Arnheim

Pronunciation: ARN-hime

Map Index: B-5, C-5, C-6

Location: Arn River Valley, Northeastern Aorlan

Description: Settled within the scenic Arn River Valley, the human kingdom of Arnheim flourishes as a testament to resilience and ambition. The kingdom spans a diverse landscape, ranging from lush coastal meadows and fertile farmlands to dense forests and rolling hills, all connected by the mighty Arn River, which acts as the primary trade route within the great valley. The thriving cities of Arnheim include the grand island capital of Arnheim, where the royal court resides, as well as the fortified strongholds of Arnmorle and Norhaven, providing strategic stability in the central and western parts of the Arn River Valley.

Residents: Arnheim's inhabitants, descendants of resilient refugees from sunken lands across the sea to the east, have overcome countless hardships in the years following the Great Cataclysm. Arriving on the island of Arnheim as weary survivors from a great catastrophe, they now stand as the wealthiest and most powerful human kingdom in the known world. Their society is diverse, composed of skilled artisans, ambitious merchants, and valiant knights who embody a strong sense of loyalty and honor.

Primary Population: Arn
Secondary Population: Shenn
Minor Population: Ceodari, Draorn, Garuun, Half-Ghruz, Kharg, Kharz, Kishari, Valmyrri, Valtauri, Varynn

Government and Politics: Arnheim is a kingdom ruled by a hereditary king. The king is assisted by a Council of Lords which meets twice a year. The council is composed of dukes and eorls that have dominiom over the cities and major towns of Arnheim. The kingdom enjoys good relations with the other kingdoms along the Aorlan coast. Problems with piracy along the Aorlan coast continues to create major problems between Arnheim and the city-state of Khu. While they may not be directly engaging in piracy, Khu's ongoing pratice of providing pirates a safe haven and trading in stolen goods continues to inflame relations.

Economy: The kingdom's prosperity stems from a robust economy driven by trade along the Arn River. Arnheim's strategic location allows it to control and profit from the transit of valuable goods flowing through its waterways, ensuring a constant influx of wealth. The cities bustle with commerce, their marketplaces filled with exotic wares, bustling merchants, and vibrant cultural exchanges.

Military: Military strength lies at the heart of Arnheim's power. The kingdom boasts a formidable army, renowned for its well-trained knights, skilled archers, and disciplined foot soldiers. The walled cities of Arnmorle and Norhaven serve as bastions of defense, protecting the realm from external threats and preserving the kingdom's territorial integrity.

History: Arnheim's history is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. In the aftermath of the Great Cataclysm, the survivors united under a common cause, forging a new kingdom from the ashes. Through dedication, resourcefulness, and tenacity, they transformed their new home from a forested wilderness into a prosperous domain, overcoming adversaries and claiming their place among the great powers of the world.

Today: Today, Arnheim stands as a beacon of strength and prosperity, its cities teeming with life and its people proud and resilient. The kingdom's reputation as a hub of commerce and its military prowess ensures its continued dominance in the realm. As Arnheim looks to the future, its citizens strive to uphold their traditions and protect their hard-won prosperity, while remaining vigilant against any who would seek to challenge their status as the foremost human kingdom.

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