The Robethan Empire

The Robethan Empire, once a beacon of power and influence, now stands on the brink of darkness and decay. Riddled with corruption and political intrigue, the empire has become a fractured realm of mistrust and danger. Neighboring countries view the Robethan Empire with a mix of apprehension and pity, recognizing its former glory while also perceiving it as a cautionary tale of power's corrupting influence. The empire's current state evokes a sense of pity, as its people suffer under a despotic regime and the shadowy machinations of the Mage Guild and the oppressive rule of the Arcanist Inquisition.

Landscape

The physical landscape of the Robethan Empire is a stark reflection of its current state. Once fertile lands now lie neglected and overgrown, their productivity stifled by the grip of corruption. Dilapidated castles and crumbling fortifications stand as haunting reminders of a bygone era, their grandeur now faded. The once-bustling cities are now shrouded in a palpable sense of despair, their streets filled with poverty-stricken masses and disillusioned citizens. The natural beauty of the empire, such as the majestic Robethan Mountains and the winding River Verdan, serves as a stark contrast to the darkness that has befallen the land.

History of the Robethans

The Robethan People

The Robethan People, the heart and soul of the empire, possess a rich and diverse cultural tapestry. They are a resilient and resourceful population, known for their enduring spirit and adaptability. The Robethan people take great pride in their craftsmanship, producing fine textiles, intricate tapestries, and exquisite metalwork that adorn the halls of nobles and commoners alike. They have a strong affinity for traditional folk music and dance, and their songs often speak of heroic deeds, tragic love stories, and the struggles of the common folk. Within the Robethan society, distinct social and cultural groups have emerged. The nobility, comprising wealthy landowners and influential families, hold considerable power and influence over the affairs of the empire. They engage in elaborate courtly rituals and lavish feasts, where political alliances are forged and broken amidst a backdrop of splendor and intrigue. The knights, revered for their martial prowess and chivalry, uphold a code of honor and dedicate themselves to the protection of the realm. Their ranks are filled with individuals who have proven themselves on the battlefield or through noble lineage.   The commoners, the backbone of Robethan society, form a vast majority and are deeply entrenched in rural life. They toil the fields, tend to livestock, and engage in various trades to sustain their families and contribute to the economic fabric of the empire. Guilds and associations of craftsmen, such as blacksmiths, weavers, and carpenters, play a vital role in upholding the economy and ensuring the quality of goods produced. Village fairs and markets bustle with activity, showcasing the fruits of labor and providing a social gathering place for people from all walks of life.  

Dawn of an Empire

The creation of the Robethan Empire can be traced back to the legendary figure of King Robert, from whom the empire takes its name. Robert, a charismatic and cunning leader, united disparate regions under a common banner through strategic alliances, military prowess, and shrewd diplomacy. He skillfully exploited the rivalries and divisions among neighboring kingdoms, fostering an environment where vassals and lords pledged their loyalty to him. The foundation of the empire was marked by a series of decisive battles and conquests. Robert's forces clashed with rival factions, securing victories that expanded the empire's territory and influence. His reign was defined by a vision of a unified realm, where law and order prevailed, and the prosperity of the empire's inhabitants was prioritized. The capital city of Robetha, a bustling center of commerce and culture, was established as a testament to the empire's grandeur and as a symbol of Robert's authority.   Under Robert's rule, the empire experienced a period of relative stability and growth. He instituted reforms that strengthened the central administration, established a system of governance, and implemented a legal framework that sought to ensure justice and fairness. The early years of the empire were characterized by efforts to consolidate power and establish a sense of Robethan identity among its diverse subjects.   As time passed, subsequent rulers built upon the foundation laid by King Robert, expanding the empire's borders through a combination of diplomacy, strategic marriages, and military campaigns. The empire reached its zenith under the reign of King Edmund I, who presided over a prosperous and influential realm. However, with the passage of years, corruption began to seep into the empire's core, leading to the tumultuous period that would shape its current state of unrest and danger.  

Conflicts both Foreign and Civil

  While conflict and instability had been present for generations, the reign of King Richard I became a turning point in the empire's history. His aggressive pursuit of territorial expansion ignited conflicts with neighboring Dagmas, leading to prolonged wars that drained the empire's resources and destabilized its political landscape. Rumors of Richard's illegitimacy further fueled tensions, resulting in a brief but intense civil war that shattered the empire's stability. It was in this era of chaos that corruption seeped into the empire's core, giving rise to the secretive and powerful Mage Guild, who sought to reclaim the banned arts of magic. The establishment of the Arcanist Inquisition followed, as a response to the increasing fear and distrust of magic within the empire.   Today, the Robethan Empire stands as a shadow of its former self, its once-great reputation tarnished by corruption and internal strife. The fate of the empire hangs in the balance, as whispers of rebellion and the longing for change grow louder among the oppressed masses. The road to redemption and restoration seems treacherous, but there may still be glimmers of hope for those who dare to challenge the dark forces that hold the empire captive.  

The Past 200 Years of Monarchs

Over the course of the past 200 years, the Robethan Kingdom has witnessed a tumultuous journey, marked by political intrigue, wars, and a gradual descent into darkness.  

Monarchs

King Alistair I (ruled for 20 years) ascended to the throne during the kingdom's golden age, a period marked by prosperity and relative peace. However, his weakness and susceptibility to manipulation paved the way for corruption to take root. It was under his rule that the Rebellion of the Commons erupted, driven by the common people's discontent with heavy taxation and exploitation by the corrupt nobility. Though brutally suppressed, the rebellion left scars that would fuel future conflicts.   Queen Elara (ruled for 15 years) came to power through a web of political intrigue, displaying cunning and ruthlessness. Her reign was characterized by the consolidation of power through the elimination of rivals, while corruption and backstabbing became the norm within the noble factions. The Mage Guild rose in prominence during her reign, seeking to reclaim the banned magical arts, which further fueled paranoia and fear among the ruling class.   King Edward I (ruled for 25 years), faced a succession crisis and civil unrest upon ascending to the throne. Noble factions vied for control, leading to intense power struggles and open conflict. The kingdom was plunged into a series of brutal wars as rival claimants fought for the crown.   King Stephen I (ruled for 10 years) emerged victorious from the succession crisis but faced a kingdom torn apart by war. His reign was defined by the reconstruction of war-torn regions, efforts to heal the wounds of division, and the strengthening of the Noble Council to restore order. However, corruption still permeated the kingdom's halls of power.   King Richard I (ruled for 35 years) followed, ascending the throne amidst whispers of illegitimacy and contested claims. His reign was marked by a delicate balance of power and conflicts with neighboring realms. King Richard I's pursuit of territorial expansion led to strained relations with Dagmas, sparking prolonged conflicts that strained the kingdom's resources and stability.   Queen Matilda (ruled for 20 years) followed, inheriting a kingdom weary from years of war. Known for her intelligence and diplomatic finesse, she sought to rebuild diplomatic relations, strengthen alliances, and restore the Robethan Kingdom's reputation. However, corruption continued to fester within the noble factions, posing a constant threat to stability.   King Edmund II (ruled for 15 years) came to the throne after Queen Matilda's death. Inspired by the English King Edward II, his reign witnessed the tightening grip of corruption, as noble factions engaged in a constant struggle for power and control. Magic, long outlawed and despised, was reinforced as illegal under his rule. The ban on magic led to the establishment of the Arcanist Inquisition, tasked with hunting down illegal practitioners.  

Houses

Throughout this 200-year history, numerous noble families rose and fell in prominence, their allegiances shifting as power ebbed and flowed. Notable houses included House Thorne, known for their strategic prowess and manipulation of the king's court; House Blackthorn, notorious for their ruthless ambition and connection to the Mage Guild; and House Ravenswood, a once-respected family tarnished by scandal and conspiracy.   As the Robethan Kingdom now stands on the precipice of chaos and uncertainty, King Edward II's ability to navigate the treacherous landscape of corruption and restore faith in the monarchy will determine the kingdom's ultimate fate. Will he rise above the shadows of his predecessors and lead the kingdom towards a brighter future, or will he succumb to the insidious influences that have plagued the realm for generations?