Highguard territories - Revision history

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Synod" to "[[Synod"

2026-01-15T21:28:27Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Synod" to "[[Synod"

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:28, 15 January 2026
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	Necropolis has themes of '''sorrow''' and also '''mystery'''. The Necropolis itself is the heart of the territory, and a reminder of the dangers of a lack of [[Vigilance]] can lead to. After all, the Necropolis was once Pharos - the capital of the Highborn - until it was destroyed by a civil war that grew out of corruption, indolence, and arrogance. The barriers between the living and the dead are thin here, and this means that of all the Highborn territories it is perhaps the most magical in nature. It's also where the Highborn first settled, and is steeped in history - a character who wants to explore the complex relationship between Highborn history and truth could find an appropriate home here.		Necropolis has themes of '''sorrow''' and also '''mystery'''. The Necropolis itself is the heart of the territory, and a reminder of the dangers of a lack of [[Vigilance]] can lead to. After all, the Necropolis was once Pharos - the capital of the Highborn - until it was destroyed by a civil war that grew out of corruption, indolence, and arrogance. The barriers between the living and the dead are thin here, and this means that of all the Highborn territories it is perhaps the most magical in nature. It's also where the Highborn first settled, and is steeped in history - a character who wants to explore the complex relationship between Highborn history and truth could find an appropriate home here.

	The territory is sparsely settled, and has a slightly exaggerated reputation for being full of ghosts. The Necropolis itself is strongly associated with the study of [[Winter magic]], and this is an excellent territory for a chapter that is interested in magic to be based. A [[magister]] will be right at home here, and there is plenty of space to maintain [[mana site\|mana sites]]. As with Bastion it is also a good choice for a [[congregation]]. In the case of Necropolis, however, the priests have a tendency to be more practical than political in nature - their congregations are more important for allowing them access to the [[liao]] they need to practice their [[Religious skills\|ceremonies]] than for the votes they provide in the [[~~Imperial~~ Synod]].		The territory is sparsely settled, and has a slightly exaggerated reputation for being full of ghosts. The Necropolis itself is strongly associated with the study of [[Winter magic]], and this is an excellent territory for a chapter that is interested in magic to be based. A [[magister]] will be right at home here, and there is plenty of space to maintain [[mana site\|mana sites]]. As with Bastion it is also a good choice for a [[congregation]]. In the case of Necropolis, however, the priests have a tendency to be more practical than political in nature - their congregations are more important for allowing them access to the [[liao]] they need to practice their [[Religious skills\|ceremonies]] than for the votes they provide in the [[Synod]].

	===Being from Reikos===		===Being from Reikos===

Hailmur: /* Highborn Territories in Play */

2025-03-17T00:13:29Z

Highborn Territories in Play

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:13, 17 March 2025
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	Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.		Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.

	Highguard elections are ~~only partially~~ based on ~~considerations of~~ territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is [[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the ~~[[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|National Assembly]] - every~~ Highborn ~~character~~ with a [[congregation]] can take part regardless of their home territory - but the actual candidates are put forward by the chapters based in the territory that is being elected. As a result ''where you are from'' can still effect your ability to take part in politics.		Highguard elections for its senators are based on territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is [[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the Highborn of the territory with a [[congregation]].

	You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.		You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.

	Each of the four territories has certain themes, which are often used as a starting point when plot writers create plot. Furthermore, certain personal resources lend themselves to certain territories better than others. These are suggestions, however, rather than hard and fast rules. In particular, the personal resources of [[congregation]] and [[military unit]] are appropriate to any of the four Highborn territories - although it's still a good idea to flavour your resource to reflect the individual character of your home territory.		Each of the four territories has certain themes, which are often used as a starting point when plot writers create plot. Furthermore, certain personal resources lend themselves to certain territories better than others. These are suggestions, however, rather than hard and fast rules. In particular, the personal resources of [[congregation]] and [[military unit]] are appropriate to any of the four Highborn territories - although it's still a good idea to flavour your resource to reflect the individual character of your home territory.
	===Being from Bastion===		===Being from Bastion===
	Bastion is the heart of Highguard, and has themes of '''faith''' and '''destiny'''. The most important settlement is without doubt the city that shares its name with the territory - the White City of Bastion. There is something of an echo of the real-world Vatican about the White City - it is the centre of a ~~world-wide~~ faith after all. It's also a politically charged place - the Highborn see themselves as the shepherds of human destiny, but not everyone agrees as to where that destiny might lead.		Bastion is the heart of Highguard, and has themes of '''faith''' and '''destiny'''. The most important settlement is without doubt the city that shares its name with the territory - the White City of Bastion. There is something of an echo of the real-world Vatican about the White City - it is the centre of a worldwide faith after all. It's also a politically charged place - the Highborn see themselves as the shepherds of human destiny, but not everyone agrees as to where that destiny might lead.

	Outside the city, this is a very civilised territory. It is widely settled, and even its woodlands tend to be reasonably safe. Bastion is not much troubled by bandits or monsters, for example. The key conflicts in Bastion are likely to come through disagreements with fellow Highborn, or with people of other nations who question the assumption that Highguard should guide the future of the Empire.		Outside the city, this is a very civilised territory. It is widely settled, and even its woodlands tend to be reasonably safe. Bastion is not much troubled by bandits or monsters, for example. The key conflicts in Bastion are likely to come through disagreements with fellow Highborn, or with people of other nations who question the assumption that Highguard should guide the future of the Empire.
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	Reikos is about '''loss''' and '''new beginnings'''. The largest remaining settlement in Reikos is High Chalcis, but it is a shadow of its former self. For fourteen years, it was occupied by the [[Druj]] orcs - orcs known for their cruelty. The people were mercilessly dominated, enslaved, forced to work until they dropped, and slaughtered if they showed the slightest sign of rebellion. Hundreds were killed as an example, or a threat, or on a whim. The territory itself was ravaged from one end to another, ruined, and rebuilt in as a corrupt mirror of what it had once been. After the liberation, the signs of the occupation were washed away by the tide of [[A_season_of_mushrooms\|Llofir's magic]], but the scars on the souls and memories of those who experienced them first hand will not be healed so easily.		Reikos is about '''loss''' and '''new beginnings'''. The largest remaining settlement in Reikos is High Chalcis, but it is a shadow of its former self. For fourteen years, it was occupied by the [[Druj]] orcs - orcs known for their cruelty. The people were mercilessly dominated, enslaved, forced to work until they dropped, and slaughtered if they showed the slightest sign of rebellion. Hundreds were killed as an example, or a threat, or on a whim. The territory itself was ravaged from one end to another, ruined, and rebuilt in as a corrupt mirror of what it had once been. After the liberation, the signs of the occupation were washed away by the tide of [[A_season_of_mushrooms\|Llofir's magic]], but the scars on the souls and memories of those who experienced them first hand will not be healed so easily.

	Without a doubt, Reikos is the best ~~for~~ for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the ~~triple~~ threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande~~, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode~~ are ~~all~~ good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.		Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the double threats of the Forest of Peytaht and the vallorn of Brocéliande are both good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.

	{{Highguard Links}}		{{Highguard Links}}

Hailmur at 10:58, 26 January 2024

2024-01-26T10:58:20Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:58, 26 January 2024
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	Necropolis is a land of sorrow, first and foremost. Poets wax lyrical about the sad grandeur of the landscape, but even the least sensitive sometimes have to suppress a shiver at the realisation of their own mortality. Yet the sorrow of Necropolis is tempered with the knowledge that all things pass - that sorrows teach valuable lessons, and that loss is part of life. Even the most bustling chapterhouse in Necropolis will contain some memento mori, some little touch that is ignored consciously but that subconsciously reminds them every day that people die.		Necropolis is a land of sorrow, first and foremost. Poets wax lyrical about the sad grandeur of the landscape, but even the least sensitive sometimes have to suppress a shiver at the realisation of their own mortality. Yet the sorrow of Necropolis is tempered with the knowledge that all things pass - that sorrows teach valuable lessons, and that loss is part of life. Even the most bustling chapterhouse in Necropolis will contain some memento mori, some little touch that is ignored consciously but that subconsciously reminds them every day that people die.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=~~Regions of Reikos~~.~~jpg~~\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Reikos}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofReikos.png\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Reikos}}
	==[[Reikos]]==		==[[Reikos]]==
	This formerly peaceful stretch of the Couros river was once known for its pleasant gardens, gentle parks, and beautiful countryside. It became wealthy thanks to the bounty of stone and wood from the [[Vigilant Swan]] and the [[Great Forest at Reikos\|Great Forest]]; herbs from the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]]; trade with [[Therunin]] and [[Morrow]]; and from the beauty that made it a favourite place for Imperial citizens from across the Empire to convalesce after illness, or to spend time away for the cares of everyday life. Then the [[Druj]] came, and after them the merciless rejuvenating power of the [[eternal]] [[Llofir]], and the face of Reikos was changed perhaps forever.		This formerly peaceful stretch of the Couros river was once known for its pleasant gardens, gentle parks, and beautiful countryside. It became wealthy thanks to the bounty of stone and wood from the [[Vigilant Swan]] and the [[Great Forest at Reikos\|Great Forest]]; herbs from the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]]; trade with [[Therunin]] and [[Morrow]]; and from the beauty that made it a favourite place for Imperial citizens from across the Empire to convalesce after illness, or to spend time away for the cares of everyday life. Then the [[Druj]] came, and after them the merciless rejuvenating power of the [[eternal]] [[Llofir]], and the face of Reikos was changed perhaps forever.

Rafferty at 15:52, 19 February 2020

2020-02-19T15:52:33Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:52, 19 February 2020
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	Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.		Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.

	~~[[Category:Hearth Magic]]~~		{{Highguard Links}}

Rafferty at 15:52, 19 February 2020

2020-02-19T15:52:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:52, 19 February 2020
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	Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.		Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.
	~~[[Category:Highguard]]~~
	[[Category:~~Nations~~]]		[[Category:Hearth Magic]]

Noserenda: /* Highborn Territories in Play */

2020-01-15T20:35:32Z

Highborn Territories in Play

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:35, 15 January 2020
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	Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.		Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.

	Highguard elections are only partially based on considerations of territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is[[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|National Assembly]] - every Highborn character with a [[congregation]] can take part regardless of their home territory - but the actual candidates are put forward by the chapters based in the territory that is being elected. As a result ''where you are from'' can still effect your ability to take part in politics.		Highguard elections are only partially based on considerations of territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is [[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|National Assembly]] - every Highborn character with a [[congregation]] can take part regardless of their home territory - but the actual candidates are put forward by the chapters based in the territory that is being elected. As a result ''where you are from'' can still effect your ability to take part in politics.

	You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.		You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.

Dre at 16:17, 11 November 2018

2018-11-11T16:17:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:17, 11 November 2018
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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Regions of Reikos.jpg\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Reikos}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Regions of Reikos.jpg\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Reikos}}
	==[[Reikos]]==		==[[Reikos]]==
	This formerly peaceful stretch of the Couros river was once known for its pleasant gardens, gentle parks, and beautiful countryside. It became wealthy thanks to the bounty of stone and wood from the [[Vigilant Swan]] and the [[Great Forest at Reikos\|Great Forest]]; herbs from the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]]; trade with [[Therunin]] and [[Morrow]]; and from the beauty that made it a favourite place for Imperial citizens from across the Empire to convalesce after illness, or to spend time away for the cares of everyday life. Then the [[Druj]] came, and after them the merciless rejuvenating power of the [[~~eternals\|~~eternal]] [[Llofir]], and the face of Reikos was changed perhaps forever.		This formerly peaceful stretch of the Couros river was once known for its pleasant gardens, gentle parks, and beautiful countryside. It became wealthy thanks to the bounty of stone and wood from the [[Vigilant Swan]] and the [[Great Forest at Reikos\|Great Forest]]; herbs from the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]]; trade with [[Therunin]] and [[Morrow]]; and from the beauty that made it a favourite place for Imperial citizens from across the Empire to convalesce after illness, or to spend time away for the cares of everyday life. Then the [[Druj]] came, and after them the merciless rejuvenating power of the [[eternal]] [[Llofir]], and the face of Reikos was changed perhaps forever.

	Today Reikos is in flux. The chapters that fled are returning, those that weathered the storm are rebuilding. The parks and gardens are gone, overwritten with new forest or drowned in blood during the war and subsequent liberation. A malign [[Druj miasma\|miasma]] still clings to the hidden places where the Druj performed their abominable rites, while the desperate spirits of those who fell to their blades continue to haunt the living. Perhaps the beauty of Reikos may be restored, tempered by the knowledge of how fragile it is. Perhaps the new Reikos will be a darker place forged in bitterness and loss.		Today Reikos is in flux. The chapters that fled are returning, those that weathered the storm are rebuilding. The parks and gardens are gone, overwritten with new forest or drowned in blood during the war and subsequent liberation. A malign [[Druj miasma\|miasma]] still clings to the hidden places where the Druj performed their abominable rites, while the desperate spirits of those who fell to their blades continue to haunt the living. Perhaps the beauty of Reikos may be restored, tempered by the knowledge of how fragile it is. Perhaps the new Reikos will be a darker place forged in bitterness and loss.

Dre at 15:00, 16 August 2018

2018-08-16T15:00:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:00, 16 August 2018
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	Casinea has themes of '''tradition''' and the '''vigilance''' required to protect those traditions. The most important settlement in Casinea is without doubt Anvil - the political heart of the entire Empire - which contributes to the undercurrents of conflict and suspicion in the territory. It is easy for visitors to forget that Anvil is by no means a truly Highborn settlement - and several of the chapters here look askance at the unvirtuous behaviour that takes place there during the seasonal Summits. There are deep divisions beneath the surface of Casinea - between the prosperous chapters of the east and the insular chapters of the west, as well as between the traditional, insular chapters and those who embrace the benefits of being part of the larger Empire. Historically, Casinea is where the Highborn fought other humans - the people of Dawn, the Navarr, even the Marchers on occasion.		Casinea has themes of '''tradition''' and the '''vigilance''' required to protect those traditions. The most important settlement in Casinea is without doubt Anvil - the political heart of the entire Empire - which contributes to the undercurrents of conflict and suspicion in the territory. It is easy for visitors to forget that Anvil is by no means a truly Highborn settlement - and several of the chapters here look askance at the unvirtuous behaviour that takes place there during the seasonal Summits. There are deep divisions beneath the surface of Casinea - between the prosperous chapters of the east and the insular chapters of the west, as well as between the traditional, insular chapters and those who embrace the benefits of being part of the larger Empire. Historically, Casinea is where the Highborn fought other humans - the people of Dawn, the Navarr, even the Marchers on occasion.

	Casinea is a good choice for chapters that are interested in sources of raw materials - especially [[mine\|mines]] but also [[forest\|forests]]. This is also a territory with a long history of trading with other nations. With the proximity of [[the League]], the regular influx of traders and travellers heading to [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]], and the completion of the [[Blood Red Roads]] it makes an excellent choice for a character or chapter interested in [[business]].		Casinea is a good choice for chapters that are interested in sources of raw materials - especially [[mine\|mines]] but also [[forest\|forests]]. This is also a territory with a long history of trading with other nations. With the proximity of [[the League]], the regular influx of traders and travellers heading to [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]], and the completion of the [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] it makes an excellent choice for a character or chapter interested in [[business]].

	===Being from Necropolis===		===Being from Necropolis===

Rafferty at 08:22, 6 April 2018

2018-04-06T08:22:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:22, 6 April 2018
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	==Overview==		==Overview==
	Highguard dominates the southern Empire. Bastion is the heart of their nation, a civilised and well-settled land of wide plains dotted with well-tended woodlands. Wherever they go, the Highborn bring civilisation - even the sparsely populated forests and fields of Necropolis are liberally scattered with chapterhouses that protect the people from threats internal and external alike. Their cities lie along the length of the river Couros; from the [[Necropolis#The Necropolis\|Necropolis]] at the river’s mouth, past the rich and fertile fields and plains to the holy city of [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|Bastion]], and then up past [[Reikos#High Chalcis\|High Chalcis]] to the very eaves of the Great Forest of Peytaht.		Highguard dominates the southern Empire. Bastion is the heart of their nation, a civilised and well-settled land of wide plains dotted with well-tended woodlands. Wherever they go, the Highborn bring civilisation - even the sparsely populated forests and fields of Necropolis are liberally scattered with chapterhouses that protect the people from threats internal and external alike. Their cities lie along the length of the river Couros; from the [[Necropolis#The Necropolis\|Necropolis]] at the river’s mouth, past the rich and fertile fields and plains to the holy city of [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|Bastion]], and then up past [[Reikos#High Chalcis\|High Chalcis]] to the very eaves of the [[Great Forest of Peytaht]].
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofBastion.png\|align=left\|width=300\|link=Bastion}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofBastion.png\|align=left\|width=300\|link=Bastion}}
	==[[Bastion]]==		==[[Bastion]]==

Dre at 22:10, 2 April 2018

2018-04-02T22:10:52Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:10, 2 April 2018
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	Bastion presents the calm, serene visage of the Highborn to the world. After the civil war, the White City was built on the banks of the Couros as the heart of a reborn nation.Bastion is also seen as the heart of [[the Way]]; followers all over the world look to it for guidance and it is a place of pilgrimage for the faithful. Faith, politics, and the manifest destiny of the Highborn are all bound up in the fabric of Bastion.		Bastion presents the calm, serene visage of the Highborn to the world. After the civil war, the White City was built on the banks of the Couros as the heart of a reborn nation.Bastion is also seen as the heart of [[the Way]]; followers all over the world look to it for guidance and it is a place of pilgrimage for the faithful. Faith, politics, and the manifest destiny of the Highborn are all bound up in the fabric of Bastion.

	During the founding of the Empire, Bastion very nearly became the "official" capital of the Empire in 3YE; at the last minute the Senate decided to hold their quarterly gatherings in [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]] instead. Outside ~~it's~~ walls, beautiful rolling plains are dotted with woodlands and carefully maintained parks. When [[Reikos]] fell to the [[Druj]], Bastion suddenly found itself on the front lines. Many of the chapterhouses in the northern regions in particular still have a strong military aspect, although now that Reikos has been liberated this may change.		During the founding of the Empire, Bastion very nearly became the "official" capital of the Empire in 3YE; at the last minute the Senate decided to hold their quarterly gatherings in [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]] instead. Outside its walls, beautiful rolling plains are dotted with woodlands and carefully maintained parks. When [[Reikos]] fell to the [[Druj]], Bastion suddenly found itself on the front lines. Many of the chapterhouses in the northern regions in particular still have a strong military aspect, although now that Reikos has been liberated this may change.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofCasinea.png\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Casinea}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofCasinea.png\|align=right\|width=300\|link=Casinea}}

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	Each of the four territories has certain themes, which are often used as a starting point when plot writers create plot. Furthermore, certain personal resources lend themselves to certain territories better than others. These are suggestions, however, rather than hard and fast rules. In particular, the personal resources of [[congregation]] and [[military unit]] are appropriate to any of the four Highborn territories - although it's still a good idea to flavour your resource to reflect the individual character of your home territory.		Each of the four territories has certain themes, which are often used as a starting point when plot writers create plot. Furthermore, certain personal resources lend themselves to certain territories better than others. These are suggestions, however, rather than hard and fast rules. In particular, the personal resources of [[congregation]] and [[military unit]] are appropriate to any of the four Highborn territories - although it's still a good idea to flavour your resource to reflect the individual character of your home territory.
	===Being from Bastion===		===Being from Bastion===
	Bastion is the heart of Highguard, and has themes of '''faith''' and '''destiny'''. The most important settlement is without doubt the city that shares its name with the territory - the White City of Bastion. There is something of an echo of the real-world Vatican about the White City - it is the ~~center~~ of a world-wide faith after all. It's also a politically charged place - the Highborn see themselves as the shepherds of human destiny, but not everyone agrees as to where that destiny might lead.		Bastion is the heart of Highguard, and has themes of '''faith''' and '''destiny'''. The most important settlement is without doubt the city that shares its name with the territory - the White City of Bastion. There is something of an echo of the real-world Vatican about the White City - it is the centre of a world-wide faith after all. It's also a politically charged place - the Highborn see themselves as the shepherds of human destiny, but not everyone agrees as to where that destiny might lead.

	Outside the city, this is a very civilised territory. It is widely settled, and even its woodlands tend to be reasonably safe. Bastion is not much troubled by bandits or monsters, for example. The key conflicts in Bastion are likely to come through disagreements with fellow Highborn, or with people of other nations who question the assumption that Highguard should guide the future of the Empire.		Outside the city, this is a very civilised territory. It is widely settled, and even its woodlands tend to be reasonably safe. Bastion is not much troubled by bandits or monsters, for example. The key conflicts in Bastion are likely to come through disagreements with fellow Highborn, or with people of other nations who question the assumption that Highguard should guide the future of the Empire.
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	Casinea has themes of '''tradition''' and the '''vigilance''' required to protect those traditions. The most important settlement in Casinea is without doubt Anvil - the political heart of the entire Empire - which contributes to the undercurrents of conflict and suspicion in the territory. It is easy for visitors to forget that Anvil is by no means a truly Highborn settlement - and several of the chapters here look askance at the unvirtuous behaviour that takes place there during the seasonal Summits. There are deep divisions beneath the surface of Casinea - between the prosperous chapters of the east and the insular chapters of the west, as well as between the traditional, insular chapters and those who embrace the benefits of being part of the larger Empire. Historically, Casinea is where the Highborn fought other humans - the people of Dawn, the Navarr, even the Marchers on occasion.		Casinea has themes of '''tradition''' and the '''vigilance''' required to protect those traditions. The most important settlement in Casinea is without doubt Anvil - the political heart of the entire Empire - which contributes to the undercurrents of conflict and suspicion in the territory. It is easy for visitors to forget that Anvil is by no means a truly Highborn settlement - and several of the chapters here look askance at the unvirtuous behaviour that takes place there during the seasonal Summits. There are deep divisions beneath the surface of Casinea - between the prosperous chapters of the east and the insular chapters of the west, as well as between the traditional, insular chapters and those who embrace the benefits of being part of the larger Empire. Historically, Casinea is where the Highborn fought other humans - the people of Dawn, the Navarr, even the Marchers on occasion.

	Casinea is a good choice for chapters that are interested in sources of raw materials - especially [[mine\|mines]] but also [[forest\|forests]]. This is also a territory with a long history of trading with other nations. With the proximity of [[the League]], the regular influx of traders and ~~travelers~~ heading to [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]], and the completion of the [[Blood Red Roads]] it makes an excellent choice for a character or chapter interested in [[business]].		Casinea is a good choice for chapters that are interested in sources of raw materials - especially [[mine\|mines]] but also [[forest\|forests]]. This is also a territory with a long history of trading with other nations. With the proximity of [[the League]], the regular influx of traders and travellers heading to [[Casinea#Anvil\|Anvil]], and the completion of the [[Blood Red Roads]] it makes an excellent choice for a character or chapter interested in [[business]].

	===Being from Necropolis===		===Being from Necropolis===
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	Reikos is about '''loss''' and '''new beginnings'''. The largest remaining settlement in Reikos is High Chalcis, but it is a shadow of its former self. For fourteen years, it was occupied by the [[Druj]] orcs - orcs known for their cruelty. The people were mercilessly dominated, enslaved, forced to work until they dropped, and slaughtered if they showed the slightest sign of rebellion. Hundreds were killed as an example, or a threat, or on a whim. The territory itself was ravaged from one end to another, ruined, and rebuilt in as a corrupt mirror of what it had once been. After the liberation, the signs of the occupation were washed away by the tide of [[A_season_of_mushrooms\|Llofir's magic]], but the scars on the souls and memories of those who experienced them first hand will not be healed so easily.		Reikos is about '''loss''' and '''new beginnings'''. The largest remaining settlement in Reikos is High Chalcis, but it is a shadow of its former self. For fourteen years, it was occupied by the [[Druj]] orcs - orcs known for their cruelty. The people were mercilessly dominated, enslaved, forced to work until they dropped, and slaughtered if they showed the slightest sign of rebellion. Hundreds were killed as an example, or a threat, or on a whim. The territory itself was ravaged from one end to another, ruined, and rebuilt in as a corrupt mirror of what it had once been. After the liberation, the signs of the occupation were washed away by the tide of [[A_season_of_mushrooms\|Llofir's magic]], but the scars on the souls and memories of those who experienced them first hand will not be healed so easily.

	Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. ~~Tematically~~ Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of ~~Broceliande~~, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.		Without a doubt, Reikos is the best for for a chapter or individual interested in herbs and [[herb garden\|herb gardens]]. The presence of the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] gives an immediate benefit to anyone who maintains a herb garden. Thematically Reikos was not only a place of healing but was occupied by the Druj - experts in herb lore. it is also a particularly good fit for a martial chapter - the triple threats of the Forest of Peytaht, the vallorn of Brocéliande, and the presence of Llofir in Tamarbode are all good reasons for the captains of [[military unit\|military units]] to take an interest in Reikos.
	[[Category:Highguard]]		[[Category:Highguard]]
	[[Category:Nations]]		[[Category:Nations]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:35, 15 January 2020
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	Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.		Every Highborn [[chapter]] is located in a single territory. During character creation, you select your [[Territory#Home_Territory\|home territory]] - the territory where your [[Resource#Personal_Resource\|personal resource]] is located - and under normal circumstances this would be the territory where your chapter is based.

	Highguard elections are only partially based on considerations of territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is[[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|National Assembly]] - every Highborn character with a [[congregation]] can take part regardless of their home territory - but the actual candidates are put forward by the chapters based in the territory that is being elected. As a result ''where you are from'' can still effect your ability to take part in politics.		Highguard elections are only partially based on considerations of territory. The [[senator]] for each territory is [[Highguard_leadership#Leading a territory\|decided]] by the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|National Assembly]] - every Highborn character with a [[congregation]] can take part regardless of their home territory - but the actual candidates are put forward by the chapters based in the territory that is being elected. As a result ''where you are from'' can still effect your ability to take part in politics.

	You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.		You don't need to declare which [[Territory#Regions\|region]] you live in, but it's often useful for your group to define the location of your chapterhouse for purposes of plot, and for making the game world feel more real. You might live in or near one of the established settlements, but your chapterhouse could be built anywhere in the territory - the named villages and towns are by no means the only settlements in Highguard! Your character background, or your group background, can include a few details about your home if you like, and many chapterhouses come with their own small settlement that looks to them for protection and guidance.