Aedeland

Republic of Aedeland Folkeveldet Æðelantë
Flag	Coat of arms
Motto: Det er Vinds vilje "That is Vind's Will"
Anthem: Úrðr stýrir um hvar Fate rules over everywhere (Stoldavic)
Locator map
Capital city	Ærilar
Largest city	Ålesund
Official language	Aldsegian
Other languages
Ethnic group
Religion	Sunna Orkanan
Demonym(s)	Aedelmen, Aedelish
Government
Government Type	Unitarian authoritarian republic
Fører	Adam Bjorksen
Lord Martial	Hjalmar Mikilsen
Legislature	Alþingi Lögrétta Folkmot
Establishment
Aldsegian Rising	7XXX
Area
Total	xxx km2
Water %	xxx
Population
Total	xxx
Density	xxx/km2
Economy
Economy type	Market capitalist, semi-Mutualist
GDP (total)	Ꞡ TBA
GDP per capita	Ꞡ TBA
Currency	Standarværdi (≡)
Currency symbol	[[File:|18px]]
Inequality index	TBA
Development index	TBA
Other information
Time zone	+0
Driving side	right
Calling code	+TBA
Internet code	.adl
Nation number	{{{nation number}}}

From Old Æðelish "Æðel" and "Lantuð" meaning "The Lord's God Land" or "Where One Stands with the Lord." Exonym: Aedeland.

History

• Main article: Timeline of Aedeland

Founding and Early History

• Aedeland was consolidated under its current constitution shortly after the defenestration of Östervallen. This event marked a significant turning point in Aedeland's history and was instrumental in the collapse of the Greater Stoldavic Empire.

Pan-Anarian War and Expansionism

• In April 7498, a pivotal event occurred with the sinking of the Aedelish flagship Sørland. This event precipitated Aedeland's involvement in the Pan-Anarian War.
• During the Pan-Anarian War, Aedeland entered a period of aggressive expansionism and embraced Pan-Aldsegianism, a political ideology or movement that emphasized the unity and expansion of Aldsegian peoples and culture.

Key Annexations and Political Maneuvers

• In 7518, as part of its expansionist policy, Aedeland annexed neighboring Western Hagen.
• In 7526, Aedeland increased its control over Tauruæs and the Bualé Republics. This expansion was carried out quietly and was significantly influenced by operatives from the Suørtarnland Company, a powerful and influential entity in Aedeland's political landscape.
• The 7536 Declaration of Supremacy marked the political annexation of Aldsegian populations in Cykeria and Achilleio, further extending Aedeland's influence and control in the region.

Late 7500s - Attempts to Access the Phasian Ocean

• Aedeland made several attempts to access the Phasian Ocean, a strategic and economically significant body of water. These attempts included:
  • A failed effort to establish a heavy air route over Tharna.
  • An expedition to the interior of Tzeraka, which ultimately failed to establish a navigable route to the Phasian Ocean.
• Recognizing the limitations of these efforts, Aedeland focused on establishing an overland rail route to access the Phasian Ocean. This led to a controversial military campaign against the Ithreni-controlled West and Central Haniyyahs.

• The Suørtarnland Company, acting discreetly to avoid domestic opposition and constitutional obstacles, organized and financed a military operation using voluntary forces of the Væringet.
• East Hiniyyah, which harbored strong anti-Ithreni sentiment, was peacefully brought under control. Dhiraar Al-Azwar, a puppet of the Company, signed the Treaty of Port Amir in 7577, ceding authority to the Company.
• The conflict with Ithren over West Haniyyah remains ongoing, highlighting the continued tension and struggles for territorial control in the region.

• In 7574, Aedeland sponsored the Straits Cartel Treaty of Ærilar. This treaty was designed to monetize control over major straits, imposing tariffs and controlling maritime traffic.
• However, the tariff was met with protests from non-signatory nations, leading to a two-year non-enforcement period to reassess the implementation and enforcement of the tariff.
• The treaty's passage and its subsequent challenges led to the assassination of its architect, Jakob Av Varung.
• Following the Anisoran government's circumvention of the treaty through a flag of convenience policy, the 7579 Protocols of Gadalhem reaffirmed the Cartel's ambitions, albeit after facing what was seen as a betrayal by Anisoran allies.

Geography of Aedeland

Aedeland is located at the northern extreme of Anaria, encompassing the western third of Stoldavia. This strategic position places it at the crossroads of various seas: to the west lies the Straits of Andlát and the Thuaid Sea, also known as Vestsjøen or the Western Sea, while to the north is the Nordsjøen or Dlreukv Sea. Its eastern borders are shared with Vittmark and the XXX, creating a diverse geopolitical neighborhood. The Zeeängten and the Narrow Sea separate the southern part of Aedeland from Hallis, and the Straits of Andlát distinguish it from Cykeria to the west.

Topography and Natural Landscape

Aedeland's topography is characterized by its remarkable diversity and heavy glaciation. The northern region is dominated by fertile steppes, offering expansive agricultural opportunities. In stark contrast, the central part of Aedeland is known for its high plateaus and rugged mountain ranges, largely undeveloped and wild. These mountains give way to deep valleys and rugged coasts along the western border, adding to the dramatic natural scenery.

One of Aedeland's most famous geographical features is its rugged coastline, intricately carved with deep fjords. These fjords, a result of glacial activity, have shaped the country's coastal landscape, creating spectacular natural harbors and breathtaking scenery. The presence of these fjords has also influenced the country's culture and history, often being featured in local folklore and mythology.

In contrast to the rugged central and western regions, the southern coast of Aedeland boasts fertile plains. Though fewer in number, these plains are known for their agricultural productivity. Fertile valleys, which crisscross the country, further enhance the agricultural potential of the region, acting as natural conduits for trade and communication between different parts of the country.

Highest Point

Mestrhorn stands as the highest point in Aedeland, a symbol of the country's diverse and imposing natural landscape. This peak, likely a part of the central mountain ranges, adds to the country's rich topographical diversity, offering a stark contrast to the fertile plains and deep fjords.

In summary, Aedeland's geography is marked by its varied landscapes, from fertile steppes and plains to rugged mountains and coastlines, all interconnected by fertile valleys and highlighted by the famous fjords. This diverse geography not only shapes the country's natural beauty but also influences its climate, ecosystems, and human activities.

Political Geography of Aedeland

Regional Governments and Local Assemblies Aedeland's political landscape is characterized by regional governments, known as Adl Lægrivöld, which consist of various local assemblies. Each of these assemblies operates under its own constitution, offering a glimpse into the diverse political fabric of the nation. While some of these local assemblies practice democracy, most adhere to the Hérauð system, a unique form of governance resembling a gerontocracy. In this system, elders play a pivotal role, often selecting themselves or their representatives for political positions. The elder member of each family chooses a representative for the Ætt, and these representatives then elect their members to the Hérathing. This process continues up the hierarchy to the higher Úbeing and ultimately to the Lögrétta, illustrating a complex and layered political structure.

Cultural Geography of Aedeland

The Buálé Culture Predominantly found in Nordaland and Valland, the Buálé culture is known for its strict, hardworking farm lifestyle and puritanical interpretation of the faith. This group is easily identifiable by their distinctive black, plain dress. They exemplify a culture deeply rooted in agricultural traditions and religious conservatism.

Hárfólk and Víkingur Cultures In Haraland and Skoldaland, the Hárfólk and Víkingur cultures are nearly indistinguishable, with a common origin story suggesting that the Hárfólk were founded by Víkingurs who retreated to the highlands to escape the authority of the Mormuärs of Storhavn. Both groups have adapted to life on challenging and less fertile soils, forging a rugged existence. Their culture is marked by a rough style of dress, favoring coarse wool, fur, and deerskin, and they are known for their crudeness, infighting, and rebellious nature.

The Alsuæ Culture Found almost exclusively within Alsaeland and southern Skoldaland, the Alsuæ represent the most metropolitan of Aedeland's subcultures. The urban population in Alsaeland, which wields significant cultural influence in Aedeland, has been heavily influenced by foreign cultures, particularly from central Anaria via Achilleio and Thultannia. In contrast, the rural Alsuæ maintain more traditional cultural elements with less pronounced foreign influence. Their elaborate folk dress, often featuring colorful embroidery, scarves, bonnets, and shawls, is a notable aspect of their identity.

The Ayren Culture Located in the southern state of Mildeland, the Ayren culture is a liberalized variant of the northern Buálé. Blessed with mild weather and fertile soil, the Ayren are known as idyllic agriculturalists with a Provençal disposition. This culture contrasts with the more austere Buálé, reflecting the influence of their more temperate and prosperous environment.

Climate

Western Coastal Areas and Inland Climate

In the western coastal areas of Aedeland, the climate is predominantly temperate. This moderate climate results largely from the influence of the Thuaid Sea (Vestsjøen) Current, which helps to regulate temperatures along the coast. This current brings milder air, preventing the extremes of temperature often found further inland or in more northern latitudes.

Moving inland, the climate of Aedeland changes considerably. Winters become cold, diverging from the temperate conditions on the coast. Summers in these regions are relatively cool, lacking the more pronounced warmth experienced in coastal areas. This variation highlights the significant climatic difference between the coastal and inland areas of Aedeland.

Northern Coast and Arctic Regions

The northern coast of Aedeland experiences a cool and rainy climate throughout the year, creating a distinct environmental zone compared to the rest of the country. Further north, in the Arctic areas of Aedeland, the climate becomes even more severe, with harsh winters characterizing these regions. The Arctic zones of Aedeland thus represent some of the most extreme climatic conditions in the country.

Capital City Climate and Southern Coast Climate

Ålesund, the capital and largest city of Aedeland, exemplifies the country's varied climate. It experiences an average low temperature of -4.9°C (23.2°F) in January and an average high of 22.1°C (71.8°F) in July. These temperatures reflect the temperate nature of the western coastal climate influenced by the Thuaid Sea Current.

Aedeland's southern coast enjoys a more favorable climate, similar to that of Amberia. This is largely due to the warm Zuidzee Current, which brings milder temperatures to the region. For example, Ærilar, the largest city in the south of Aedeland, experiences an average January low of 3.4°C (38.2°F) and an average July high of 28.9°C (84.0°F). This demonstrates the significant climatic contrast between the northern and southern regions of Aedeland.

Government and Politics

Aedeland is governed as a Unitarian authoritarian confederated republic. The central government forms part of a complex hierarchy of overlapping and competing regional governments. The structure and function of Aedeland's government reflect a deep-seated belief in the protection of individual rights and properties, as espoused by the lawgiver Guðfriður Hinn Guttlausi.

Legislature

The Althing At the heart of Aedeland's national government is the bicameral legislature known as the Althing, comprising two distinct bodies:

• Council (Lögrétta): This aristocratic and deliberative parliament is responsible for formulating and passing legislation. It consists of 101 aldermen, also known as Jarldomen (meaning chief men), who are seen as the eldest and wisest members of society. These aldermen are selected every five years by regional party leaders through staggered proportional elections within each senior regional assembly (Úbeingi) of the six Lantðabn. Seat apportionment among the Lantðabn is based on population, determined by a census conducted every seven years during the 'Release Year' (Frihetsåret).
• Assembly (Folkmødt): This democratic and auditory body is tasked with reviewing legislation and overseeing government operations. Members, known as Nefndarmen, are popularly elected in staggered elections for two-year terms. The Assembly, comprising 320 members, each represents approximately 5,000 individuals, as determined by the last census. The Folkmoot holds the power to veto laws passed by the Council, declare laws unconstitutional, and impeach officials, including aldermen, judges, the leader, or cabinet ministers.

National Leadership and Executive Cabinet

• The national leader, elected by the Upper Council, appoints an executive cabinet consisting of three secretaries: War, Foreign, and Home.
• The current elected leader of the Althing is Georg av Horda, assisted by three appointed cabinet ministers: Lord Martial Severin av Skálholt, Foreign Secretary Vilhelm av Húlarung, and Home Secretary Eiríkr av Ödlanding.
• This leadership structure emphasizes a balance of power between the elected representatives and the appointed officials, ensuring a check-and-balance system within the government.

Electoral and Political Process

• Members of the Upper Council are appointed by regional assemblies, while members of the Lower Assembly are elected through popular vote.
• The electoral process is unique in that only fathers of adult children are eligible to vote for representatives to the assembly.

Political Geography

The provincial governments in Aedeland, known as Adl Lægrivöld, are characterized by a diverse array of local assemblies, each operating under its own unique constitution. This structure reflects the varied political and administrative landscapes across the provinces, allowing for a degree of local autonomy and governance that aligns with the specific needs and traditions of each area.

Democratic and Gerontocratic System

While some of these local assemblies function as democracies, a majority operate under the Hérauð system. The Hérauð system is notable for its gerontocratic nature, where governance is predominantly in the hands of elder members of the community. This system values the experience and wisdom of the older population, entrusting them with key decision-making responsibilities.

Election and Representation Process In the Hérauð system, the election and representation process unfolds in a multi-tiered manner:

1. Family-Level Selection: The elder member of each family selects a representative to the Ætt, a foundational unit in the local governance structure.
2. Ætt to Hérathing: Members of the Ætt then elect their representatives to the Hérathing, a larger assembly that encompasses a broader segment of the community.
3. Higher Levels of Governance: These representatives, in turn, elect individuals to the higher Úbeing, continuing the chain of representation and governance. This process culminates in the selection of representatives for the Lögrétta, the uppermost level of the provincial governance structure.

This hierarchical representation system ensures that decision-making reflects the wisdom and experience of the elders, while also incorporating a broader base of community representation. It is a distinctive feature of Aedeland's governance, blending traditional gerontocratic principles with a structured democratic process.

Provinces

Provinces of Cykeria

Province	Emblem	Capital	Population	Landmarks & motes
Aeveland		Norðurljós	365,741
Aemeland		Ljósavatn	5,681,012
Nordaland		Bláfeldur	7,410,102
Alsaeland		Ærilar (Largest city)	14,848,148
Rasakand		Eldjarnstadur	7,510,200
Haraland		Vindasel	4,182,400
Skoldaland		Sólbrekka	3,050,141
Mildeland		Ålesund (National Capital)	16,708,150
Valland		Gullströnd	6,102,580
High Cykeria		Grænaborg	941,800
Great Cykeria		Bjargmundur	120,150
Polar Territories		Frostahöfn	23,012	N/A

Cykeria

Aedeland has undergone significant territorial changes, with Cykeria now standing as its primary and largest province in terms of area. Situated on the Jorveh continent north of Anaria, Cykeria represents a strategic expansion of Aedeland's territory. This expansion includes the entirety of the Arctic islands and the full extent of the Arctic ice cap, as defined by its maximum reach in 7610. Historically a colony, Cykeria's status has evolved, integrating it more fully into Aedeland's provincial framework. Despite its vast area, it remains the least populated province in Aedeland, offering a unique blend of expansive territory with low population density.

Cykeria's significance to Aedeland extends beyond its geographical expanse. The province is blessed with exceptionally large mineral deposits, which have become a major boon to both the Aedelish economy and the national budget. The wealth of natural resources found here includes lead, cobalt, iron, platinum, and gold. These deposits are not only abundant but are also among the highest quality and most accessible to Anarian industry. The proximity of these resources to major industrial centers in Anaria makes extraction particularly lucrative, positioning Cykeria as a key player in Aedeland's economic landscape.

As Aedeland taps into Cykeria's rich mineral resources, there is an emerging focus on balancing economic growth with sustainable mining practices. The challenge lies in harnessing these resources in a way that minimizes environmental impact, particularly in such a sensitive and pristine Arctic region.

Politics

Following the restoration of Aldgesian-style governance in 7651, Aedeland has transitioned away from the traditional constitutional confederated republic into a more openly and uncompromising unitarianist authoritarian system. While broadly defined as unitarian, Aedeland's employment of the tenets of unitarianism are unique and somewhat contradict its traditional preference for small government. As such, a strong emphasis on regional governments is maintained, but within a competing and overlapping nested hierarchy of regional governments that are carefully controlled by the unitarian Council. This Council arbitrates between the regional governments and controls overarching domestic and foreign affairs. The national leadership comprises a leader elected by the Upper Council (Lögrétta), who appoints an executive cabinet consisting of three secretaries responsible for War, Foreign Affairs, and Home Affairs.

Legislative Bodies

The legislative branch, known as the Althing (Aedelish: Aluðingi), is bicameral and comprises two distinct bodies:

The Council (Lögrétta): An aristocratic, deliberative parliament, the Council is responsible for formulating and passing legislation. Its members, known as aldermen (Jarldomen, meaning "chief man"), are tasked with representing the eldest and wisest members of society. The Council has 100 aldermen, selected every five years through staggered proportional elections within each senior regional assembly of the six Lantðabn. Seats are allocated based on population, determined by a census conducted every seven years during the 'Release Year' (Frihetsåret).

The Assembly (Folkmødt): This democratic body reviews legislation and monitors government operations. Its members, known as Nefndarmen, are elected in staggered annual elections for two-year terms. Each member represents approximately five thousand individuals, as per the latest census. The Folkmoot possesses the power to veto Council-passed legislation, declare laws unconstitutional, and impeach officials, including aldermen, judges, the leader, or cabinet ministers.

Voting Rights and Electoral System

Despite other nations adopting progressive voting reforms and universal suffrage, Aedeland has maintained its century-old suffrage system. There is a strong sense of nostalgia for the grandeur of the Aldgesian Empire. After enduring the repression of the Elding og Þruma regime and isolated from many social advancements, there is little appetite for political innovation in Aedeland. As in the Aldgesian era, only fathers of adult children are entitled to vote for Assembly representatives. Female suffrage has not progressed, and the reactionary national zeitgeist has stifled efforts toward achieving it.

Current Leadership

The current elected leader (Fører) of the Althing is Adam Bjorksen. A key figure in the strong resurrection movement within the Althing, he advocates for technical modernization while upholding traditional Aldgesian morality and customs. His stance creates tension with progressive neighbors like Vittmark, though Anarian dependence on Aedelish mineral resources tempers criticism of his government.

Philosophy of Governance

Aedeland's governance philosophy is anchored in the protection of property and individual rights, as interpreted through traditional Aldgesian morality and customs. This philosophy shapes the entirety of Aedeland's governance, ensuring the protection and fair treatment of its citizens. Legally, a citizen is defined as an adult male, with women and children considered dependents. Unattached women and orphaned children fall under state guardianship. The legacy of the Elding og Þruma regime remains evident, with servicemen and veterans receiving benefits like judicial leniency and bureaucratic priority.

Foreign Policy

Following the restoration of democracy, Aedeland has gradually emerged from the absolute isolation characteristic of the Elding og Þruma era. However, the nation still retains a cautious approach to international relations, often described as pseudo-isolationist and protectionist. This cautious stance manifests in strict travel regulations for foreigners, who require provincial permission to traverse Aedeland, with notable exceptions for investors. Exceptions are made in more open areas like the city of Ærilar and the metro area of Ålesund, but the rest of Aedeland remains relatively closed off.

Functioning of the Foreign Office

The Foreign Office, led by the Foreign Secretary, plays a crucial role in shaping Aedeland's foreign policy. This office advises the Fører on diplomatic matters, including the appointment of Aedeland's representatives abroad and the accreditation of foreign diplomats in Aedeland. Traditional roles of diplomacy and consular services are carried out by the diplomatic and consular departments.

Humanitarian and Security Operations

The Free Corps, locally known as FK Aedeland, is a humanitarian relief organization that also runs exchange programs, showcasing a softer side of Aedeland's foreign policy. On the security front, the Confederation Skyggejegere, translating to "Shadow Hunters," focuses on preventing foreign espionage and influence within Aedeland. This body also engages in limited intelligence gathering and investigates international crimes involving Aedelmen.

Reconnecting with Former Colonies

A key aspect of Aedeland's foreign policy is re-establishing connections with former colonial territories, particularly Bule and Achilleion. Efforts to reignite cooperation and trade have seen mixed results. Relations with Achilleion have been more successful, buoyed by warm memories of historical ties and ongoing cross-cultural connections. Bule, in contrast, has drifted into the Wolgos sphere of influence, limiting Aedeland's engagement. Despite this, both nations maintain diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges

Military

The military philosophy of Aedeland is encapsulated in the words of Nuðruðulan av Gangr, the First Lord Martial of the Pan-Anarian War: "In war, men might fight for Aedeland, but they die for their regiment." This sentiment underscores the deep bond and loyalty within the military units. The Aedelish military, known as the Styrkene, consists of four main branches: the Huæren (Army), Sjøstyrkene (Navy), Valkyrja (Air Force), and Styuðja (Support Services).

Historical Context and Evolution

Traditionally, Aedeland's constitution forbade the maintenance of a standing army. However, the Elding og Þruma regime marked a significant shift, leading to the establishment of a professional standing army. Currently, the Styrkene maintains a professional cadre of seventy thousand personnel, with the capacity to mobilize an additional two million from the active regimental militia as needed.

There is a mandatory service requirement for all males. Upon reaching 18 years of age, they must serve a minimum of two years in a local regimental militia. Alternatively, they can opt for four years of non-combat service in the Styuðja or Free Corps. This system ensures a continuous supply of trained personnel who can be called upon in times of national need.

Naval Capabilities - The Sjøstyrkene

Aedeland's navy, inherited a sizable fleet from the Elding og Þruma regime. Under the current administration, Aedeland has continued to maintain a formidable navy, capable of defending its territory and projecting power in the North Anarian region. It is one of the few navies in Gotha with blue water capabilities, allowing for operations in open oceans. However, these capabilities are somewhat limited compared to the bulk of its naval forces, which are designed for regional dominance.

Modern Military Outlook

In modern times, Aedeland's military focuses on maintaining a balance between traditional defense capabilities and the needs of a professional, modern force. The Styrkene is structured to ensure national security, protect territorial integrity, and contribute to international peacekeeping efforts as necessary. The emphasis on regimental loyalty and the blend of professional and militia forces reflect Aedeland's unique approach to military organization, deeply rooted in its historical and cultural ethos.

Community

The Fundamental Unit: The Ætt

In Aedeland, the kin group known as the Ætt, comprising approximately three thousand members, is the fundamental unit of society. Each Ætt functions as a polis, led by a council of Ældermenn, known as an Ættuðingi. This council represents the eldest member of each constituent Húbas. There are about ten thousand politically recognized Ætt in Aedeland, which are organized into one hundred Héra.

Land and Expansion

The ancestral land, known as Ættsrett, is integral to Aedelish society. Originating from territories of Aldsegian tribes, these lands are held in allodium and traditionally cannot be partitioned. The growth of an Ætt often necessitates expansion, traditionally achieved through displacement of neighboring Ætt or transferring members to smaller ones. Post the First Stoldavic Empire's collapse, this expansionist approach led to conflicts among Ætt until the colony period in the Interregnum. Friduric's unification in 7162 curbed these conflicts, driving Aedelmenn to seek new territories abroad. In contemporary times, with foreign land acquisition unfeasible, Ætt focus on developing existing lands. This drive can lead to local urbanization, particularly if an Ætt hasn't stabilized in size.

Ancestral Halls and Great Halls

Example of a federated venture, A sky result located in the nations mountainous interior

Each Ættsrett features an ancestral hall, serving as the political, economic, and social hub of the community. Here, the Ættuðingi meets, and it often houses the elders of the Ætt. While most halls are were traditionally constructed in the vernacular timber-framed hall house style or fortified castles and lavish palaces for powerful Ætt. In modern times, these halls have morphed into versatile community centers located in urban settings, equipped with facilities like conference rooms, recreational areas, and cultural spaces. They serve as a testament to the Ætt's adaptability, merging their rich heritage with contemporary societal demands.

Many Ættsrett governance foundations retain an agrarian ideal and maintaining large fields known as free holds if possible, farmed in strips by individual families. In addition to these fields, there are common meadows, pasture lands, woodlands for timber, and communal greens for social events. Private fenced land, such as paddocks, orchards, and gardens called closes, and hunting parks are also common. Large or less well off Ættsrett may maintain a system of allotments or lease land for other Ættsrett for their members to enjoy, in other cases federations of Ættsrett may hold lands in common which they may use to build more ambitious projects such as sky and coastal resorts for their members and for profit.

Communal Living and Support Systems

Life within the Ætt is highly communal, with members expected to care for each other, creating a lifelong support system that fosters stable families. While it's common for unmarried men to seek opportunities far from their traditional lands or settlements, most individuals spend their entire lives on the Ættsrett. Those who do leave for distant lands and cities are expected to tithe 5% of their earnings to the Ætt.

Modern Ættsrett are becoming increasingly dynamic, addressing contemporary societal needs while upholding traditional values. Educational programs, healthcare initiatives, and support systems for the elderly and youth are integrated into the community framework. This approach ensures that while the Ætt members embrace modernity, they remain deeply connected to their roots and heritage.