AoA: Chapter 1 -
The world of Arden

Another World

Arden is an earth –like world featuring a variety of wonderful & dangerous flora and fauna. Flowing through the world of Arden is a powerful and mysterious energy known as Ki, which alters matter and energy in unique ways. Ki energy is especially present in deposits of agates known as ‘Kievacite’. 

Arden features various climates; colder regions exist near the poles, and at higher altitudes. Warmer climates exist towards the planet’s equatorial line. There are 5 major continents, as well as various islands and island chains.  

Population

The sentient life on Arden consists primarily of a large population of humanoid life, collectively referred to as Aban.

The Aldin: A mysterious and long-lived people, rumored to be immortal. Rarely seen away from their homeland, The Aldin can be distinguished by their unusually tall and slender appearance. Their skin, hair and eye color seem to vary as much as that of the more common Kan-Folk, despite their apparently sparse population. They can be aloof to the point of snobbery or even prejudice, but younger Aldin are often more open-minded.

Kane’/ Li’Kan: Inhabitants of the continents of Sekai and Thule, Kan-Folk represent the most homogeneous populations. They have a natural lifespan of about 90 years and though they vary greatly in the appearance of their skin, eye, and hair color, they generally possess relatively moderate physical builds.

Yera:  Their long practice of isolation in the extreme environment of Yerchaka has given the Yera people an unusual appearance compared to the rest of Arden’s population. Bright skin tones of varying colors and sharply pointed ears have caused many to assume that the Yera are a fearsome and brutal race. This reputation seems fine by the Yera leaders, however undeserved, as long as it keeps outsiders away from their borders. 

Heltzeme: Heltzeme comprises the second largest population of Arden, primarily dwelling in the continent of Zeme. Generally olive-skinned, as well as short and stocky in appearance compared to Kane’ or Aldin. Heltzem grew to be about half the height of the average Kan-Folk. Throughout their history, there is a pattern of escalating conflict between the Heltzem of Northern Zeme, and those of the South, though they seem to maintain peaceful relationships with other nations, for the most part. They are informally, and sometimes insultingly, referred to as ‘Half-Kan’.

Runa: The tallest and perhaps physically strongest people of Arden, Runa are native to the western continent of Orado. They are dark in complexion. The Runa could be considered a group of warriors, though they seem to boast an enlightened philosophy and appear to have a peaceful relationship with The Aldin.

Rarer are the various species of ‘animal-folk’ who, aside from their intelligence and propensity towards walking upright, are almost completely animal-like in their appearance and disposition. Animal-Folk generally live in small, hidden, villages or nomadic groups comprised of their own ‘kind’ (for example, pig-folk live together in small groups and do not generally socialize or reside with other types of animal-folk, especially those who might correspond to the predators of their ‘lesser’ animal counterparts). Animal-folk tend to be reclusive and may try to hide their existence from the Aban completely.

Global History

The known history of Arden spans a period of approximately 4,000 years. All pre-historical events are generally referred to as the

Unknown Eras. Recorded history began around the time that written language was developed among the tribes of the Heltzem. The

recorded history of Arden is analyzed broadly under 3 major periods of development: The Ancient Era (AE), The Middle Era (ME),

and The Global Era (GE). These Eras are divided by significant events in Arden’s history, such as the development of new technology

or changes in culture. 

Unknown Eras: Various geological and environmental disturbances and changes which have led Arden to its current state. Many different kinds of monstrous prehistoric creatures roam Arden freely during this time. Humanoid populations are theorized to have emerged at some point during this time, though accounts vary based on limited archeological data, as well as local cultural and religious beliefs. Some evidence suggests that these people travel in Nomadic tribes and a cohesive spoken language, which will later be known as ‘High Arde’, is developed. 

The Ancient Era; Year 1 to Year 2000: Culture: Some Nomadic tribes transition into permanent and semi-permanent settlements. Agriculture is introduced. High Arde is developed into a written ‘glyph’ language and quickly becomes adopted by various tribes and clans. Most architecture consists of simple stone and wooden structures. Superstitions give way to more structured religious beliefs. Loosely affiliated settlements begin in Thule, Yerchaka and Sekai.

The Middle Era; Year 2000 to Year 4000: Living in villages and large cities becomes the norm. Metalwork is discovered. High Arde diverges into multiple offshoot languages. Stonework is more intricate, marble is used. Aesthetics become more important. Weaving is invented, leather is used for shoes and protective wear. The beginnings of government and rule of law are introduced as populations increase. State rule is solidified early in this period. Military technology is developed at a rapid pace as feuding rulers increase their armies. Powerful Empires begin to form as these states come under centralized control and are prominent around the year 3000.    

The Global Era; Year 4000 to Year 4500: Increased technological capabilities begin globalization, cultures become less isolated. Industrialization leads to improvements in transportation and communication technology. Buildings are more functional. Comfortable housing becomes widely available. Clothing becomes more fashion oriented, with various cultural variations. Mass-production creates changes and improvements in general living conditions and global communication, but creates unique social and environmental problems such as pollution, and economic inequality. 

Regional History

The Northern Valley: A land whose borders are impassable by outsiders. It goes by many names: “The Ancient Land”, “The Valley of Arden”, among others. Only the Aldin reside here. 

Climate: Uniquely warm, supporting lush and varied vegetation. This is deemed unusual considering the valley’s position in the high north.

Political Structure: The social and political structure is somewhat cryptic.  They report virtually no disruptive elements in their society, have no concept of social class, and do not use currency, suggesting that they are a highly egalitarian society. However the Aldin are, in general, highly religious and also express a great amount of reliance on their elders for guidance.

People & Culture: Aldin, meaning ‘Ancient Ones’ is in fact a name given by outsiders. It has been observed that they are extremely long-lived.  They are highly spiritual people, appearing to value strong ethical and religious tenets. The Aldin claim that they are immortal, and that this is a natural result of living in harmony with nature as ‘The End’ (God) intended. These claims are of course doubted by many, though no one has been able to prove otherwise. Regardless, due to their age and apparent wisdom, there is much myth and speculation surrounding Aldin. 

Although individual Aldin are known to roam the outside world, no one besides the Aldin has visited their homeland, and their border is said to be passable by none except them. It seems that only ‘young’ Aldin visit other lands, and that an interest in the world outside their homeland, while apparently not forbidden, is seen by their elders as a sign of immaturity.

When away from their valley, some Aldin prefer to blend into the general population in order to avoid unwanted attention. However, certain features can give them away such as their unusual slenderness, height, and slightly pointed ears. Their eyes, hair, and skin color seems to vary widely. Some have rumored that there seems to be a perceptible “glow” around an Aldin, though this seems to be anecdotal. Many Aldin are as critical of other cultures as they are curious.

Fashion: Though they are thought of as having a great sense of aesthetics, The Aldin have always been known to dress in robes, or other simple garments with very minimal design.

Notable Locations: Unknown 

Northeastern Continent: Thule

Climate: Mountainous and cold, but interspersed with lush valleys which support rich agriculture and large population centers.

Political Structure: Over time, the various territories within the continent of Thule became controlled by a single government; the Thule Empire. The Emperor is the official ruling member of the Empire, and is supported by a group of rulers known as Polyarchs, with each territory in Thule ruled by a three-seat consul, which is in turn accountable to the national counsel which rules from the capitol city, Heilenheim. Though the Military has historically been under the direct command of the Emperor, the late Middle-Era and early Global-Era saw a shift in power giving greater control to the Polyarchs. Citizens are known as Thulians. 

People & Culture:  Populated primarily by the Li’Kan, and a few Heltzem, Thule is arguably the fastest developing country in Arden. Resource-rich valleys have become the basis for major cities and advanced industrialization. Though much of the progress of Thule is driven by harsh, colonialist tendencies throughout history, Thule’s international policies have become more congenial. Citizens of Thule tend to be class-conscious. The strong cultural interest in philosophy and the arts sometimes conflicts with a sense of pride and loyalty to the state. 

Fashion: A resource-rich economy allows for a sense of ornate fashion with quickly shifting trends. 

Notable Locations: 

Feinshore, a coastal city

Heilenheim, the massive Thule Capitol

Elven, The river bordering Thule and Northern Zeme

Northwestern Continent: Orado

Climate: Varied: Some forests and marshlands, other areas are arid and deserted. Rich mineral and Kievacite deposits, as well as temperate coastal areas support a mining industry and a rapidly growing population.

Political Structure: The native ‘giants’ of Orado, the Runa, have resided in loosely associated villages throughout Orado since before recorded history. Explorers from Zeme and Thule came across Orado during the Middle-Era, and eventually settlers began building cities there, often coming into conflict with the native Runa. Though there were many disastrous battles and skirmishes, an accord was eventually reached.

However, during the late Global-Era, in response to attempts to control settlements by the military of larger countries, Li’Kan and Heltzem citizens of Orado along with several Runa tribes united to defend themselves to become the Republic of Orado. R.O. is a representative republic, with appointed governors from each area representing their state’s interest on a national council, headed by an appointed Chairman who also acts as a figurehead for the country. 

People & Culture: Formed from the collective of former colonies from Sekai, Zeme, and Thule, as well as some tribes of the Runa people, the population of Orado hails from generations of hardworking farmers, miners, and laborers. There is a great deal of value placed on both cultural variety and personal independence, but a general resistance to and skepticism of government and authority.  Oradian citizens value hard work and enjoying the fruits of their labor. 

Fashion: Most citizens seem to prefer their working clothes. Even as the country becomes wealthier, simple, durable clothing is seen as more sensible than ornate clothing.

Notable Locations: 

Sutherby Swamp, mysterious swamp said to hold secrets.

Orado city – Westernmost city on the coast, Capital of Orado.

Southwestern Continent: Sekai

Climate: Temperate environment.

Political Structure: During the Ancient-Era, Sekai’s political structure had been that of a Dynastic Empire, with rulers leading the country through birthright or marriage as a part of various family lines. In the late Middle-Era, Sekai began the transition into representative government. While still technically under the rule of an Emperor, National Advisors now share legal and military power. Advisors are the overseers of districts, with local state representatives serving under the Advisor of their district. Sekai’s military policy has focused on defense, versus the colonial Thule.

People & Culture: The Kane people of Sekai possess a strong sense of family honor, to which they extend to their entire culture, seeing all members of their society as fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters to be treated with honor and respect. There is a strong cultural tendency to value wealth and commerce. Sekai developed methods of rapid communication through long-range signals, utilized traveling messengers, and developed one of the earliest writing systems in the world. Sekai possesses an advanced navy and merchant fleet. 

Fashion: Ornate robes and stylish, but loose-fitting clothing remains a staple of Sekai fashion, even as some styles from Zeme and Thue are adopted during later times in history. 

Notable Locations:

Numerous coastal cities/ ports

Southeast Island/ Continent: Yerchaca

Climate: Harsh, dry and arid environment with few resources except for a huge supply of Kievacite. 

Political Structure: From the Ancient-Era until the mid Global-Era, Yerchaca was ruled under a King or Queen of the Chacian (Shay-Shin) family line. Through the Ancient-Era this was a relatively stable dynasty, but the true lineage of the ruling family became lost to history, and during the Middle-Era, Yerchaca became plagued by countless civil wars with various leaders claiming to be the true offspring of the Chacian family. 

Culture: Loyalty is a treasured value of the Year, and there is a general distrust of outsiders.  Many citizens of Yerchaca blame the instability of their country on the invasions from Thule which took place between the Late-Ancient-Era and the Early Global-Era.

Fashion: Practical clothing for a harsh environment. Most residents wear thin, layered robes and head coverings, always prepared for the harsh winds of a sandstorm, or to shield their eyes from the sun.

Notable Locations:  

The 'Central' Continent:  Zeme

Political Structure:

People & Culture: Northern & Southern Zeme ruled by separate Confederacies. Frequent disputes over territories straddling the border between north and south. 

Notable Locations: 

Yette Crater

Updated 8/4/2023