The Xethari Empire: The Jade Empire of the East

A Realm of Ancient Wisdom and Imperial Might

The Xethari Empire, often called the Jade Empire, is a vast and powerful dynasty that has stood for thousands of years, its roots tracing back to the legendary First Dragon Emperor, who united the warring states under the will of heaven. Rich in culture, philosophy, and martial discipline, the Xethari Empire is a land where harmony and order are paramount, and where the Jade Emperor’s word is law.   The empire follows the Celestial Path, a belief system centered around balance, duty, and divine mandate. The ruling Jade Emperor is said to be the chosen vessel of the Dragon Lords, rulers of the heavens, and as long as he maintains harmony, the empire shall prosper. However, if imbalance arises, it is believed that calamity—both mortal and divine—will descend upon the land.   From the towering pagodas of Jin’Xeth to the serene gardens of the imperial provinces, the Xethari Empire is a realm of beauty, discipline, and refinement. But beneath its surface lies intrigue and ambition, as rival factions within the imperial court, rebellious warlords, and unseen forces seek to test the empire’s strength.  

The Xethari Military: Masters of War and Discipline

The Xethari military is one of the most disciplined and strategic forces in Aldria, blending martial skill with ancient wisdom and mystical power.

• The Jade Legionnaires – Elite warriors clad in jade-infused armor, trained in both swordsmanship and tactics.
• The Dragon Riders of Xiang-Lung – An elite order of warriors who have bonded with lesser dragon beasts, using them in battle.
• The Stormcallers – Sorcerers who command the elements, summoning storms, fire, and celestial energy.
• The Shadow Claws – A secretive order of assassins and spies, masters of deception and silent warfare.

The empire believes in precision over brute force—every warrior is trained in multiple disciplines, from weapon mastery to strategy and philosophy. A battle is not won by strength alone, but by wisdom and patience.  

The Celestial Path: Faith and Philosophy

The Celestial Path governs all aspects of Xethari life, from rulership to daily existence. It is based on the principle of balance between Yin and Yang, the forces of creation and destruction, order and chaos. The gods of the Celestial Path, known as the Dragon Gods, watch over the empire, ensuring that the Jade Emperor rules in accordance with their will.

• Longshen, the Jade Dragon – The Lord of kingship, prosperity, and celestial order.
• Xun Lei, the Storm Serpent – The Lord of battle, storms, and righteous fury.
• Mei’lan, the Silent Crane – The Lord of wisdom, patience, and fate.

To disrupt balance is to invite catastrophe—civil unrest, war, or even divine retribution. The Celestial Priests and monastic orders work to ensure that harmony is preserved, guiding both rulers and commoners along the righteous path.  

Challenges Facing the Jade Empire

Though vast and powerful, the Xethari Empire faces many trials:

• The Rise of the Warlords – Though the empire is unified, rebellious warlords and rogue generals test the Jade Emperor’s authority, seeking to carve out their own kingdoms.
• Sorathi Corruption – The Sorathi Dominion, ever eager to expand its influence, sends shadowy envoys to corrupt officials and steal the empire’s secrets.
• The Valtherian Tension – The Valtherian Empire, seeing the Xethari as heathens outside their divine order, seeks to impose its influence over Xethari trade routes.
• The Slumbering Beasts – Ancient creatures, remnants of a forgotten age, stir beneath the mountains and rivers. Some believe the Dragon Lords themselves may test the empire soon.

Despite these threats, the Xethari people remain proud, disciplined, and resolute. They have survived for millennia, and they do not intend to fall now.