Overview

Astana is the most mountainous region in the realm, with nearly 85% of its land rising hundreds of feet above sea level. While the rugged terrain can be challenging, the people of Astana have adapted well to their environment. Those living in higher altitudes are accustomed to the thinner air and steep slopes, while lowland residents enjoy life on plains, golden fields, and rolling hills. They face the constant presence of strong, unpredictable winds that sweep across the mountain slopes, a part of daily life in this unique landscape.  

Climate

Astana's climate is shaped by its varied landscape, which includes low plains on the outskirts and high peaks in the Astir Mountian Range. This diversity causes temperatures and weather to change noticeably over short distances, with cold and dry air in the inclines whilst warmer air traverses down and out to sea. The region's climate and agriculture are also heavily influenced by monsoon rains from the nearby seas of Lindin, which vary in timing and intensity.  

Natural Resources

The air region is famous for its innovative use of wind power, employing technologies like wind sails and rotating windcatchers to reliably drive various machines, including windmills. Astana, the heart of this region, is perpetually under the influence of an eternal storm swirling at its highest peak. The region's slopes and hills are rich in minerals such as coal, iron, and silver. Gypsum, in particular, is abundant and used for a wide range of purposes, from sculpting to making fertilizer and even preparing foods like beer, bread, and mead.

Astana is also renowned for its master weapon and armor smiths, whose world-class creations are highly sought after by warriors everywhere, often commanding premium prices. Beyond craftsmanship, Astana excels in global commerce and trade, maintaining its influence with the famous Freewind Express offices and griffon-riding messengers, ensuring swift communication and delivery abroad.  

Society

stana's culture and population are deeply shaped by geography. People are divided between the peaceful lowlands along the western and eastern coasts and the rugged, windy mountains.

In the lowlands, life is tranquil, with most towns centered around farming, livestock, and bustling marketplaces. By contrast, the mountainous regions require people to adapt to high altitudes and challenging terrain.

The noble heart of Astana, Drakengard is defined by honor and bravery. Its people take pride in their ancestors' legacy of resisting invasions and slaying the region's most feared dragon tyrant. The city is synonymous with its knightly order and reverence for spirits and figures representing valor, honor, and courage.

Known for its resilience, Zanhor is a kingdom of warriors. Its society is marked by a stark divide between wealthy aristocrats and their elite soldiers, and the struggling, marginalized populace relegated to the kingdom's hidden corners. It houses the historic legacy of the horse riding raiders and bandit lords that used to dominate the area.

A picturesque and modest kingdom, Arlona is a patchwork of farming and pastoral towns. Though once devastated by fire, it rebuilt with a focus on community, maintaining its charm and dedication to its people, even if it's once powerfu hold over much of southern Astana has faded.