Gradia is the wealthiest of the human Kingdoms. It is positioned in a great place, both along the coast, and near the northern swamps, where rare alchemical plants grow. As if that alone wasn't an incredible source of income, the kingdom was founded on the coastline itself, with some of the largest shipyards in Auzera being present here.
Peoples of all races congregate here, welcomed by the city itself. It is the most tolerant of the three, so much so that the elven kingdom of Eshma Thalas allows them to bring their ships into their harbors, as long as no humans leave the docks. This kingdom is led by a council, headed up of the powerful families of Gradia, and the well respected and rich Baron Giraldus.
History[]
Early History[]
It is unknown where the first peoples of Gradia hailed from. Such information has been lost, all that is known is they came by ship, and were not of Auzera. The crew that was stranded here quickly had their dismay stripped away, as they found a fertile coastline, many trees good for ships, and swamps filled with exotics.
Instead of rebuilding their ships, the crew decided on a vote to remain here, and settle. The crew quickly wound up abandoning the old hierarchy, and settled for more of a commune, eventually making a small village with all they needed. Soon after, they came into contact with the elves of Eshma Thalas, and to the elves' surprise, were elated to meet people so graceful they could walk on water. The elves, confused but amused to meet humans that weren't as the other Kingdoms, decided to help Gradia in return for trading rights.
Overtime, more ships arrived in the Third Era, more people flocked from the mainland, and the city became a Kingdom. All types were welcome here, curious elves, exiled dwarves, hobbits and the like. None were forsaken, and by the time the Third Era came to an end, Gradia was well established.
Recent History[]
The Creation of the Council[]
Before the Baron and his council took power, Gradia was ruled by a man believed to be mad, Viscount Dafydd. The Viscount would round up those he believed to be trying to usurp his power, and have them tied to the prows of his merchant fleets, heads just low enough to drag through the water as the ship sailed. If the doomed did not drown, the heat, and constant reflection from the water would dehydrate them, and they would die a slow, painful death.
The thing that riled up these families enough to storm the palace and murder then entire royal family was that...no one has conspired against the Viscount. He saw shadows on the walls that weren't there, and enemies around every corner. Why that is no one knows. But everyone knows it was Baron Ottmar Giraldus who ended it.
The Council[]
There are several powerful families that make up members of the merchant council that rule Gradia. They are:
- Cristofyre Dynasty
- Phareman Dynasty
- Albot Dynasty
- Linet Dynasty
- Giraldus Dynasty
It is ruled by the noble families who overthrew the previous royal family in a violent coup. Surprisingly, once the dust settled, the province came to immediate peace, and soon after, prosperity. The leader of this Council is Baron Ottmar Giraldus, a man with 2 daughters. The second most powerful dynasty in Gradia is Cristofyre.
The council of Gradia has always been more interested in peace, and never created a standing army. Therefore they use their incredible wealth to hire and maintain a large number of mercenaries that act as a private guard, Mostly hired in companies to maintain a watchful eye towards Agmurdrod, the home of the Orc ruins and badlands.
Baron Ottmar Giraldus[]
The Baron is a powerful man, and known for his sense of business, and being able to buy out anything he desires with his silver tongue. His daughters, Hosanna and Yda, are not treated like traditional women of a powerful family, married off to form alliances. They run both the harbor, and his merchant fleet. They are business oriented, and their names are well known to sailors as two women who are as dangerous as they are attractive. Anything ship or trade related has to go through them, and any merchant late or off course dreads having to report it to either of them.
Present Day[]
Gradia is a hub for adventurers and explorers. Many people use this harbor Kingdom as a staging ground for forays north, into the swamplands for alchemical compounds and ingredients, or the crazier of them, those who wish to range far north, into the lands of Moro-Gorath. Expeditions and adventurers often are never heard from again, between the treacherous journey and the orcs of Agmurdrod.
These Orcs are large, and powerful, and often can be seen hunting in large groups for undefended folk gathering in the swamps, or trying to sneak through their lands. The orc-folks are a constant threat, and Gradia would be in serious danger… if it wasn't for the the many mercenary companies that guard her against such things. The Council of Gradia is wealthy indeed, and they only buy the most esteemed mercenaries available to safeguard their borders and the council from harm, and more importantly, Orcs.
Geography[]
The Kingdom of Gradia is located on the south of Auzera, along the coast. Most of its territory is warm, and temperate, but the northern half of Gradia is swamp and marshlands. It is mostly uninhabited, but there are many alchemists that reside there to take advantage of these marshes. Rare plants and components grow in these places, and can sell for a good amount of coin.
However, the swamps of Gradia are home to many strange predators, and even worse, Orcs spilling over from their territories to the north. The combined dangers make the marshlands incredibly dangerous, but many lose their lives anyway, pursuing that which is seen as so valuable. People travel from all over to settle in Gradia, not only for a chance to make an above average living due to local prosperity, but also for life at sea.