Ilia
Ilia, often referred to as the Land of the Setting Sun, is a storied realm situated southwest of Denoa, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The principality is celebrated for its exquisite wines, aromatic spices, and the unparalleled skill of its swordsmen. Ilia's capital city, Sunguard, is a beacon of history and grandeur, characterized by its sun-bathed architecture and vibrant marketplaces. The city's name is a tribute to the nation's position as the last to see the setting sun, a symbol of its enduring legacy and timeless beauty.
Ilia is a land where the arts and elegance flourish alongside a profound martial tradition. This blend of culture and combat is epitomised in the practice of duelling, which is not only a popular pastime but a deeply ingrained aspect of Ilian society. The art of the duel is seen as both a sport and a discipline, a way to resolve disputes, prove honor, and demonstrate mastery. The finest swordsmen in Ilia, known as Sparrizios, are revered figures who train at the ancient academy of Barossa in the historic city of Lae Hanor. This academy, with its roots tracing back centuries, is a place of rigorous training where students learn the subtleties of swordplay, honour, and strategy. The Sparrizios are not only masters of the blade but also embody the ideals of courage, grace, and discipline.
The ruler of Ilia, High Prince Lazaro Casperio, governs from the capital with a keen eye for both tradition and progress. Under his rule, Sunguard thrives as a cultural and political hub, known for its stunning plazas, lush gardens, and the grandeur of the Prince's Palace. The High Prince is a patron of the arts and a supporter of the Sparrizios, ensuring that Ilia's rich traditions continue to flourish. The court of Ilia is a place of refinement and sophistication, where music, dance, and poetry are as integral to daily life as the training of the sword.
Ilia's women are famed across Veldia not only for their striking beauty—often characterised by flowing brown locks—but also for their fiery tempers and spirited nature. They are known to be as strong-willed and passionate as their male counterparts, playing active roles in both public life and the private sphere. The culture of Ilia encourages a balance of strength and grace, with women participating in the arts, politics, and even the martial traditions of the land.
Economically, Ilia is a major producer of fine wines and spices, commodities that are highly sought after in markets across the continent. The fertile valleys and temperate climate of the region are ideal for viticulture, and Ilian wines are celebrated for their rich flavours and aromatic qualities. The spice trade, centred in the bustling markets of Sunguard and Lae Hanor, is another cornerstone of Ilia's economy, bringing a variety of exotic and rare spices to the tables of Veldia.
Ilia's history is marked by a complex relationship with its neighbours. The nation is an old ally of Denoa, sharing cultural and economic ties that have strengthened over the centuries. However, Ilia also harbours an ancient feud with the Kingdom of Monavia, its neighbour across the Monavian Sea. This rivalry, rooted in historical conflicts and competing interests, occasionally flares into skirmishes and political tension. Despite this, Ilia maintains a strong and capable navy, safeguarding its coasts and trade routes against potential threats.
As Ilia moves forward, it continues to celebrate its rich traditions while adapting to the changing times. The Land of the Setting Sun remains a place where beauty, honour, and skill are held in the highest regard, and where the legacy of the past is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Whether through the artistry of its wines, the elegance of its duels, or the fiery spirit of its people, Ilia stands as a vibrant and enduring culture in the world of Veldia.
