Auresia

Auresian Realm Dominio Auresian
Flag	Coat of arms
	File:Auresia emblem.png
Motto: Leo Numquam Dormit "The Lion Never Sleeps" (Pastanan) "Auresia Aeternum" "Auresia Eternal"
Anthem: Vindus Salva l'Imperatore Vind Save the Emperor
Locator map
Capital city	sample_city
Largest city	Porto Imperiale
Official language	Auresian
Other languages
Ethnic group
Religion	Orkanan
Demonym(s)	Auresian
Government
Government Type	Constitutional monarchy
Emperor	Cephorus V
Proedrus	Guglielmo di Polaggio
Legislature	Senate
Establishment
Foundation	1 Alhela 4466
Area
Total	xxx km2
Water %	xxx
Population
Total	xxx
Density	xxx/km2
Economy
Economy type	Market capitalist
GDP (total)	Ꞡ TBA
GDP per capita	Ꞡ TBA
Currency	Florin (ƒ) ()
Inequality index	TBA
Development index	TBA
Other information
Time zone	+0
Driving side	right
Calling code	+TBA
Internet code	.aur
Nation number	{{{nation number}}}

The State of Auresia (Dominio Auresian), or simply Auresia, is a sovereign constitutional monarchy in eastern coastal Anaria. Straddling the continental subregions of Anaria Major and Thultannia, it is bordered to its north by Halland and Livaria, to the south by 128, 129, 134 and Medovenia, and to the west by 148. Its capital is Cedelphia and its largest city is Porto Reale, the latter situated at the eastern mouth of the Hattaro Strait, connecting the two geographically disparate parts of the realm together.

Boasting a long-standing continuity, Auresia professes itself as one of the oldest continually extant nations in recorded history. According to tradition, the first instance of the Empire was born shortly after the new year of 4466 RH and has existed for over two millennia in various forms. Most consider the beginning of modern Auresia in the 7300s, during the Industrial Revolution; in which rapid technological and economic development had led the country towards establishing a global colonial empire through its newfound overseas territories. Much of the empire would be dismantled under decolonisation, however, spurring a change for the title for the Auresian monarchy, while many of the metropole's institutions have remained as fundamental components of the modern Auresian nation. To date, it remains an influential power in the fields of finance and commerce, serving as a trading hub for commodities in Anaria and the Stolvic trade, and as one of the preeminent military powers of Anaria.

History

Auresia as a united land appeared in the latter decades of the 43rd century, united by the military and diplomatic acumen of the legendary Adamo the Great, honoured in the nation's history as its first monarch. He drew the loose confederacy of the Triselene League into the early Union Kingdom of Auresia (''Regno Unito d'Auresia''), named after the coastal region where the leaders of the respective states first met with him to unify the lands. Adamo died in 4429 after a 41-year reign, and was succeeded by his eldest son, Manion, who strengthened the nation through various military endeavours which spread its influence westward and southward.

This nation state would exist through the next thousand years until being fractured by the War of the Banners in 4968, which began shortly after the death of Arlo III, who history remembers as the one force largely keeping the two factions opposed in policy and tradition apart. With his passing, the rival families - House Accardo in the east and House Lamberto in the west - began to openly oppose each other. This opposition expanded into open civil warfare within the next three years, and for nearly four decades the two factions would engage each other throughout the nation in bloody and contentious fighting.

The fighting initially seemed to favour the Lamberto faction, when in 5001 they successfully lured the leader of the Accardo into attending a gathering of leadership, under the guide of negotiating a truce and eventually a settlement. While gathered in supposedly neutral ground on the Bellucente Plain, Lorenzo Accardo was stabbed by a hidden assassin, but in the ensuing confusion was able to escape the tent and flee into the nearby woods. After several days of searching, his body was never found, and he was presumed dead or lost. The rest of Lorenzo Accardo's family was reportedly slain or missing after a Janessari raid on Lutant a week later, and the civil war was ended with the surrender of the last of the Accardo loyalists. The Lamberto victory was short-lived, however, as within just a few days of fighting being ended raids by the Rundeen pirates began, taking advantage of the nation's weakened state to pillage and terrorise settlements all along the North Anarian coast.

Numerous attempts in the next few years to identify and destroy the Rundeen strongholds proved only partially successful, and the pirate confederacy remained a threat for several decades. It was suspected that they may have been coming from safe havens along the southern Stoldavian coast, but regional disputes and a lack of desire to risk drawing the nations of the region into protracted conflict dissuaded the leadership in Cedelphia from committing forces to stamping them out. This inaction allowed them to remain active and threaten settlements throughout the Chessex, Aer, and Calcic straits. Despite this recalcitrance to take the fight to the Rundeen, the leadership in Cedelphia took steps to strengthen coastal and regional defence, and the nation's navy began to slowly rebuild. The delicate balance of power within the Council of Lords, which had collectively governed the nation since the end of the War of the Banners, was shifted dramatically by the appearance in 5044 of Cephorus Accardo, the grandson of Lorenzo Accardo who had been reported missing after the Janessari raid on Lutant. Having been taken by the mercenaries rather than slain, he had been adopted into their society and had become a part of them, rising to become first one of their foremost commanders and later their Jende'alor, or great chief. Unbound by the diplomatic and political strictures of the region, he used his forces to systematically hunt down the Rundeen and eliminate their safe havens after successfully routing their forces in a battle at Porto Imperiale.

At the time of his reappearance, Cephorus had one living relative who sat on the Council: his great-uncle Orazio Accardo, who had been left largely untouched for reasons never known outside of the higher echelons of the Lamberto family. In the intervening years he had become a voice for reason and moderation within the Council and was respected by its various interests. He was sent to greet his grandnephew when he arrived in Cedelphia and brought him before the Council. Despite the obvious fear the Janessari warlord created his position as a sort of folk hero to the people made him both a potentially useful presence and a potential threat to the power of the lords, but one that they could not openly address due to fear of popular sentiment turning against them. Cephorus was permitted to join his great-uncle in Council sessions when the elder statesman began to suffer from ill health and ultimately took his place when his ability to attend was no longer possible. This created the opportunity he would then seize gradually over time to transform Auresia forever.

Through a judicious use of his political cunning and skills as a motivator and manipulator of people, Alexandros made many friends within the Council, most especially among the merchants and the more militant members, to enable himself to maintain a quiet control over those important blocs without undue struggle or dispute. Over the course of the next several years, he enacted several reforms that both pushed modernization within the kingdom and promoted his popularity among the people. He became both an advocate for the well-being of the nation and its people, and a voice for the modernisation of its infrastructure and services to enable a more stable economic and social condition which improved living standards and attracted greater commerce to the country from regional and overseas entities. Gradually, despite not being speaker of the Council, Cephorus began to eclipse it as his popularity with the common folk grew. Thanks to him, roads and bridges had been built or renovated, houses of healing and charity had been opened to aid the less fortunate, and the poor laws had been amended to reduce their more draconian aspects while still providing for those in greatest need. Eventually, Cephorus' opinions became the Council's opinions, his thoughts its laws, and his voice its voice. A quiet attempt by the Lamberto family at rebellion against him was put down quickly and violently, with the last members of that family line being put to the sword between 5053 and 5055, ending their decades-old dispute once and for all.

And so it was that Cephorus Alexandros was chosen by the Chamber in a special session to oversee centralization of the authority of the confederacy. Renaming the nation the Auresian Empire, he became that central authority, and by the end of 5092 had tightened his influence to the point he had successfully achieved what forty years of civil war had not - a true nationalist unification. And thus, on Neo Annum 5093, he was proclaimed Dynast Emperor Cephorus I. To this day, over twenty-five centuries later, the line continues to rule.

Geography

Auresia is a vast realm stretching across a range of topographies. Its sheer size makes it a land of varied climates, from the humid rainforests in the south to the snowy mountain ranges in the north. The geographical disposition of Auresia has been an instrumental factor in its storied history, shaping the empire's economic, political, and cultural evolution.

The land can be primarily divided into several regions, each with its distinct geographic features:

Northern Mountain Ranges:

The north of Auresia is dominated by the vast mountain ranges known as the Adamaic Peaks. These snowy peaks are not only a formidable natural defense against potential northern invaders but are also rich in minerals. Mining towns have historically sprung up around these mountains, contributing significantly to Auresia's treasury. There are numerous tales of the dangerous creatures and hidden valleys within these mountains, many of which are yet unexplored.

Central Plains:

The heart of Auresia consists of sprawling plains, making it the breadbasket of the empire. The central plains, watered by numerous rivers and streams, have been the seat of agriculture for centuries. These fertile lands are dotted with farms, villages, and major cities that connect the empire. The Grand River, the most significant waterway in Auresia, flows through these plains, providing a natural highway for trade and transport.

Southern Rainforests:

The Auresian rainforests in the south are a treasure trove of biodiversity. Thick and teeming with life, these forests are home to various exotic animals and plants. The woods have historically been a source of valuable herbs, spices, and medicinal plants, making them a sought-after destination for traders and explorers alike. However, the dense foliage also poses challenges in terms of navigation, and many who venture deep into these forests never return.

Western Coasts:

The western coastlines of Auresia boast some of the most beautiful beaches and ports in the realm. Cities along these coasts have grown into major trading hubs, benefiting from the maritime trade routes. The waters are also rich in marine life, contributing to a thriving fishing industry. The picturesque beauty of these coasts has given rise to numerous tales of mermaids and sea monsters in Auresian folklore.

Eastern Highlands:

The highlands in the east present a unique blend of flat plateaus and rolling hills. These lands are known for their scenic beauty and have been a favorite retreat for Auresian royalty and aristocracy. The eastern highlands are also rich in minerals, and there are several mines exploiting these resources. Several fortified cities have been built on these highlands, serving as vantage points and defense against potential eastern threats.

Hattaro Straits:

To the south-east of Auresia lies the strategic Hattaro Straits. Control over these straits has historically been crucial for the empire, as it connects Auresia to the wealthy lands of Lianna and facilitates maritime trade routes. Over time, the empire has fortified the regions surrounding these straits to ensure they remain under Auresian control.

In terms of climate, Auresia's vastness ensures that it experiences a range of weather patterns. The northern mountain ranges are cold and snow-clad for most of the year. In contrast, the southern rainforests experience a tropical climate with heavy rainfall. The central plains have a temperate climate suitable for agriculture, while the coastal regions experience moderate weather with seasonal changes influenced by the sea.

Administrative Divisions:

Auresia is an empire of vast territories and, to manage such an expanse, it has a layered administrative structure. This structure ensures the efficient governance of the empire, maintaining a delicate balance between central authority and regional autonomy.

Provinces

The Auresian Empire is primarily divided into four significant provinces. Each province has its distinct cultural, historical, and geographic identity. These provinces serve as the primary administrative units and are governed by a provincial council.

1. Aquitania:
   • Description: This province is perhaps the most vibrant in Auresia, serving as the heartland of the empire. It boasts a mix of coastal cities, fertile plains, and significant historical sites.
   • Major cities:
     • Oseidon: Known as the city of the western gate, it stands at the western entrance to the Hattaro Straits. As the empire's port on the Medio Sea, Oseidon plays a crucial role in maritime trade and defense.
     • Impport: Often referred to as the city of ships, it's one of the world's largest ports. It's also home to the Imperial Maritime Institute.
     • Mystoke: Nestled on the shores, it's renowned for its strategic location.
     • Manciano: Dubbed the city of alabaster, Manciano is a major port city. Its most iconic feature is the Seven Sisters, a series of pale-white stone watchtowers that historically served as lookouts for impending naval attacks.
     • Rhegium: Known as the city of the harvest, Rhegium is surrounded by vast farms and grain fields. The city is also the epicenter of Auresian agriculture and houses the Imperial Agricultural Institute.
     • Aquileia: Further details about Aquileia weren't provided in the original text.
2. Iconium: Throughout the historical timeline provided, the city of Iconium has been mentioned during the years 1187, 1199, 1200, 1202, and 1203. Specific details or historical events regarding Iconium during these years are not provided. Tritemma:
   • Year: 1187
   • The exact significance of Tritemma in the year 1187 is not detailed. Cedelphia:
   • Year: c. 1187
   • Description: Known as the Eternal City and the Imperial City, Cedelphia stands as the capital of the Auresian Empire. This city is the headquarters for the government of Auresia, the Curia, and the Military of Auresia Imperial Armed Forces. Paladane:
   • Year: s. 1187
   • Description: Dubbed the "City of Lights", Paladane is a hub for entertainment and gaming. Whether it's gambling, horse racing, or various sports competitions, Paladane sees them all annually. The Argonaro Coliseum in this city hosts a wide array of such events. Verona:
   • Year: 1199 Gaaze:
   • Year: c. 1199
   • Description: Revered as the City of Scholars, Gaaze is home to the Grand Collegium, the Great Library of Auresia, the Imperial Natural Sciences Institute, and the Imperial Engineering Institute. Sardis:
   • Year: 1200 Reggello:
   • Year: n c. 1200
   • Description: Known as the City of the Dead, Reggello houses the empire's most extensive necropolis. It also hosts the Imperial Surgical Institute. Owing to the predominant hue of stone and marble used in its architecture, it's occasionally referred to as the Ivory Citadel. Salona:
   • Year: 1202
   • Details for Salona during this year are marked as "TBD" (To Be Determined). Potevio:
   • Year: 1203
   • Details for Potevio during this year are marked as "TBD". Narona:
   • Years: 1188, 1189, 1190, 1204, 1205 Valdoria:
   • Year: 1188 Valdolaine:
   • Description: Recognized as the City of Glass, Valdolaine stands as a bustling market exchange in Auresia for precious metals, gemstones, and notably, glassblowing and glass manufacturing. The city is renowned for producing Valdorian glass, an intricate and colorful commodity celebrated across the empire. Raetia:
   • Year: 1189
   • Description: The smallest prefecture in Auresia, consisting of three islands on the empire's northern coast. Famous for its seaside resorts, its regular inhabitants number just ten thousand. Notable resort towns include Oradam and Talloran. Valentia:
   • Year: 1190 Abessios:
   • Year: c. 1190
   • Description: Often described as the City of Canals, Abessios sprawls on the waters of Lake Ilaro. A significant tourist attraction of the empire, its canals and architectural beauty draw visitors from all over. Dolcega:
   • Year: 1204 Fivizzano:
   • Year: c. 1204
   • Description: Denoted as the City of Gardens, Fivizzano is home to the Imperial Botanical Institute, the Foresters Academy, and the High Imperium Gardens. This city hosts some of the empire's affluent areas, including the Dolcega Valley and Lake Artania. Elysion:
   • Year: 1205
   • Details for Elysion during this year are marked as "TBD". Oriensis:
   • Years: 1191, 1192, 1193, 1208, 1209 Dardania:
   • Year: 1191 Bellucente:
   • Year: n. 1191
   • Description: Acclaimed as the City of Soldiers, Bellucente houses the Imperial War Academy and the Troida Works. Numidia:
   • Year: 1192 Lutant:
   • Year: c n. shores of 1192
   • Description: Honored as the City of the Sea, Lutant is the epicenter of much of Auresia's fishing industry and serves as a significant market for seafood. The city boasts a major port and is pivotal for the empire's maritime trade. Calipsa:
   • Year: 1193 Gallia:
   • Year: 1208 Petra:
   • Year: c. shores of 1208
   • Description: Renowned as the City of Arts & Music, Petra is home to the Imperial Fine Arts Academy and the Petra Opera House, which collaborates with the Grand Opera House in Cedelphia for top-tier performances. Saradino:
   • Year: 1209
   • Details for Saradino during this year are marked as "TBD".

Colonies of Auresia: Auresia maintains several overseas colonial holdings. Each is governed by a specially ranked officer, given distinct powers to enforce the empire's policies for that territory. At the central level, these colonies are managed by the Foreign Office Auresia, facilitating communication of imperial directives.

Prefectures:

Each province is further divided into eight prefectures. Prefectures are smaller administrative units that oversee several districts. They are typically named after their geographic location or a significant historical figure or event.

Districts:

Prefectures consist of ten districts each. Districts are the smallest administrative units and often represent a city and its surrounding areas. The naming convention for districts involves using directional terms like east, west, north, or south in combination with the prefecture's name. For instance, districts in a prefecture named "Adama" might be referred to as "East Adama" or "North Adama."

Governance:

The hierarchical structure of provinces, prefectures, and districts allows the Auresian Empire to maintain control over its vast territories. Each administrative level has its council and officials responsible for governance, law enforcement, taxation, and infrastructure development. The Dynast Sovereign, currently Cephorus IV, oversees this administrative framework, ensuring that the provinces remain loyal and contribute to the empire's greater good.

Government & Politics

Auresia has a constitutional monarchy within a parliamentary democracy.

Monarch

Central executive prerogative is held by the monarch, who is head of state. They delegate this power to the head of government and the legislature. Thus, the government of the nation acts on behalf of, and in the name of, the monarch. The institutions of government in the nation are collectively referred to as Il governo di Sua Maestà (His Majesty's Government). The monarch resides in Veneziano Palace, which stands atop the hill of the same name, in the centre of the Five Hills District of Cedelphia.

The present occupant of the Golden Lion Throne is Emperor Cephorus V, who has reigned since 7688 when he succeeded his mother Empress Eshiala, the first non-Dynast sovereign in over two milennia, and the first empress regnant in nearly three centuries. He was the born during the reign of his grandfather, Torian I, and is the great great grandson of Cephorus IV Maximus, who died in 7637 after a 70-year reign. His heir apparent is his eldest son Elrood, the Prince Imperial.

The line of the last four monarchs of the House of Alexandros is as follows:

• Cephorus IV Maximus
  • lived 7537-7637 (aged 100)
  • reigned 7567-7637 (70 years)
• Torian I
  • lived 7579-7675 (aged 96)
  • reigned 7637-7675 (38 years)
• Eshiala I
  • lived 7601-7689 (aged 87)
  • reigned 7675-7688 (13 years)
• Cephorus V
  • born 7623 (aged 65)
  • reigned 7688-present

President

The Proedros, as head of government, is responsible for setting and overseeing the government of the nation. Their full title in Hallish is "President of the Senate" (Presidente del Senato). They are the leader of the majority party or coalition of parties in the Senate after each general election. This individual is summoned by the emperor following the election and invited to form a government. They serve concurrently with the term of the Senate and retain their office as long as they retain the confidence of the legislature. The current president is Guglielmo di Polaggio, the leader of the Partito Nazionale Liberale, the Liberal National Party.

Senate

The Senate (Senato d'Auresia) is the unicameral legislature of the nation, with 577 members. They are elected by popular vote by all Auresian citizens at least 18 years of age in a general election held every four years. Each senator represents a constituent district of approximately 155,000 people. Currently, five political parties are represented within the Senate - the centre-left Liberal National Party (Partito Nazionale Liberale, PNL), the centre-right United Democratic Party (Partito Democratico Unito, PDU), the centrist New Compromise Party (Partito Nuovo Compromesso, PNC), the left-wing Progressive Action Party (Partito D'Azione Progressista, PDP), and right-wing Independent Reform Party (Partito Riformatore Indipendente, PRI).

Supreme Court

The Supreme Court (Corte Suprema d'Auresia) is the highest judicial tribunal of the realm. The body consists of the Chief Justice and eight Justices, who sit together as the final level of judicial review within the nation. The members of the court are selected, interviewed, and short-listed by the Judicial Selections Committee consisting of the Chief Justice and a panel of six senior judges. These nominees are then considered and approved by the Senate. Each member serves for life.

Law & Criminal Justice

Main article: Crime & Punishment in Auresia

The courts of Auresia are separated by administrative areas. There is the Supreme Court of Auresia in Cedelphia at the highest level. There are the courts from that point at the provincial, prefectural, district, and community level. These courts are led by a Promagistrate, Prime Magistrate, Magistrate, and Sub-Magistrate, respectively.

A single individual holding the title of "Magistrate Vicarius" is appointed by the provincial governor to manage the legal affairs of a provincial prefecture. These officers answer to the provincial Promagistrate. In an Auresian courtroom, there is no jury of peers. The sitting magistrate reviews all pertinent information, hears commentary from defense and prosecution, and makes a decision from that point. In each case, an appeal moves up to the next level of judicial authority. If a case reaches the Supreme Court, they can hear the case or refuse. If they refuse, the ruling of the provincial Promagistrate is upheld, and no further action on that case may be made.

Foreign Relations

Main Article: Foreign Relations of Auresia

Foreign policy in Auresia is dictated by the Emperor and enforced, promoted, and maintained by the Foreign Office Auresia (Foreign Office). The general practice of the empire is to keep business and politics separate and to promote healthy commerce and trade, but it is acknowledged that such is not always possible.

Military Main Article: Military_of_Auresia (Imperial Auresian Armed Forces)

The military might of Auresia is a unified armed service known as the Sovereign Armed Forces. These forces are split between the ground, fleet, air, and special operations branches. They are controlled at their pinnacle by the Emperor, who exercises his authority over military activities through the Lords Paramount. Under the Lords Paramount is the Minister of War - Processus F. Cavazerre, and the Supreme Military Commander - Proconsul Antono D. Cholini (Antono Cholini) - who serve as the overall administrator and direct military commander of the forces in the field. Under this officer's authority operates Military High Command, which consists of the heads of the four services. Whether or not Auresia has the largest war machine in the world, it is a national pride. It fields well-trained ground forces supported by some of the best maritime and airborne warships in the world. It has remained a cornerstone of imperial policy to maintain a strong defense and be capable of swift, flexible response. The many hard and brutal lessons of the Pan-Anarian War have hardened the force into one that prizes speed and firepower, mobility, and adaptability.

Economy

Main Articles: Economy of Auresia, Businesses of Auresia, Products of Auresia

Agriculture Both hardwood and softwood are grown in specially-managed tree farms and used in domestic construction and exported abroad. Because of the levels of material available, Auresia does not export much hardwood. Auresia has a specialized group of ranger-troopers known as the Imperial Foresters. They are a proud, elite search and rescue group that also is charged with conservation and control of hunting in the various provinces. Auresian cuisine is particular about fresh vegetables and fruits, and the empire has extensive farmland which provides these needs. The markets of large cities and small towns alike are daily stocked with freshly picked and washed produce, and this fresh preference has translated to the delicious dishes found at tables across the empire. Because of its long series of coastlines, Auresia has a diet that is healthy in seafood, which Auresian trawlers harvest in large quantities every year. They package and export a good bit of fish and shrimp. There are also flooded dikes that are fish farms, where fish and shrimp alike are grown for harvesting.

Mining The Atenian mountains that dominate a large portion of the empire's southeastern provinces are home to mines for numerous natural resources. Auresia tends to keep its local production for local use, most especially industry-important materials. What Auresia cannot produce on its own, it imports in exchange for commodities that the empire has in abundance.

Manufacturing The industrial heartlands of Auresia are situated in the northeastern part of the empire, in the two provinces that flank the Hattaro Straits, and in the easternmost regions of the realm. Auresia is home to some of the most extensive air and maritime shipyards in the world, and the areas in between are home to numerous industries. Central Auresia is home to extensive agriculture. Northern Auresia has many textile factories and mills. Because of the empire's countless industries and range of businesses, Auresia has products that are traded with others worldwide for a variety of needs. Assembly lines have become common in heavy and mass production industries.

Transport Transportation in Auresia is done via horse, bicycle, and carriage still commonly, as well as foot transit. All major cities and large towns are connected by rail. From there, stagecoach companies offer transit to the nearby towns and villages or to further destinations for a slightly higher price. Most citizens own their bicycles, which they enjoy riding. Those who can make use of coaches or carriages, while trains are popular for traveling from city to city or town to town. Riverboats also travel the rivers and waterways of the empire, carrying passengers and cargo from place to place.

Trade Auresia has open and fair trade with any and all nations that approach the empire in good faith and seek reasonable trade with mutual benefit. The state of diplomatic affairs between Auresia and other nations tends to reflect in the trade relations between them. There are some instances, though, of those states where Auresia has less than stellar relations having wide-ranging trade and exchange in recognition of mutual need and necessity.

Energy Auresia draws its power supply from three main sources - coal, natural gas, and hydroelectricity. The empire proper contains considerable natural gas resources and also has access to oil, while its coal is drawn primarily from its southern mountains and from one of its major overseas colonies.

Science & Technology

Auresia has always maintained an atmosphere of innovation and advancement in its sciences and the collegiums and prominent laboratories of the empire are known to be hubs of research and development. Teams of specialists and theorists in many fields have contributed in ways both large and small and their efforts have helped in innumerable ways to improve how things are done, in what manner they are done, or in improving the productivity and effectiveness of said process. Auresian scientists and engineers have contributed extensively to science and medicine over the centuries such as Varnius R. Acilida, Varnius Lord Acilida, and his development of thermite; R. S. Belmondo, Rolan Belmondo, and his Belmondo difference engine, Difference Engine; and Leonardo G. Caprivi, Leonardo Caprivi, and his discoveries of germ theory and the development of antiseptic medical procedures. Also credited to Auresian scientists and doctors are the development of morphine, penicillin, antiseptic surgical methods, and the process known as Tech Pasteurization Tech. Its engineers have likewise contributed Tech Morse Code Tech, the telephone, phonograph, and microphone.

Slave Trade

exists within the empire in the form of indentured servitude. This serves as both a means of repaying debts and as a punishment. Typically, someone so indentured is put into a hard labor or service job with careful observation which they must perform to set conditions to the satisfaction of their superior. Such servitude terms are meted out in five, ten, and twenty-year increments. Full-fledged slavery does not exist within the empire. At the establishment of the realm, the founders decreed that slavery was an unnecessary practice within the realm and thus it is not practiced. How the empire feels about the practice in other lands, most especially those Auresia does business with, is not clear.

Demographics

Urbanisation Urbanisation Urbanisation As the growth of industrialization has spread throughout the empire, various steps have been taken to ensure that overpopulation of the major cities does not occur. The Curia maintains a detailed census of all living within cities and large towns and the use of industry has kept populations largely stable in outlying areas. While industry is a burgeoning part of imperial business and employment, there is still extensive farming done. Large and small towns and villages still are situated near and support said farms. While the major cities of the empire have grown in population since the industrial revolution, some 80% of the population of Auresia continues to live in towns and villages focused on lighter industry and agriculture, livestock.

Ethnic Groups Ethnic Groups Ethnic Groups Auresia is comprised of three ethnic groups - the Cheltai, Karsk, and Emther. These are amalgamated into one nationality - Auresians - though these groups still predominantly live in their native regions of the empire. Quite a bit of cultural mingling has taken place though, and the empire can accredit much of its stability to the interactivity between the peoples.

Languages Languages Languages The language of the empire is Auresian Language Auresian. It is a tongue that originated centuries before the empire itself in the Pastanan Language Pastanan tongue. All commerce, government, and other public affairs are conducted in spoken and written Auresian only. Signage and notices within the empire are posted in Auresian with no additional translations.

Religion Religion Religion Since time immemorial, the region that is now the Auresian empire has been tied together by two common factors - business and faith. This part of the world and some surrounding regions are the hub of their faith - known as the Lazarianism, Church of Lazarian - which has been practiced in these lands for over four thousand years. It is the dominant faith of the empire and is the official state religion. Other religious practices and groups are tolerated and allowed freely, though those that indulge in dangerous practices or ritual are dealt with accordingly. In his capacity as ruler, the Emperor is the defender of the faith.

Migration Migration Migration Migration within the empire is largely limited to business and trade. Foreign immigrants to Auresia can apply for what is formally known by the Ministry of State Security Auresia Ministry of State Security as Foreign National Status. While they are civilians of the empire, only under very special circumstances are they able to gain citizenship, serve in the military, or be considered for political appointment.

Education

Beginning at the age of five, all boys and girls must begin the work to acquire their General Education Certificate. Their first five years of education are considered primary schooling, their last five as secondary schooling. During this time, they start out with focus on basic education, which includes reading, writing, mathematics, and general history as well as physical activities. Their secondary years center on advanced subjects including higher mathematics, sciences, and philosophy. Boys also take courses in weapons, survival, and leadership as well as gentleman standards. Girls take courses in homemaking, child care, home economics, and the things important to a lady. All students take courses in general business and finance. Youth who achieve a certain level of academic status - quite high marks and performance in classwork, testing, and project assignments - can qualify for attendance to their provincial collegium. All men who attend university do so for two years and then take their service tour in the military. Once training is complete, they can continue their education. Universities are not permitted by law to have or maintain fraternities or sororities and all sports are extracurricular. All primary and secondary instructors are addressed as either Docent if holding a Baccalaureus or Dominus degree or as Professor if holding a Magister''s degree.

Healthcare

All cities, towns, and most larger villages have numerous clinics which can attend the general medical care of their residents. More serious conditions or troubles which the doctor feels require further attention and more specialized care are referred to a hospital. The Imperial Public Health Service maintains a presence in towns and cities across the empire and all doctors and nurses in the empire are members.

Culture

Main Article: Cuisine of Auresia Main Article: Culture of Auresia

The empire is a nation built upon an elaborate tapestry woven of traditions in food, dress, family, art, and science that all serve to make it the magnificent land it is built into over the centuries.