Alaesia

The land of Alaesia is an old and storied one. Filled with magic and wonder, the world has many things to explore and conquer.   A largely multi-ethnic empire rules the land from the desert plains of the southwest, to the mountainous ranges of the snowy north. A fine river feeds the Great Delta, an area of rich farmland serving as the breadbasket of the realm. Along the coast sits a column of prosperous cities and sparkling trade routes. A Golden Age has provided many wonders, a catalyst for invention and social mobility it has supported a large bureaucracy that aids all its citizens against famine and disease. Additionally, several university towns were founded over the years to provide education for all, no matter the class.   The capital of Qorsas sits at the base of the Grand Delta connected by road and canal to every corner of the empire. Long has it been the seat of the Imperial Family, a noble stock with lowly roots, their founder having been an Silvan merchant who took over trading ports until he formed his own kingdom. His descendants grew in power and influences, expanding into an empire, and creating a land of great renown.    But darkness looms, the age of greatest emperors/empresses of Alaesia is over. The empire has emerged from the centuries long Golden Age as a series of corrupt and gluttonous rulers took power, seeping life from the efficient government. The bureaucracy grew lax, universities funded from the royal treasury lost their grants, meritocracy was slowly replaced by hereditary office, and bribes grow rampant. Along the islands of the sea and empire's coast grows a string of theft as pirates find trade ships easier to plunder as the Royal Fleet lies mothballed in ports. To the western desert Isauran nomads speak rumors of an old evil kingdom emerging from the sands; as ruins, long forgotten, are exposed by the wind. Incursions and rebellion from mountainous tribes to the North, who for so long served the empire of Alaesia so loyally now threaten common townsfolk. Plots are stirring and fear sets in.   All is not lost however, the young Prince Heir of the realm is a powerful figure, reminiscent of his many-so-great grandmother Empress Isabella. As he moves into prominence a light shines on his people. Dodging assassins and no-gooders, he is the first in a while to genuinely care about his people and strives to bring glory back to his family name.   The Empire is at a crossroads. Met with steady decline and rising conflicts, it also retains a strong economy and a fledgling prince. Something... or someone... will tip the balance. Either bringing Alaesia back to a resplendent Golden Age or by sending the realm into a death spiral. How will it end?