional framework, reflecting the island’s strong commitment to preserving its natural beauty and resources.

Economy:

Major Industries:

• Tourism: Ebaiza is a popular destination for Meilluran tourism, attracting visitors for its coastal beauty, ancient history, and high-end resorts. Tourism is a major source of income, contributing around 30% of GDP.

• Agriculture: The island produces high-quality olives, citrus fruits, grapes, and wine, with agriculture making up about 20% of the economy.

• Shipping and Maritime Trade: Ebaiza’s ports are key hubs in the regional waters of Western Meillur, with shipping, fishing, and maritime transport playing a significant role.

• Renewable Energy: Ebaiza is investing in solar and wind energy, aiming to become a leader in sustainable energy in the region.

  Currency:

• The Ebaizan Dira (EBD), which is used for domestic transactions.

A Ebaizan couple in traditional folk dress

Ebaiza’s culture is marked by its deep connection with its home islands and nature. Its people share a deep connection to the ocean, with maritime traditions and fishing at the heart of their way of life. A great spiritual connection continues to exists between Ebaizans and the sun, with many phrases and cultural names having reference to the sun, sky and light. Ebaizans take great pride in their local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, citrus fruits, and olive oil, and is celebrated in lively community meals and festivals.

The island’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, from ancient port cities with whitewashed buildings to terraced vineyards that dot the landscape. Art is an essential part of Ebaizan life, with vivid local paintings, ceramics, and intricate woodwork that echo the island's natural beauty. Music and dance are central to cultural festivals, especially the various and numerous annual festivals and carnivals that fill out the Ebaizan social calendar. The Royal Family continues to serve as an important social center of society, attending festivals, art and technological exhibitions as well as conducting numerous charitable works. Family and community are paramount, and Ebaizan social life often revolves around gatherings at local markets, coastal towns, and seaside taverns, where traditions and stories are passed down through generations.

Cuisine

Ebaizan cuisine is a delightful fusion of local regional flavors with a distinct island twist, shaped by the fertile land, rich marine life, and centuries of cultural exchange. The cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally grown produce, olive oil, seafood, herbs, and citrus. With a focus on simple, flavorful dishes that highlight the island’s natural ingredients, Ebaizan food is both comforting and vibrant, often enjoyed in communal settings.

Key Ingredients:
Olives and Olive Oil: A staple in both cooking and dressings, often used in salads, marinades, and as a base for many dishes.
Seafood: Ebaiza’s coastal location means fish, shellfish, and squid feature prominently in the cuisine, often grilled or cooked in aromatic stews.
Citrus: Lemons, oranges, and limes are used to flavor dishes, add zest to sauces, or create refreshing drinks.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, and garlic are key seasonings, often combined with olive oil for marinades or dressings.
Fresh Vegetables: Tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini, and peppers are common, often roasted, grilled, or included in salads.
Cheese: Goat and sheep cheeses, often served fresh or used in pastries and savory dishes.

Signature Dishes of Ebaiza:

• Fennel & Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad featuring thinly sliced fennel, juicy citrus slices (often lemon and orange), fresh herbs, and a light olive oil dressing. It’s often served as an appetizer or side dish, perfect for the island's warm climate.

• Ebaizan Grilled Fish (Pesce alla Griglia): Fresh fish, typically snapper or bass, grilled with a marinade of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. It’s served alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grain, such as farro or couscous.

• Seafood Stew (Mollusca Stufata): A hearty, aromatic stew of mixed shellfish, squid, and fish, cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, olives, and a generous amount of white wine and olive oil. This dish is a beloved comfort food in coastal communities.

• Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma Ebaizana): Vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, currants, and fresh herbs, often served as an appetizer or side dish. Sometimes, small pieces of fish or lamb are added to the filling.

• Citrus-Infused Grilled Octopus: Octopus, tenderized and then grilled, marinated with lemon zest, olive oil, and oregano, and served with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice. The smoky flavor combined with the citrus tang makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Ebaizan Olive Tapenade: A rich spread made from locally grown olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil. It's typically served with freshly baked bread or as a topping for grilled fish or meats.

• Lemon-Herb Lamb Skewers (Kebabs): Tender lamb pieces marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and olive oil, then grilled on skewers. Often served with a side of couscous or a fresh tomato salad.

• Baklava Ebaizana: A local twist on the classic baklava, made with thin, flaky layers of pastry filled with crushed almonds, walnuts, and a syrup infused with citrus zest and honey, offering a light but sweet finish to meals.

• Ebaizan Flatbread (Pita Ebaizana): A round, soft, and slightly chewy flatbread often served with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or alongside grilled meats and seafood.

• Ebaizan Wine: Ebaiza is known for its high-quality wines, particularly white varieties made from local grapes. The island's vineyards produce crisp, citrusy wines that pair perfectly with seafood dishes. Local red wines, rich in flavor and fruit, also accompany heavier meals.

Desserts:
Lemon-Saffron Cake: A moist cake made with fresh lemon juice and a hint of saffron, offering a refreshing yet exotic sweetness, often paired with a glass of Ebaizan white wine.
Honey-Drenched Baklava: Flaky pastry filled with crushed almonds and pistachios, soaked in honey infused with orange blossom water, and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Citrus Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert made from locally grown citrus fruits, offering a sweet and tangy finish to meals.

Beverages:
Minted Lemonade: A refreshing, chilled beverage made from freshly squeezed lemons, mint, and a touch of honey, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
Ebaizan Wine: The island’s wineries produce a range of wines, with crisp whites and fruity reds that pair well with the island’s seafood-heavy cuisine.
Herbal Infusions: Locally brewed teas made from wild herbs like thyme, sage, and chamomile are popular for their soothing properties