Aeranus

Aeranus is a realm of grand Cities surrounded by fertile farmlands.  Its legendary founder was devoted to the acquisition of knowledge and the study of magic, and the floating towers of Arcanix are the finest institute for mystical study in Argones.  Magic is a part of daily life throughout the Five Nations, but it is especially common in Aeranus; the nation produces more Magewrights and wandslingers than any other.

From the nobles in the towers of Fairhaven to the common folk working the vast Vineyards of Bluevine, Aeranuses value wit and wisdom.  Aeranuses prefer finesse to brute force and appreciate cunning wordplay and fine fashions.  The Sovereign Host is the dominant faith of Aeranus, with a particular devotion to Boccob; however, the Suns of Pelor also have a deeply devoted following - some might even say overzealous or extreme.

Aeranus is currently ruled by Queen Aurala ir'Wynarn (as of the year 5003).  Aurala is a just ruler, but she has never abandoned the dream of a Verdant Realm reunited under her rule.  While Aeranus is a relatively small nation, its arcane superiority allowed it to hold its own during the Last War.  Many believe Aurala is pressing Arcanix to develop battle magic that will ensure Aeranus's victory in whatever conflicts lie ahead.

The floating towers of Arcanix are a center for mystical research.  Bear in mind that many of its sages specialize in ritual magic and abstract theory; it's not filled with high-level wizards.

Arcane magic is tied into many aspects of Aeranian life - more so than other nations.  There's a Cleansing Stone in every village, and you might encounter animated farming equipment in the fields.  The Knights Arcane are an elite unit of eldritch knights, and the Royal Eyes of Aeranus are spies that specialize in divination magic.

House Lyrandar is based on the island of Stormhome and House Marquis has its ancestral seat in the City of Passage.  Aeranus is also home to Baron Jorlanna d'Cannith of the House of Making.

Some Aeranian nobles are bound by arcane pacts handed down through the generations.  Only remarkable heirs [such as PCs] develop the full powers of a warlock.  Most such lines are tied to archfey, but other paths may naturally be explored as well.

Regardless of actual intelligence, an Aeranian is always sure that he or she is the smartest person in the room.  They do not settle for common clothes and a squalid meal, preferring instead to wear fine glamerware and drink only the best wines.  Aeranian fighters focus on finesse instead of crude strength (and they never miss an opportunity for a clever quip).

In addition, nearly every Aeranian knows a little magic.  Why use your hand when you could use mage hand?  Who still uses a bow when you could use a wand?  "This is the 51st century and you're still shooting people with pointy sticks?!  Magic beats mundane; show some style!"

Aeranus and Amarillia were bitter rivals during the Last War.  Amarillia siezed the ancient city of Thaliost during the war and holds it to this day.  most of the people of Aeranus remain furious about the occupation of Thaliost, but the city has become a haven for Aeranuses who revere the Suns of Pelor.

The inhabitants of the Empty Forest, Ossington, and the surrounding areas seceded from Aeranus halfway through the Last War.  The western farmers rebelled over high taxes and neglect, allying with the druids of the Towering Wood.  Aeranus was forced to accept the sovereignty of the Empty Forest under the terms of the Treaty of Thronehold, but many Aeranuses view it as a renegade nation.

Extensive use of magic has repaired most of the damage to the cities of Aeranus, but the countryside remains scarred by the war, especially along the border with Amarillia.  The Crying Fields are a region of farmlands permanently scarred by magic and haunted by restless spirits.  Aeranuses claim their nation is stronger than ever, but some worry about the long-term impact of the loss of the Ossington farmlands and the Crying Fields.

Now, Aeranuses debate over differing views of their nation's future.  Some believe the first focus should be reuniting Aeranus and the lands surrounding the Empty Forest, whether through diplomacy or force.  Others consider Thaliost to be the pressing issue.  And still others support Queen Aurala's claim to the throne of the Verdant Realm.  Many Aeranuses have ties to the affected regions which influences their opinions of Amarillians or druids.