The Lore of the Rich Lands

What was once called the Rich Lands was the home of the ruling aristocracy.  Ruling because they thought it was their right.  Despite the fact that every other nation and state was relatively self-sufficient, they still paid taxes to the rulers of the Rich Lands.

This tax was really just a form of “protection”.  As long as the other states and nations paid their dues, they would not incur the wrath of the wealthy aristocracy’s armies.  This did cause some bitterness among the rulers of the smaller nations and states.  But it allowed them to live in relative peace and quiet without being troubled by the richest nobles.

Should a state or nation stop paying taxes, they would be sent a stern message.  This message was backed by 500 of the fiercest warriors of the Rich Lands.  Should the taxes still not be paid, the warriors would ravage the countryside and essentially bring the local economy to its knees.

As far as the nobles of the Rich Lands were concerned, it was their right to be paid the taxes.  They created the laws and upheld the peace.  This couldn’t be further from the truth.  As long as the taxes were paid, the separate states and nations never saw soldiers or any writs.

This ultimately led the other nations and states to form their own economies and local laws.  There have been minor skirmishes amongst them, however nothing of consequence that would bring the attention of the aristocracy.

The final benefit of the aristocracy being separated from the other nations by the Lightning Sea and the River Crystalis is that it opened up an opportunity for trade between the other nations and the Rich Lands.  Much wealth was poured into the separate states and nations, which fueled their local economies and allowed them to remain autonomous.  This autonomy has led to a rift being opened between the aristocracy and the other states and nations.  Should the lesser nations and states join forces, a coup could be had.

All it takes is for one spark to hit the right hay stack, and the lesser nations could rise together and topple the aristocracy.  Fortunately, nobody wants that much responsibility.

Posted By: EmmaEFX