Aedeland

Aedelish Technate Ældsteknoríki
Flag	Coat of arms
Motto: Aedeland Above All
Anthem: Imperial Anthem
Locator map
Capital city	Ålesund
Largest city	Ærilar
Official language	Aldsegian
Other languages	Regional dialects
Ethnic group	Aldsay
Religion	Salvede Trú
Demonym(s)	Aedelish - Aedelman
Government
Government Type	Haverist
Fører	Gudfrodr av Rygir
Lord Martial	Tóki av Tyrfing
Legislature	Althing
Establishment
Founding	7650
Area
Total	6,902,452.64 km2
Water %	{{{water percentage}}}
Population
Total	66,943,437
Density	9.70/km2
Economy
Economy type	Command
GDP (total)	Ꞡ 1,549,246,459,331.42
GDP per capita	Ꞡ 23,142.62
Currency	Standard ()
Inequality index	{{{inequality index}}}
Development index	{{{development index}}}
Other information
Time zone	{{{time zone}}}
Driving side	{{{driving side}}}
Calling code	{{{calling code}}}
Internet code	{{{internet code}}}
Nation number	{{{nation number}}}

Aedeland ([eɪdəland]), officially the Aedelish Technate (Aedelish: Ældsteknoríki, /aeld-stehk-noh-ree-kee/), is a nation located in Western Stoldavia. Aedeland's capital is Ålesund and its largest metropolis is Ærilar. The country's other major cities are Ayrendæl, Stórhavn, Vintersæte, Ascolat, and Störmheim.

Etymology

Aedeland is a transcription of Æðeland meaning "Land of the Aedels" in Aedelish. The name is derived from the compound of the Aedelish words æðel and land. Both words are derived from Old Aedelish. Aedel is the endonym of the Southern Aldsay of Stoldavia derived from the ancient Aldsegian tribe from whom the Aedelmen claim descent. Æðel is derived from proto-Anario Jorvic at-al which combines at(i) "over, beyond, super" and al "to nourish."

History

See also: Aedelish Timeline

Aedeland has a history marked by dramatic political and social shifts. The modern nation emerged under the republican Constitution of 7305 after the unification of the Aldsay peoples following the defenestration of Östervallen. Aedeland began expanding its territory, notably annexing Western Hagen in 7518 and asserting dominance over regions like Cykeria and Achilleion by 7536.

The Pan-Anarian War and the sinking of the flagship Sørland in 7349 played a pivotal role in solidifying a pan-Aldsegian identity. As the Straits Cartel collapsed in the mid-7500s, Aedeland realigned its foreign policy, allying with Helreich and Anat Tahan while lifting a ban on Häverism. In 7579, widespread unrest led to the Bloodless Revolution, during which the Häverist party took power, suspended the Aedelish constitution, and formed the Aedelish Häverist Technate, pushing forward a radical reform program known as the Framleiðingarátak (/frahm-lay-ding-ar-ow-tahk/).

Despite facing economic decline, resource depletion, and political instability in the later 76th century, Aedeland’s fortunes were revitalized by the development of atomic energy, ushering in a new era of growth and technological advancement. Today, Aedeland remains a major power in Anaria, shaped by its unique history of war, ideology, and innovation.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Aedeland

Aedeland is located in northern Anaria, occupying the western third of Stoldavia, known as Vesturland. It sits at a strategic maritime crossroads: the Straits of Andlát and the Thuaid Sea (Vestsjøen or Western Sea) lie to the west, the Nordsjøen (Dlreukv Sea) to the north, and the Zeeängten and Narrow Sea separate its southern region from Hallis. To the east, it borders Vittmark, while the Straits of Andlát separate it from Cykeria to the west.

Topography

Marked by dramatic variation, with extensive glaciation, Aedeland possesses northern steppe, high plateaus, rugged mountains, deep valleys, and a distinctive coastline. Aedeland is famous for its fjords, some of the most visually striking coastal landscapes in the world. The highest point in Aedeland is Mestrhorn, which rises to 4,884 meters (16,023 feet) and is renowned for its steep, glaciated slopes, making it one of the world's most challenging climbs.

The Lesser Stoldavian Range and the Neuarfellkjede

The Lesser Stoldavian Range (Neuarfellkjede) runs through the heart of Aedeland, acting as a natural divider between the northern and southern watersheds. The highest peak, Mestrhorn, is located at the center of this massif, surrounded by notable summits such as Skjenfjell (4,810 meters / 15,782 feet), Høygaffjel (4,545 meters / 14,911 feet), and Jomfruer (4,158 meters / 13,642 feet). The southern slopes of the range are rich in Aedelish cedar, prized for its high quality. To the north, the Austhúls ridge descends into the Villand Piedmont, characterized by unique karst topography, including over 3,100 towering quartzite sandstone pillars reaching heights of up to 800 meters (2,625 feet). This area, known as the White Marches, is also distinguished by its limestone cliffs and limited surface water. The Skjold Peninsula, formed by the rugged Western Auðigrháls Ridge, marks the western terminus of the Lesser Stoldavian Range. The peninsula’s coast is deeply indented by fjords, including the vast Bay of Knivene.

Rivers and Lakes

Aedeland’s longest river, the Rikrinná, flows through one of the deepest gorges in the world, with sections plunging to depths of 2,407 meters (7,900 feet). The river originates from the Vievattn hot spring, producing an enormous daily flow of 4.5 million cubic meters (1.2 billion gallons). It meanders southeast to Åstillevatn, the country’s largest lake, which divides the river into its upper and lower sections. The Rikrinná is navigable up to the Seven Sisters waterfalls, a series of dramatic cascades, including Flottefoss, Hjortfoss, Skóstafoss, Svandalsfoss, Fossen Blå, Høyfoss, and Dødstalismanenefoss. These waterfalls further enhance the natural beauty of the landscape. The river drains into the Ålesund Bay, the site of Aedeland’s capital, which is famous for its striking tidal waterfalls.

The Dyner and the Grunnrland Region

The Dyner, unique loess hills, define the Grunnrland region in northern Aedeland. These fertile dunes, shaped by glaciers, consist of humps and hollows with steep northeast-facing slopes. The region’s largest river, the Níðhö River, is vital for irrigation, electricity production, and flood control and is navigable in parts.

The Aryas Region

Located south of the Skjold Peninsula, the Aryas region is known for its coastal beauty along the Vestsjøen (Thuaid Sea). The region features fertile piedmonts called the Dales, which meet the towering western face of the Auðigrháls mountain range. The Forheksede, Aedeland’s second-longest river, flows through the Dales and cuts through the treacherous Forheksede River Gorge before emptying into the Gulf of Aryas.

The Mildeland Region

The Mildeland region lies at the southernmost base of the Lesser Stoldavian Range and is known for its relatively flat, fertile landscape. This area includes the northern highlands called the Wolds and the heathland peninsula known as the Sandlings. The region’s mild climate is more typical of central Anaria than the harsher conditions of northern Stoldavia.

Aedeland's varied geography, with its towering mountains, deep fjords, vast rivers, and fertile plains, has played a crucial role in shaping its culture, economy, and strategic importance.

Climate

Aedeland experiences a variety of climates influenced by its diverse geography and proximity to several seas, including the Vestsjøen (Western Sea), Nordsjøen (Dlreukv Sea), and Zeeängten, along with its rugged topography.

The northern region, including Aedeland’s capital, Ålesund, has a cool, short summer and long, cold, cloudy winters. Temperatures in this area typically range from 34°F to 70°F (1°C to 21°C), with winter lows averaging 34°F (1°C) and summer highs reaching 72°F (22°C). Cloud cover is common throughout the year, with December being the cloudiest month. Rainfall is highest in November, averaging 2.4 inches (60 mm), while July is the driest month. The climate is cool and damp, with frequent rainfall and limited sunshine. The Arctic regions of northern Aedeland endure harsh, extended winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, representing the most extreme climatic conditions in the country, marked by prolonged snow and ice.

The mountainous interior of Aedeland experiences harsh winters and mild summers. Snowfall in the mountain passes is extreme, with an average annual snowfall of 244 inches (6.19 m) and approximately 47 snowfall days each year. These conditions contribute to the region’s harsh, rugged climate, with colder temperatures and a longer winter season compared to other areas of the country.

To the south of the Auðigrháls mountain range, the climate is warmer, as seen in Ærilar, Aedeland’s largest city. This region experiences hot, dry summers and long, cool, wet winters. Temperatures generally range from 47°F to 88°F (8°C to 31°C), with rare extremes dipping below 40°F (4°C) or exceeding 96°F (36°C). From April to November, skies are mostly clear or partly cloudy, providing pleasant weather. Winters are wetter, but the milder temperatures make the region more temperate compared to the cooler north.

The climate along the western peninsula is temperate, influenced by the Thuaid Sea Current. This current moderates coastal temperatures, making them milder than those inland. Coastal areas experience relatively mild winters and cooler summers compared to the interior, which sees more variation in temperature. Inland, winters are colder and summers are cooler, with more pronounced temperature differences between the seasons.

Aedeland’s climate varies significantly across the country, with northern areas being cooler and more overcast, and southern and western regions enjoying milder, more temperate conditions. The combination of geographic features and proximity to seas creates a range of environmental conditions, shaping life and activities across the nation.

Political Geography

Aedeland's provincial governments, formerly called lægrivöld, were replaced by a system of fifty-seven districts, each 100 km by 100 km. Each district is designated by a number that corresponds to its location within the Aedelish Survey Grid Reference (SGR), a standardized grid system subdivided into various smaller units (10 km, 1 km, 500 m, 100 m, 10 m, and 1 m). District Offices coordinate the activities of the various Functional Sequences and social units within their boundaries.

While the regional governments are now administratively replaced, Aedeland's four primary lægrivöldfyrir in Stoldavia—Nordland, Skojdland, Háraland, and Mildeland—along with the two external lægrivöldannarr, Åland and Cykeria, retain cultural and social significance.

	Nordaland Nordaland, Aedeland's northernmost lægrivöldfyrir, stretches from the Stilvatn in the east to the Skjold peninsula in the west. Historically dominated by sheep and wool production, Nordland was Aedeland's traditional source of wealth. Its ancient Aetts, once influenced by Östervallen, have played a key role in Aedeland's history. The region also produces most of Aedeland's cereal grains, particularly from the loess hills. The cooperative farming methods used before mechanization gave rise to the Bulé subculture. As the first to industrialize, Nordaland has the largest economy in Aedeland, with heavy industry concentrated around the Stilvatn basin and the Rikranna river valley.
	Skjoldaland The western Skjolda peninsula has long been shaped by the sea-going wealth of Storhavn, whose authority was strengthened by the region's rugged coasts and isolation. Life in Skjolda has historically been difficult, with its people living just above subsistence, leading to a fiercely independent raiding Víkingur culture. Recent rail and road projects have integrated Skjolda more closely with the rest of Aedeland. Today, its fishing and highland wool industries are on par with Nordaland’s.
	Háraland Aedeland's central lægrivöldfyrir, Háraland, is its least populous region. Its people, the Hárfólk, are closely related to the Víkingur of Skjoldland. Historically sparsely populated, Háraland has rapidly urbanized in the past century, with Vintersæte as its largest city. Its main industries are chemicals and forest products.
	Mildeland Mildeland is Aedeland’s most diverse lægrivöldfyrir, known for its cultural and economic significance. It is home to Ærilar, Aedeland's largest city and cultural hub. The southwestern Aryas coast is the center of Aedeland's manufacturing industry, while the Mildeland peninsula serves as the country's breadbasket, producing a variety of crops. The region also boasts Aedeland's most moderated climate, with fertile valleys, coastlines, and an economy driven by agriculture, tech, and entertainment, making it a major economic powerhouse in Aedeland.
	Åland Åland comprises the Aereyjar Isles, a chain of islands between Cykeria and Thultannia, also known as the Chain of Vind. Major inhabited islands include Åland, Aetheros, Eressëa, Vestras, Maleficarion, Anteros, and Elysion. The Aereyjar were originally settled by a western Aldsegian people, who separated from the eastern branch that became the Aedelish before migrating to Stoldavia. Over time, these native populations blended with Emther and Aedelish Víkingur migrants, forming the distinctive Ålander culture. The Ålanders are known for their seafaring lifestyle, with fishing as their primary industry and a growing reliance on military facilities in the region.
	Cykeria Cykeria, or Sikaland in Aedelish, lies at the southern more habitable tip of the Jorvic continent, north of Anaria. Once a colony, Cykeria was fully integrated into Aedeland under the Technate. With over 95% of its population residing in Grænaborg, Cykeria is characterized by vast territory and low population density. Its significance to Aedeland goes beyond its size, as the name "Cykeria" is derived from a corruption of the Aedelish term síkaland, meaning "our homeland." The native Cykerians are regarded as the ancestors of all Aldsegians. Greater Cykeria, however, is dominated by Nordalanders who immigrated to escape persecution by the Greater Stoldavic Empire.
	Great Cykeria Great Cykeria, Stórr-Sikaland in Aedelish, is a strategic expansion of Aedeland's territory, encompassing the Arctic islands and the full extent of the Arctic ice cap, as defined by its maximum reach in 7610. Despite its vast size, it remains Aedeland's least populated province. Cykeria is rich in valuable mineral deposits, including lead, cobalt, iron, platinum, and gold, which have become a significant source of wealth for both the national economy and budget. These high-quality and easily accessible resources, close to industrial centers in Anaria, make extraction particularly profitable, cementing Cykeria's role as a key economic asset for Aedeland.

Politics

Aedeland operates under a technocratic government with absolute power vested in the Fører (/føhr-er/), who holds supreme executive authority and ultimate responsibility. The Fører is assisted by an executive staff, including heads of various functional and special sequences, each serving at the Fører's discretion and assuming full responsibility for their areas.

The Fører is elected by the Control Secretariat, a body of senior administrators based on merit. This group functions like a legislature, consisting of the Fører's six executives, 57 district, and directors of functional sequences. The Leader serves until retirement or death, with no fixed term limit.

Aedeland’s government is organized around functional sequences—large, vertically integrated units covering sectors like transportation, communication, agriculture, and industry, along with service sectors like education and public health. These sequences are interdependent, and four special functional sequences ensure coordination across sectors.

The Research Office drives innovation and research, while the Home Office manages social policy, human resources, and justice. The Foreign Office handles diplomacy, and the War Office oversees national defense. Positions are filled by appointments based on expertise, with vacancies filled through nominations and Fører's approval.

The current Leader, Gudfrodr av Rygir, known for his youth and qualifications, and his executive staff are popularly called "Undrbörnin" for their exceptional leadership and achievements.

Law and Criminal Justice

Aedelish law was historically based on three key documents: the First Laws, the rights of nobles under the First Stoldavian Empire, and the Aedelish Constitution, which established the Nævninger (ecclesiastical high court) and Lægridómi (lower courts). Under the Technate, the legal system was reformed into a streamlined system run by the trúváttr, impartial legal professionals with eidetic memory, who serve as judges, lawyers, and jurors.

Aedelish legal procedures require victims or interested parties to initiate claims, fostering a litigious culture where the phrase hǫfða mik ("sue me") has become a sincere apology. While citizens once enjoyed broad legal protections, reforms removed most obstacles to justice. The State Security Service can arrest individuals for violations or "asocial" behaviors, sending those unredeemed by kin to Styðja-kulī camps for shelter and work. Critics view these camps as unconstitutional prisons, replacing traditional punishments. Supporters argue the reforms have reduced crime and homelessness, contributing to safer, cleaner cities.

Military

Main article: Styrkene

The Aedelish military, the Styrkene, is led by Lord Martial Tóki av Tyrfing and comprises four branches: Ríkes Hæren (Army), Ríkes Sjøstyrkene (Navy), Valkyrja (Air Force), and Styðja (Support). By law, Aedeland cannot maintain a standing army. In peacetime, Styrkene consists of a professional cadre of fewer than 3,000 personnel, primarily in technical roles within the Valkyrja and Sjøstyrkene.

The military of Aedeland, known as the Styrkene, has historically been organized under principles largely congruent with the meritocratic principles of technocracy and, as a result, has been largely untouched by Häverist reforms. In many ways, the Strykene has achieved far greater independence under the new system of government than it ever had under the republican government. It has five branches pre-existed the revolution and largely retain their Republican-era culture, organization, and leadership. A fifth branch, the State Security Service (Ríkisöryggi), created following the assassination of Foreign Secretary Jakob av Varung, was elevated to as a major branch and given expanded authority as part the extensive reforms establishing the Technate to create a single, national, disciplined law enforcement organization with national jurisdiction. Unlike other service members of the Strykene, individual members of the State Security Service are subject to transfer from any part of the country to any other part on short notice. While adminstratively under the discipline of the War Office, it receives its instructions and authorization for specific action from the Home and District Offices.

All males must complete at least two years of national service at age 18, either in a local regimental militia or four years in a non-combat role in Support, the Free Corps, or State Security Service. While the militias are not officially considered a standing army, they effectively function as one. About 3% of the population is in national service at any time, with 20% of Aedelish men eligible for emergency recall. Volunteers can join as early as 15, which benefits their service records. Only volunteers from the Hæren or Væringet may advance to the Valkyrja or Sjøstyrkene. Conscientious objectors can refuse service, but doing so limits political and social rights. Women are barred from national service except in non-deployable medical and secretarial roles.

Major military centers include the high commands and their attached war colleges located at Odense and Ærilar, and the combatant commands at Knivine, Ascolat, Avfall, Kavernene, and Storhavn.

Foreign Affairs

The Foreign Office, led by Foreign Secretary Aksel av Vafthrúdnir, advises the Fører on foreign policy, including appointing diplomatic representatives and handling foreign envoys. Its diplomatic and consular departments perform traditional foreign ministry functions.

In addition to traditional responsibilities of a foreign ministry, the Foreign Office is also tasked with recruiting top foreign talent for the Technate primarily through the Free Corps (FK Aedeland), Aedeland's humanitarian relief and exchange program. The Skyggejæger ("Shadow Hunters") prevents foreign espionage and influence, gathers intelligence, and investigates international crimes involving Aedelish citizens.

Visitors must obtain a detailed linen-reinforced entry visa from an Aedelish consulate for a fee. Non-citizen residents must carry a similar document. Although no customs checkpoints exist at ports of entry, illegal entry carries severe penalties.

Aedeland is widely criticized as authoritarian and anti-democratic, considered by some to be a pariah state. Its banking practices are accused of enabling tax evasion, terrorism, and organized crime, while its support of slavery and Styðja-kulī camps faces global condemnation. Aedeland is not a signatory to any international treaties or alliances.

National Symbols

Aedeland's national symbols are deeply tied to its history, ideology, and identity. Red, black, and white have been the national colors since the country’s independence from the Stoldavic Empire. The original republican flag, featuring a black cross bordered in white on a red field, was replaced in 7580 by a more modern design: a black lightning flash on a white disk, edged in black, set against a dark red field. The lightning flash symbolizes national progress and industry, while the red field represents the nation’s social ideals.

The Fører, the supreme leader, is revered as a personification of Aedeland, with a cult of personality that portrays him as an infallible genius with near-divine qualities. In contrast, the Maiden of the Mountain, or Fjǫllfreyjaelīn, represents the female embodiment of the nation. The role is traditionally filled by the winner of an annual beauty pageant, who serves as a symbol of Aedeland during national celebrations. Another powerful national symbol is the Western Stoldavic great bear, often featured in propaganda and political cartoons, symbolizing strength and resilience.

The national anthem, The March of Progress, alongside the Aedelander March, are performed at civil and military events. These symbols and traditions are central to Aedeland’s national identity and its portrayal of power, unity, and cultural values.

Economy

Aedeland operates under a scientifically planned economy based on the principles of Häverism, introduced by Peter Häver in 7457. Häverism argues that production capacity is determined by the public's consumption ability, that labor no longer dictates value, and that energy loss in production is the primary cost. The system uses energy accounting, where the energy required for the population's needs is subtracted from available resources, and the remainder is used for production. The Distribution Apparatus manages this balance, tracking consumption across various demographics and industries.

Aedelish Häverism rejects market reforms like the Theissian Reformations, which Aedelish theorists argue reintroduced the imbalances Häverism sought to eliminate, such as income inequality and resource misallocation. Aedeland’s economy uses functional sequences, which are reorganized by the Control Secretariat to meet demand, focusing on long-term sustainability rather than short-term profit.

Aedeland’s economic policy, influenced by Ødger av Estriðír’s work Absurdities of Excess, addresses the post-scarcity challenge by reinvesting excess production for the benefit of all. The Technate maintains private property, but nationalizes key resources, taxes unproductive assets, and prohibits usury. The primary goal is economic autoarchy, eliminating unemployment and providing housing for all.

Aedeland’s economic system, which influenced Orderism, emphasizes the use of energy accounting and efficient systems to meet society’s needs. Orderism combines collectivism and technology to maximize living standards and solve inefficiencies, focusing on the advancement of knowledge, technology, and humane societal values. This philosophy evolved from Häverism into a more egalitarian structure in the 7590s, transitioning from a stratified system to a society focused on order, structure, and harmony.

Banking

The state-owned Riksbank Æðelandr, founded in 7654 and headed by the Home Secretary, manages monetary policy. Unlike traditional systems that rely on debt, the Riksbank issues interest-free loans to productive industries and uses informal guidance to regulate credit.

Currency

Since 7305, Aedeland's currency has been the Standarværdi (Standard), symbolized by $. Originally pegged to 400 ounces of gold until 7579, the Standard is now a fiat currency with a floating exchange rate. The Riksbank issues banknotes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Standard. The Standard divides into 20 Sterling, with denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 Sterling. Each Sterling further divides into 12 pence, making 240 pence to a Standard. Mixed sums are written as "2$5/6" and spoken as "two standard five and six" or "two standard five and sixpence." Smaller sums, such as "1/1" or "2/6," are spoken as "one and a penny" or "two and sixpence."

Taxation

The Aedelish have historically resisted taxation. For much of Aedeland's history, there was no formal tax system, and each aett contributed manpower for the "common burdens," a tradition that continues in modern national service. During the late First Republic, the government relied on import duties and taxes on colonial subjects. Under the Technate, a progressive tax was introduced but was later replaced with taxes on imports and unproductive assets, such as precious metals, collectibles, speculative real estate, luxury goods, and unused land.

Citizen's Dividend

Aedeland has many state-owned and state-licensed enterprises in sectors like communication, transportation, energy, and natural resources. Revenue from these monopolies is redistributed as the fólk-fé, or citizen's dividend, which provides all citizens with a basic income and acts as social insurance. Only male citizens who complete national service are eligible for the base share. Married couples with at least three children receive a higher dividend, one share per household member, which becomes permanent if the husband works steadily until age 45. The dividend amount varies based on market conditions and has no fixed yield.

Healthcare

Aedeland offers a high quality of life, with one of the best private medical systems in the world. It has 51 physicians and 35.5 beds per 10,000 people, and the average life expectancy is 87 years. Aedeland's fertility rate is 4.34%, well above the replacement level of 1.9 children per woman, which is rare in Anaria.

The healthcare system focuses on the fact that a small percentage of the population accounts for a large portion of healthcare demand. One percent of the population makes up a quarter of total demand, while five percent accounts for over half. Those over 55 represent more than half of total demand. As a result, Aedeland limits access to care for the chronically ill, the elderly, and those requiring end-of-life care, focusing instead on quality and preventative treatment. Aedeland heavily invests in prenatal and neonatal care, which contributes to its high life expectancy. Aedelish birthing centers provide intensive inpatient care from early pregnancy detection through to weaning.

Industry and Manufacturing

Aedeland is a leader in producing automobiles, aircraft, machinery, arms, electrical equipment, and chemicals. Major companies include Harbard (heavy trucks and large automobiles), Fólkstigi (consumer vehicles), Áreið (luxury cars), Norðranarjosteʀl Andalvæpni (aircraft), Val-tivar (munitions), Sigra Saðr (small arms), Œrinn (industrial machinery), Snar-liga (electrical equipment), Nýsa (chemicals), and Nýráðr (advanced technology).

Aedelish products are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, with an emphasis on long lifespan and over-engineered designs for easy service.

Agriculture and Fishery

Aedeland's agriculture is highly mechanized and efficient, producing 90% of its food with just 5% of the workforce. Livestock accounts for two-thirds of production, while arable crops make up the rest. Key agricultural products include milk and cream (west), fruits and vegetables (south), and wheat (north).

Fishing is a long-standing tradition, with small coastal boats, offshore vessels, and deep-sea fishing contributing to production. Aedeland is one of the few nations still engaged in commercial whaling, using whale oil in its aerospace industry.

Energy and Transportation

Aedeland's energy is mainly generated by nuclear power, with the state-run Mjallinar Company supplying 88% through very-high-temperature pebble bed reactors. Smaller modular reactors power remote areas and vessels. Hydropower and geothermal contribute the rest.

Aedeland is a pioneer in nuclear propulsion, having developed nuclear-powered ships, trains, and aircraft, including the supersonic "Atgeir."

Eldiviðinn is Aedeland's leading producer of syngas, a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels made from peat.

Culture

Aedeland is a highly homogeneous society with a strong sense of shared values, largely due to strict immigration policies and deportation schemes from the New Imperial Republic. The population is 91.6% Aedelish, and ethnic Aedelish Aldsegians are divided into three main cultural groups:

1. Hárfólk and Víkingur: Found in central and western Aedeland, these groups share common roots with the "old Aldsay" of Cykeria. They are known for their rugged, self-reliant lifestyles and a rebellious spirit. Their traditional clothing is typically made from coarse wool, fur, and deerskin.
2. Bulé: Located in northern Aedeland, the Bulé people have ancient northern Dölmer influences. They are known for their strict agricultural lifestyle, religious conservatism, and plain black clothing. The Bulé value discipline, piety, and education.
3. Alsæ and Ayren: The Alsæ, from southern Aedeland, are the most urbanized group and influenced by central Anarian cultures. Rural Alsæ follow traditional customs, wearing colorful embroidered clothing. The Ayren, also from the south, are a more liberal version of the Bulé, known for their agricultural prosperity and relaxed lifestyle.

Aedeland has a significant population of Stolvic Dölmer immigrants, particularly in Nordaland, where they work in advanced industries and the civil service. While they have not fully assimilated, tensions between Dölmer and Aldsay populations often result in anti-immigrant sentiment. Other minorities, such as Achilleion Athves, Bulé Awawatu, and Tauri Meyistry, remain largely in Ærilar, remnants of Aedeland's former empire. These immigrant cultures are generally well integrated, with many identifying as Aedelish.

Aedeland’s laws limit citizenship to ethnic Aedelish status, and all official matters must be conducted in Aedelish. Non-Aldsay residents are referred to as "Vesturmen" (Westerners), a neutral demonym.

Religion

The Forward Initiative established the Cult of Reason and banned all other religion organizations. The Director of Research is the titular head of the state cult. Although heavily influenced by Stellist-Orkanan thought, the Cult of Reason does not subscribe to many of its extraordinary beliefs. Instead the cult professes purely scientific principles. It teaches a creation story of infinite origins and an evolutionary development of living creatures. However, the cult is not without dogmatic positions. It advocates for the constant improvement of humanity through scientific learning and social programing as well as ecological sustainability. Philisophically it is rooted in materialism and integrates a number of scientific disciplines, such as psychology and ecological conservation, in its practice.

Language

Modern Aedelish is the dominant language in Aedeland, evolving from Old Aedelish, a highly precise and consistent language still used in academia and official state records. While Modern Aedelish retains many features of its predecessor, it has simplified grammar but still maintains complex word forms and detailed syntax. The language is known for its extensive vocabulary and high inflection, which contribute to its precision.

The Hárfólk dialects, found in central and western Aedeland, are the closest to Old Aedelish. In contrast, southern Aedelish dialects show strong influences from nearby Anarian languages. The northeastern dialects have incorporated so many Stoldavic loanwords that they are mutually intelligible with Wortsproke.

Education

Aedeland’s education system flips the traditional model where most resources go to the lowest performers. Education is not mandatory, and most children are taught at home. At age six, children are sent to live with neighbors or relatives. From ages nine to adulthood, the Ungrkorps (Youth Corps) plays a central role in shaping young lives. The primary goal is preparing young men for military service and young women for motherhood, but it also serves an educational function. Formal schools are rare, highly competitive, and almost entirely operated by religious orders. Only the most exceptional students are selected for formal education.

Although Aedeland boasts a literacy rate over 99% and its students perform well on tests, university admission is highly selective. Fewer than 10% of students are admitted to universities, and less than 5% of young adults aged 15-25 are enrolled in higher education. The Universities of Aulë and Luštra, the country’s most prestigious institutions, accept less than 5% of applicants.

Women's Rights

Aedelish society has been historically strongly patriarchal, and feminist groups have long opposed its cultural traditions. It is uncommon and socially unacceptable for married women to work, and although there are no legal restrictions, women do not hold positions of authority. Efforts have been made at reform under the Technate with scholars divided on the social utility of equality of the sexes. Aedeland has a history of legalized prostitution, and polygamy has been practiced at times, though both were discouraged under the Technate and subsequent government.

Ætt and Distrikt

In Aedelish society, the ætt is the traditional unit, representing a kin group or clan with origins in ancient tribal groups. The ættsrett is ancestral land held by the ætt in allodium, originating from the territories occupied by Guðfriðr Veiðikonungr's followers upon their arrival in Vesturland. According to ancient laws, the ættsrett cannot be divided. As an ætt grows, it must either expand by displacing neighbors, establish colonies, or transfer members to smaller ætts. Each ætt is composed of several families and governed by a council of elders, known as the ættþing, who hold near absolute authority.

Historically, ætt growth was achieved through displacement or reorganization, which led to conflicts, especially after the collapse of the First Stoldavic Empire. As a result, Aedeland expanded to territories in Åland, High Cykeria, Achilleio, Taures, and the Bulé Republics. Under the Technate, ætts were seen as a hindrance to industrial progress, and most were replaced by districts aligned with functional divisions, similar to company towns.

For over a century, workers have moved between districts based on vocation rather than kinship. Despite the loss of ancestral ættsretts, some ætt traditions remain, particularly among the wealthy or in remote areas. In modern Aedeland, a social division has developed, with an aristocratic class linked to historical ætts and a large underclass associated with districts.

Media

Newsprint remains the dominant media in Aedeland, with most regions publishing their own newspapers. ÆRILYS, based in Ærilar, is considered the national paper of record and has the largest readership. Other popular publications include Sladder, a weekly tabloid covering Aedelish society, and Leiðtogi, a daily focused on political and economic news.

Cinema is a leading modern art form in Aedeland, replacing theater as a key source of cultural unity. Known for its seriousness and idealized aesthetic style, Aedelish cinema is a significant cultural force. Television is banned, deemed an asocial threat to public health.

Media in Aedeland is heavily censored by the Home Office, focusing on entertainment deemed subversive or obscene. The government also censors publishers advocating for foreign entities or treason. Aedelish law imposes severe penalties for libel, slander, and spreading false information. However, protections for satire, academic, and political speech exist, though limited to certain venues. Speech at academic institutions or official political assemblies is largely unrestricted, including political cartoons and comedy shows, which cannot be censored under Aedelish law.