Kingdom of Astalore
The Kingdom of Astalore is at the center of Antoran conflict and politics. It is the region’s largest native state and a strict hereditary monarchy. Astalore is a traditional society, conservative and rigid, which views social and political reform as dangerous and disruptive. In fighting is common within Astalore, with local lords being largely left to their own devices so long as their feuds do not interfere with the crowns policies or commands. Astalore is Entador’s sister nation and bitter rival, split over issues of faith.
Social status is strictly defined in Astalore with a series of ranks and titles, presented in order from lowest to highest rank: knight, baron, count, duke and king. Beyond these titles, the King also names a Champion, Marshall, and Prophet. The Champion is primarily an honorary position, acting as a soft of adviser for the knights of the realm. The Marshall leads the Kingdom in war and is generally appointed by the King for the length of a campaign. The Prophet is a lifetime appointment and acts as the Kingdom’s religious leader and liaison to the Church of Valra.
Serfdom is common in Astalore, and there are few opportunities for upward mobility. Some young people turn to mercenary work to advance their lot in life, others seek an apprenticeship, as crafts are held in high regard for their practical use. Astalore frequently persecutes any religion or faith outside the Church of Valra. Paradoxically, while women legally speaking hold all the same rights as men, in practice discrimination runs rampant among the upper echelons of nobility. Some even condone this inequality under the guise of religious conservatism.
Astalore contends for control of the holy city of Servadova. Within the city, Retterbrand is enshrined, which is sacred to both the Church of Valra and to practitioners of Primordial Worship. Control of Servadova is bitterly contested by Astalore and Entador, who have warred on numerous occasions to capture the city, or advance their strategic position to that end. As of 535, Servadova remains in Astalorian hands.
Astalore is currently ruled by King Godwin II. King Godwin II inherited the throne from his grandfather King Godwin I, skipping an entire generation and leaving his claim to the throne in question. His uncle Prince Roderick contends the throne from exile in Entador. Astalore’s most prominent noble families are House Alban, House Mulgrave, House Silverspring, House Baymont, House Lyndmere, House Markshire, and House Hayward. The colors of Astalore are red and gold.
Astalorian soldiers typically wear red uniforms, often with pointed helmets and darkened metal armor. They often wield pikes, and bows. Their military makes heavy use of cavalry.