• Main article: Dhonowlgos

In contrast to Tharna and most places in Gotha, there is no evidence of other hominid occupants besides modern humans in the northern Altaia region dating back beyond ten thousand years. However, research conducted by anthropologists has failed to uncover human occupation evidence from earlier periods. Many Anarian anthropologists criticize Wolgos anthropological research, viewing their research as superficial and accuse them of destroying evidence and archaeological sites in pursuit of attention-grabbing artifacts to attract paying customers to their showrooms. Furthermore, the study of Gothan prehistory in The Bind faces significant hindrance from religious and supremacist dogma, causing Anarian anthropologists to cast doubt on or dismiss the conclusions put forth by the Wolgos.

The vast expanse of The Bind was once inhabited by various cultures prior to Anarian colonization, characterized by a nomadic lifestyle dictated by the cycles of Gotha and weather. These ancient peoples traversed the expansive Altaian plains, deserts, and river basins, searching for game and foraging vegetation. altaian_range Wolgos conquerors encountered some instances of sedentary settlements in the rocky foothills of the Altaian range, where mud brick villages were ingeniously built into naturally protective rock formations. Regrettably, none of these settlements remain today, but they can be studied through the sketches Wolgos settlers made and artifacts, such as pottery, now displayed in various acquisition societies' showrooms. Additionally, the Nuss River once housed a few farming communities cultivating maize and sweet potatoes close to their riverside village societies, but they were ultimately displaced and destroyed by Wolgos settlers during the Nuss expansion. Ak'lam Among the ancient Nuss settlements, the A’klam achieved a notable level of development, forming federations of villages that engaged in trade, exchanging pottery, animal skins, clothing, herbs, and other locally produced goods. These federations were known to have trade connections with shriaav settlements to the east. telwoti Amidst the changes brought about by colonization, the Telwoti people in the Bind's article regions have managed to preserve their old customs and pre-colonization way of life. Embracing a nomadic existence, their livelihood revolves around seal hunting and fur processing, enriching their culture through practices connected to their environment.

Early settlements in the bay of New Xedun were established by Stoldavians from the Aedeland and Vittmark regions of the Second Stoldavian Empire. Many settlers were motivated to embark on a journey to the remote northern Altaia to escape political or religious persecution or seek fortunes in the unexplored lands. The early settlers constructed simple villages from local timber, attempted to grow Stoldavian crops in the poorly suited climate, and relied on fishing along the coast for sustenance.

The colony consisted of distant and isolated villages that took colonists days to reach each other. The feeling of isolation was pervasive among the settlers, further compounded by the effects of the Tyreal oscillations, leading to the freezing over and sealing of the north-west passage to Anaria for extended periods. Despite the challenges, the colonies managed to slowly grow and maintain a foothold through various Tyreal oscillations. They were self-sufficient, with occasional exports of timber and furs to their increasingly distant homeland, particularly during the highs of Tyreal summer years. However, the isolation and lack of economic returns from the colony to the motherland caused the Second Stoldavian Empire to reduce support and even contemplate abandoning the settlers to their own means. As the Second Stoldavian Empire decayed, the colony eventually became cut off from all support and contact from Anaria. Nonetheless, the governors remained aligned to the Second Stoldavian Empire, even though they were ignorant of its faith. They continued to develop the settlements, unknowingly setting the stage for future Wolgos settlement in the region.

New Xedun was established upon the conquered Dolmer colonial settlements in northern Altaia, which were left to fend for themselves by the decaying Second Stoldavian Empire. These settlements were small villages captured by a naval Wolgos force, and the inhabitants were compelled to build a broch and town to accommodate incoming settlers. The colonization process began in Dhonowlgos when The 125th Vlroicha of Dhonowlgos commissioned the creation of the nation's first navy in the form of five Seafaring hordes in the year xxxx. These hordes were tasked with defending the Wolgos coast, engaging in piracy, and ransacking the coasts of the declining Stoldavian empire. Unlike regular navies, they operated without a central command and were guided by spiritual guidance and loyalty to the monasteries.

The hordes became a lucrative source of revenue for the empire and primarily patrolled the stormy seas, avoiding encounters with Levarian fleets, who were also profiteering from the Stoldavian decline. The idea of colonization piqued the interest of Dhonowlgos when Captain Mughowor Noskhralem, the leader of the 4th horde, met with an Levarian admiral in the mutually ransacked Stoldavia town of XXXX. From the Levarian Admiral, he learned of their recent annexation of Altaian colonies from Stoldavia, which inspired Captain Mughowor to formulate a daring plan for similar gains. The 4th horde returned to Dhonowlgos, and the captain sought an audience with the Vlroicha. He proposed that, backed by faith alone, the monasteries send five ships of settlers to coordinate from a map presented to the Vlroicha, promising to bring untold glory to the empire. Although the concept of colonization was not fully understood by the monks, they were enticed by the promise of glory and backed by the captain's esteemed reputation.

On xxxx, the horde set sail towards the Arctic Sea and reached the bay of hope (as it was then known) the following year. There, the horde encountered various isolated Dolmer villages struggling to survive amidst the wilderness. The fleet conducted raiding parties, capturing the villagers and forcing them to build a broch and various long houses for the incoming Wolgos settlers. Unfortunately, the vast majority of Dolmers perished during the construction of the town, but their efforts enabled the Wolgos settlers to begin an unimpeded development of nearby resources and engage in fur and timber exports back to Dhonowlgos. In honour of their homeland, the settlers named the territory New Xedun. Upon the Horde's return to Dhonowlgos, accompanied by settlers' caravels filled with fur and timber, the ecstatic monks rewarded Captain Mughowor with lavish state and bestowed upon him the title of The Reaper of the Oceans.

The success of the endeavor immediately catalyzed efforts towards colonization and emigration to New Xedun throughout Dhonowlgos.

• Main article: Pan Anarian War
• Main article: Häverist-Wolgos War

In xxxx, Dhownolgos joined the Pan-Anarian war at the request of the Kingdom of Helreich, driven by its true motive of expanding into Anaria. Initially assisting Helreich, the Wolgos eventually took control of Mandara, exploiting and pillaging the area for their own benefit. As Dhownolgos extended its occupation over other Anarian lands, it faced challenges in dealing with disparate cultures and people who found the Wolgos way of thinking incompatible. This strain led to diverting more resources from its New Xedun industry and populace. The defense of the North West passage was particularly taxing, contributing to war weariness among the colony's residents as they tried to protect their homeland. During this time, the once-reclusive Wolgos subspecies became known across Anaria for their ruthlessness, sadism, and savagery in actions, towards prisoners and civilians alike. Their occupation brought terror to populations unfamiliar with the Wolgos, whose calls for mercy and compassion were often met with brutal outcomes. Allies quickly regretted inviting the Wolgos hermit nation into the war as more of their atrocities came to light, souring relations.

In the year XXXX, the tides of fate turned against Dhonowlgos. Once allies, Helreich unleashed a ferocious onslaught upon the war-weary empire. Driven by both repulsion at Wolgos atrocities and the thirst for plundering the empire's accumulated wealth, Helreich's invasion shattered Dhonowlgos' defence lines. The retreating Wolgos left a trail of devastation and horror, annihilating entire populations and transforming once-thriving lands into grim landscapes of despair.

Amidst the chaos, Anarian forces ventured into the heart of the Wolgos homeland. To their dismay, they stumbled upon the Eokoeser, a human ethnic group brutally subjugated and reduced to mere beasts of burden by the Wolgos. The Anarians witnessed firsthand the depths of depravity the Wolgos were capable of, solidifying the image of malevolence that would forever haunt the Anarian consciousness. In the face of mounting odds, Dhonowlgos managed to maintain a slender thread of hope—a protected passage to the New Xedun colony. As treasured riches and elite figures sought refuge through this precarious lifeline, the commoners, too, endeavoured to escape the ravages of war. Over the span of three agonizing years, hundreds of thousands sought sanctuary through the perilous passage.

In time, peace was achieved through negotiation. Anarian powers, wearied by war, yearned for tranquillity, yet demanded radical change. The treaty of Angenvor was struck, stripping the Wolgos of their ancestral homeland and exiling them to the distant shores of Altaia. A resounding message echoed through the ages—the malevolent subspecies, once feared and reviled, would threaten Anarian civilization no longer.

The New Xedun colony became the cradle of a new era, as the Whorleda and D’richo sought to rebuild amidst the wreckage left by the war’s legacy. Yet, despite their efforts, the wounds of resentment ran deep, forever staining the legitimacy of the old order.

Amidst the vast expanse of New Xedun, the monastic regime struggled to retain its once unassailable authority. Thousands of years of cherished heritage in their homeland had been lost, eroding the legitimacy that had once held the monastic order together. In contrast, the Hlrike, whose valor and heroism during the war and evacuation had become legendary, garnered immense popularity among the Wolgos exiles.

As the years passed, a profound divide emerged between the Hlrike and the Whorleda, born from the latter's faltering management of the fledgling settlement of New Xedun. The Whorleda, unmoored from their abbeys and sacred sites, found themselves grappling with disorganization and indecision. They turned to mystic monks, seeking visions and divinations to guide their decisions, but their choices only led to chaos and hindered societal reconstruction, leaving the Wolgos defenseless and mired in adversity.

In the year XXXX, the Hlrike, bolstered by overwhelming popular support, made a decisive move. A bloodless coup unfolded, toppling the Whorleda administration and relegating the once-powerful monks and preachers to ceremonial and advisory roles. Their influence over the new Hlrike-led administration became mere whispers in the ears of those in power.

Out of the upheaval emerged a new entity—the Bind—a military dictatorship that sought to unify the Wolgos under a single banner. Under the capable administration of the military, order was finally brought to the chaotic territory, providing the fertile ground for industry and the economy to bloom. Cities sprouted like blossoms across the landscape, farmlands extended their reach, and mines and industries burgeoned with productivity. The Eokoeser slave population, brutally subjugated, was systematically increased through breeding, further fueling the nation's rapid growth in the virgin lands of Altaia. Wolgos settlements expanded inland, penetrating deep into the heart of Altaia, crisscrossing lakes, plains, and rivers, leaving their indelible mark upon the untamed wilderness.

The Bind, guided by a strong sense of unity and purpose, forged its path forward, leaving behind the turmoil of the past. The legacy of the Hlrike coup and the subsequent Whorleda purge would forever shape the destiny of the Wolgos in their newfound home.

As the caravans of settlers journeyed beyond the flourishing Nuss valley, a more conservative and religious faction of Wolgos chose a different path, settling in the rugged terrain known as the Divide Rise Highlands. These settlers sought to recreate a society reminiscent of old Dhownolgos, embracing a more fundamentalist interpretation of their faith, Dlroch’veldr, which now relied on lay preachers instead of monks. Unlike their counterparts in the New Xedun region, these New Kingdom settlers vehemently rejected the use of Eokoeser and other slaves, taking an exclusively exclusionary stance that allowed only Wolgos to reside within their territories.

The New Kingdoms held a strict and unwavering commitment to their fundamentalist beliefs, imposing their religious practices on all who dwelled within their lands. Outsiders were forbidden, and even fellow Wolgos who did not adhere to the New Kingdom's particular form of Dlroch’veldr faced harsh consequences. The settlers were unwavering in their conviction, refusing to compromise their faith or traditions for any reason. Among the most striking features of these New Kingdom settlers was their fervent belief in safeguarding the modesty of the soul. To achieve this, they adopted a peculiar practice of concealing their eyes from others. Whether through veils, sunglasses, or bands of semi-translucent cloth, the settlers obscured their gaze from the world. Those who dared to reveal their eyes to others were subject to strict punishment, and in more extreme cases, they were even blinded as a severe consequence for breaking their community's sacred code.

The New Kingdoms were a society unto themselves, preserving their beliefs and traditions within the confines of the Divide Rise Highlands. This unwavering adherence to their faith and their distinctive customs set them apart from the rest of the Bind, creating a stark contrast between the two regions in terms of ideology and way of life. Their closed society stood as a testament to their devotion to the fundamentalist principles of Dlroch’veldr, and they remained steadfast in their determination to uphold their beliefs, no matter the cost.

The Conquest of the Sriaav city-states was a series of significant events that took place from XXXX to XXXX, culminating in the signing of the historic Treaty of Naga Yillan. The city-states were a collection of self-ruling villages and towns located along the Bind Shangti coast and outer Nuss River. The Sriaav, who had settled there a few centuries earlier, had already broken free from the kamuran Empire's control by that time.

The Wolgos Empire encountered the Sriaav in the year XXXX and, with systematic efficiency, began enslaving village after village. While there were some battles fought against larger towns, the overall conquest process was relatively smooth and persistent, enabled by the Wolgos' military might.

However, the Sriaav city-states' disarray and overestimation of the Wolgos military strength led them to realize that resistance would only lead to further hardship. Seeking a resolution, the Sriaav united their efforts and proposed a truce, which, in reality, was a treaty of surrender. The terms of the treaty allowed the Sriaav to accept annexation and become subjects of Dhonowlgos. In an exceptional move, the treaty also ensured that the Sriaav would not be turned into Eokoeser, and they would be allowed to coexist alongside the Wolgos settlers.

The historic Treaty of Naga Yillan was named after the village where it was signed, and it was a significant milestone in inter-species interaction within the Bind. Many believed that the Wolgos Empire accepted the treaty not only to absorb existing infrastructure but also to prevent harsh resistance to assimilation.

To this day, the Treaty of Naga Yillan still outlines the terms of inter-species interaction in the Bind and guarantees the Sriaav's status as semi-free citizens. This pivotal document, which has shaped the coexistence of the Wolgos and the Sriaav, can be observed and studied at the prestigious Cosmopolitan Museum in Kalsulan, serving as a tangible reminder of the historical events that shaped the region.

By XXXX, the once proud and independent Ak'lam tribes had been marginalized and enslaved, their once-thriving hill chiefdoms now conquered by the Wolgos Empire. The decisive Battle of the Steppes, which took place on the second month of XXXx, marked a symbolic turning point in the Ak’lam's subjugation. In this battle, a young Hlrike squire named Xuxowoch Moghumus displayed exceptional prowess and luck, as he managed to strike down the commanding Ak’lam chief, shattering their morale and solidifying Wolgos dominion.

Xuxowoch's actions during the battle, where he defeated the chief with a single, brutal blow, have become legendary in Wolgos history. Unfortunately, the account of the chief's death is recounted with gruesome details, stating that Xuxowoch's fury drove him to disembowel the fallen chief by reaching through his anus and pulling out his viscera. The battle's conclusion in Favor of the Wolgos marked the beginning of a new era of Wolgos dominance, and artistic renditions commemorating Xuxowoch's feat now adorn various public places throughout the Bind.

In the years following the Battle of the Steppes, the Ak’lam were integrated into the Wolgos legal framework. Due to their significant population, complete enslavement was not feasible, and instead, the Wolgos Empire pursued a policy of control and exploitation. In XXXX, hostilities ceased as both parties signed the Treaty of the Steppe. The treaty recognized Wolgos authority over the Ak’lam and required the Ak’lam to disarm and abandon any claims of independence. In return, the treaty offered certain guarantees, including the recognition of Ak’lam freedoms, self-determination, and the safeguarding of their welfare.

While the treaty brought benefits in the long run, it initially caused grievances within Wolgos society. Many saw it as a step back from the policy of complete imperial subjugation, and the emancipation of Ak’lam slaves led to economic disturbances. However, over the following decade, the Wolgos Empire managed to extend its control over the Ak’lam tribes, exploiting them for profit. Wolgos profiteers flocked to the Ak’lam territories, selling them overpriced goods and services while trapping them in a cycle of debt and exploitation. This arrangement ensured that the Ak’lam, though seemingly “independent,” were effectively under the Empire's control.

As time went on, the Ak’lam lost their nomadic way of life, settling near Wolgos cities to access basic necessities. Many Ak’lam became the backbone of Wolgos agriculture, toiling under constant harassment and living in a state of unofficial serfdom. Although some might consider themselves “free” or “wild,” their lives are far from the freedom they once cherished, and they remain trapped in a web of control woven by the Wolgos Empire.

The Ak’lomanalan Revolutionary Republic emerged as a formidable neighbor to the south of the Bind, carved out of the tribal lands surrounding the Lomanalik Bay, which is now known as the Wlwrying Bay. This young republic owed its foundation to the visionary activist and chief, Omalokol Nolomaninak, who, with clandestine support from the Hellish government, sought to create an independent nation for Ak’lam refugees fleeing the oppressive rule of the Bind. To maintain appearances and abide by the New Hoffnung Treaty, the Hellish government cleverly orchestrated “beneficial” trade deals through foreign front companies to provide resources and training to the fledgling nation.

With the aid of the Hellish support, the Ak’lomanalan Revolutionary Republic quickly established the capital city of Maralimbakan, where the basic infrastructure of a budding nation began to take shape. A barracks, town hall, president's residence, congress, ammunition workshop, wells, printing shop, and clinic formed the core of the city, projecting a front of civilization to the rest of the world.

In the years following its inception, the Ak’lomanalan Revolutionary Republic focused on building institutions and spreading anti-Wolgos propaganda among its people. The Wolgos closely monitored the republic's developments, concerned about the potential threat it posed to their dominance in the region. Meanwhile, the Hellish government hoped that supporting the new nation would garner international recognition for its existence and independence.

However, after six years of the republic's existence, the Bind declared it null and void, citing provisions in the Treaty of New Hoffnug that allowed them to recover resources that had migrated away. The republic heavily relied on foreign food shipments, making it vulnerable to economic pressure. The Wolgos initiated a blockade program against the nation's inland and sea trade routes, marking the beginning of what came to be known as the 1000 Days War.

During the war, the Ak’lomanalan Revolutionary Republic struggled to maintain its independence, facing both military and economic challenges. The conflict proved to be a gruelling test of endurance and resilience for both sides, as the revolutionary republic fought to survive against the might of the Wolgos Empire. The war's outcome would determine the future of the young nation and its people, as they sought to secure their right to self-determination and freedom from Wolgos rule.

The 1000 Days War was a conflict that lasted over a thousand days, more accurately around four years, proving to be longer and more challenging than the Wolgos had anticipated. Initially, the Wolgos believed that a blockade would lead to starvation, panic, and chaos, demobilizing Ak'lomanalan and making it susceptible to quick conquest and territorial expansion. However, the Ak'lam showed remarkable resilience and determination.

As faced with starvation, the Ak'lam declared martial law, and their elders convened in a congress to draft the “Peoples Resolution.” This revolutionary document called for the immediate collectivization of all tribes into a grand tribe, eliminating individual gain and property, in line with the Ak'lam principles. The resolution led to systematic redistribution of foodstuffs and rationing. Warrior leaders mobilized peasants to expand subsistence farming within communes that could be swiftly relocated if needed. Some peasants were mobilized into mobile camps to produce gunpowder and ammunition from local resources like charcoal and bronze, while others formed units to transport goods and lay hidden telegraph wires for communication.

The Wolgos launched bombardments from the coast upon Ak'lam's capital city, only to find it evacuated and stripped of all machinery. Some Wolgos fell victim to booby traps during their landing. Unprepared for mobile subsistence-supported assailants, the Wolgos faced challenges tracking the elusive Ak'lam communes, who maintained a well-running guerrilla force, communicating through hidden short-range telegraph wires unbeknownst to the Wolgos.

As the Wolgos militia suffered losses due to ambushes and traps, their traditional tactics for large-scale battles against conventional armies proved ineffective. Morale began to decline as they fought against what they perceived as a “phantom nation.” The Hlrike intervened to prevent further deterioration, implementing a tactic of dividing the theater into sectors and purging each one. They used captured Ak'lam knowledge to learn their ancient migration routes, systematically cutting off their migration corridors to food sources. Eventually, albeit slowly, the Ak'lam communes were subjugated one after another, and mentioning Ak'lomanalan was forbidden as the Wolgos sought revenge. Horrifying acts of vengeance were perpetrated in each sector, with Wolgos civilian soldiers allowed to feed on the commune's leader in front of their followers, women subjected to rape and mutilation, and other unspeakable atrocities committed by their sector minders.

Omalokol Nolomaninak was captured and transported to the Wolgos capital city of Skous, where he was subjected to a public show of brutality. The Gwretaido Prawirosn himself undressed and savagely attacked and fed on a living Omalokol in front of a horrified crowd.

After the Annexation, the territory was declared a “zone of enlightenment” and opened to settlement, though it remains underdeveloped. Foreign powers describe it as nothing more than an immense slave camp. Many Wolgos and Shriaav have moved into the area to engage in human meat farming, which is now considered a luxury among Wolgos civilians.

The Bind is a vast empire covering a substantial area in northern Altaia, sharing the Altaian range with Cassia. Its territories span various latitudes, extending from the Northern arctic to the lower limits of the northern region. The majority of the empire's land lies in northern Altaia, but it also maintains minor territorial holdings in Davai and Anaria. In Davai, the Bind controls a small archipelago consisting of a single large island and four uninhabited smaller islands. Its Anarian holdings comprise a single beachhead in what was once the ancient Wolgos homeland. The Bind shares borders with numerous nations, colonies, and unorganized territories inhabited by tribes and chiefdoms. Some of its prominent neighbours and nearby powers include Helreich, Aedeland, and Yan.

The empire covers an impressive 15,041,835 km² square kilometers, illustrating that over 97% of its territory is located in Altaia. The Bind has access to the Stolvic, Arctic, and Shangti oceans. However, its access to the Stolvic ocean is seasonally restricted due to northern ice, while it enjoys continuous and unrestricted access to the Shangti and Arctic oceans. The Shangti ocean plays a vital role in the empire's economy, providing abundant fishing opportunities and facilitating trade. The Bind also boasts various inland lakes, whose waters drain into the Shangti ocean through an extensive hydrological network of rivers. The Nuss River stands out as the most important, meandering through the grasslands and fertile fields of northern Altaia. Efforts are ongoing to improve navigability through dredging tributaries and constructing canals to connect different river drainage basins.

The Bind's Altaian Range Mountains create a generally dry climate but are also home to several glaciers that feed its extensive river networks and support conifer forests and diverse animal species. Among the remarkable features of the Altaian range is the Kworgh canyon in the Cradle region, the largest canyon in Gotha. Its awe-inspiring size and vertical drops draw in tourists from throughout the empire and beyond, and it has become a favored location for young settlers. The range is also a significant source of mineral wealth, providing the empire's resource-hungry economy with various metal ores.

The large latitude range of the empire contributes to a diverse array of climates, further influenced by its unique geographical features. Inland regions experience a generally dry character, especially as the Altaian mountains are reached, while coastal areas near the Shangti ocean enjoy a more humid climate with significant rainfall. The empire, in general, is characterized by savannas, dry fields, and dusty plains, which pose challenges and opportunities for its inhabitants and economy alike.

Altaian range	Northen wastes	The plains of the Nuss	Swamps of the Nuss
Marshes of the Nuss delta	The cradle	New Xedun	Central grasslands
Grasslands	Khinogh fiels	Tropical south	Northen forests
Outer Xedun desert	Lake region	Arctics

The Bind is a complex empire, comprising several states, territories, and kingdoms, each operating as semi-autonomous provinces with their own local governments and divinator branches. However, all of them are subject to the central authority of the Hlrike and divinator guild, which wield significant power and influence over the entire empire.

States are governed by a council of local Hlrike and appointed citizens, allowing for a degree of representation and shared decision-making. Kingdoms, on the other hand, are ruled by their respective chiefs, and they may have further subdivisions for lords and dukes, creating a hierarchical structure within the kingdom's governance. Both states and kingdoms enjoy a level of autonomy, but they ultimately answer to the central authority.

The Bind also designates certain areas as territories or enlightenment zones, where Wolgos settlement is in progress. These territories are directly ruled by the military due to overwhelming non-Wolgos population or poorly developed infrastructure. The military's direct control ensures efficient management during the early stages of expansion. Once these territories are considered enlightened and sufficiently developed, they can convert into states or kingdoms, depending on the local political dynamics and population composition.

In total, there are 101 major administrative divisions within the Bind, consisting of states, territories, and kingdoms. Each division plays a crucial role in the empire's governance, contributing to its overall stability and prosperity. The interplay between the central authority of the Hlrike and divinator guild and the semi-autonomous governance of the states and kingdoms creates a delicate balance of power within the empire.

The Old Colony States, a collection of historic territories, once constituted the renowned New Xedun region of the Dhownolgos empire. These lands held a significant place in Wolgos history, forming the cradle of their civilization in Altaia. Among them, the Refuge Bay States stood as the oldest Wolgos settlements on these distant shores, adorned with the charm of bygone eras. In the shadow of ancient traditions and the echoes of the past, the Refuge Bay States housed some of the most developed and illustrious cities of the Wolgos people.

Stretching beyond the Refuge Bay States, the bordering territories were a testament to the Wolgos' resilience and their tenacious spirit to expand beyond their ancestral lands. In the wake of the Dhownolgos' fall, these states emerged as new settlements, witnessing the Wolgos' unwavering drive to extend their reach into the fertile lands of Nuss and the Lake region.

Throughout these lands, the Wolgos predominated, their culture and identity deeply woven into the fabric of the states. Only along the banks of the Nuss River did a unique blend of demographics emerge, where the Ak’lam and Wolgos populations were almost equal in number. As the Wolgos people ventured forth, they carried the legacy of their past with them, breathing life into new territories.

The states in this region were sparsely populated and dry in climate but are the Binds mineral cornucopia with vast reserves of metal ores and gems, there was some tourism activity due to the impressive canyons and Young ones population. The region was settled by prospectors and Young ones settlement program.

The region is still Gotha’s largest Emerald and ruby producing region, in the bind both stones were popular with specific genders as red is traditionally a male colour due to its association with blood and green is the traditional female colour. Rich Wolgos males boasted Altaian rubies and females Altaian emeralds.

The Union Range States, remnants of a bygone era, were once thriving regions primarily dominated by the Shriaav people. In the distant past, under the Kamuran Empire's influence, the Shriaav colonized these lands, establishing well-developed territories with grand metropolises and flourishing industries within the Bind. The allure of their combined Shriaav and Wolgos character and culture made the Union Range States unique in their amalgamation.

These states bore the mark of their historical significance, where the ancient legacy of the Shriaav and Wolgos melded into a tapestry of traditions and customs. The cities stood as proud beacons of the past's grandeur, reflecting the prosperity and cultural richness they once held. Amidst their bustling streets and soaring structures, echoes of a bygone era whispered in every corner.

The Wolgos New Kingdoms, originally the outer frontier of the New Xedun colony, emerged during the times of the Dhonowlgos monastic state. This region was settled by the old Dukes of Dhonowlgos, who were granted the prestigious title of “kings” in exchange for relinquishing their homeland possessions. As the new kings took control, they established subnational kingdoms according to their desires and, with the support of their loyal followers and employees, began to develop the region.

The Wolgos New Kingdoms was characterized by a fascinating blend of archaic cultures and traditions, deeply rooted in their orthodox faith. The region exhibited a distinct feudal characteristics, placing immense importance on titles and lineage, which have been significantly influenced by the region's bison ranching activities.

The local economy revolved around a mix of commerce, mining, and fertile, temperate hill regions that are renowned for their specialization in producing Anarian-like wines. The New Kingdoms had developed a rich and diverse economy, with a focus on local trade and the exploitation of valuable mineral resources.

Nestled amidst its once lush vegetation, blessed with a tropical climate, and graced by a warm coastline, this region was once a land of abundant possibilities and burgeoning growth. In the days of old, it enriched the Bind with the bounty of its numerous plantations and flourishing fisheries, offering a wide variety of tropical fruits, delectable chocolate, and exotic tropical fish. Among its former glories, the region gained renown as the esteemed producer of the Holy Fruit, fondly known as bananas, often symbolizing the spirit of local enterprises.

In a time when travel was slower and yet a sense of adventure filled the air, the region witnessed the emergence of a thriving tourism industry, drawing wanderers from distant northern territories who embarked on arduous week-long journeys to witness the splendor of its vast white sandy beaches and immerse themselves in the burgeoning beach culture.

The Wolgos of this land, known as the Red Skins for their sun-kissed complexion, roamed these landscapes, using a deep crimson cream to shield against the rays of the tropical sun, embodying a connection to the land and its bountiful offerings. The Ak'lam were the dominant demographic, but a growing Wolgos population, representing around 15 percent, gradually shaped coastal settlements, infusing the region with their unique culture and traditions, as they, too, joined hands in the pursuit of prosperity.

In those bygone days, the region's economy revolved around the cultivation of tropical fruit plantations and the art of chocolate production. “Xholate” island was a testament to their labor, where expansive chocolate plantations meticulously processed cocoa for various delights, from delectable candy to rich drinking chocolate, infused with the spices preferred by the Ak'lam in their ancient traditions.

Prawn and tropical fishing were a way of life, their abundant catches in high demand across the northern territories, a thriving testament to the region's historical prosperity and allure. As time passed, the landscape and fortunes of this once-vibrant land shifted, leaving behind a legacy of its flourishing past, and a hint of nostalgia for the world of old.

These Territories, still in their nascent stages of development, had yet to meet the settlement criteria required to ascend to statehood within the Bind. As such, they remained under the direct administration of the Hlrike, without the oversight of a Broch's administrative branch. Once the heartland of the old Ak'lomanalan revolutionary republic, these states harbored lingering echoes of resistance to Wolgos subjugation. However, lacking an organized force, the native population relied on sporadic acts of defiance in their struggle.

The states had seen a rapid development of a chilling trade, delving into the inhumane practice of human ranching. Live and processed human livestock were shipped in increasing numbers to the northern territories, leading to the unsettling affordability of human meat. As a result, many Wolgos and Shriaav citizens used to partake in this gruesome fare. Alongside this dark commerce, other commercial ventures thrived, catering to the needs of the defense line along The border with Morgenreich. From the growing town of Ghaiathe, a hub for gambling and red-light services emerged, providing entertainment for those stationed along the frontier.

The Ak'lam natives continued to dominate the demographics. A burgeoning influx of Shriaav settlers from crowded cities in the eastern regions were drawn to the ample opportunities in human ranching. Similarly, the Wolgos numbers increased, as many established homesteads and frontier businesses, driven by the allure of these emerging lands.

The Wolgos Empire operates as a unified entity, but it is formed of three distinct components, each under the command of the dominant force known as the Hlrike Command. The Hlrike Command is headed by the Endowed Father, Whrosklow Ghruxhuor, who acts as the head of state and wields supreme power over the empire. The other two entities are the Guild of Divinators and The Preachers. The Guild of Divinators is a highly influential think tank composed of experts in social, economic, and statistical sciences. Although primarily tasked with collecting and processing intelligence to guide the economy and state affairs, the Guild possesses covert powers through secret service agents and police. The Preachers, on the other hand, direct the empire's matters of faith, and they also oversee compulsory education, some research, higher education agencies, and social provisions.

The Hlrike Command, led by the Endowed Father, comprises all the knights and brochs of the Wolgos military. It follows a strict militaristic hierarchy, and the Endowed Father is elected from the most prominent and capable knights within the Hlrike echelons, effectively serving as a dictator. Prominent knights are appointed as overseers of different functions in the empire, granting them significant power and the ability to veto decisions that challenge the Hlrike's hold on power. The rest of the hierarchy manages the armed forces and civilian militia.

The Guild of Divinators operates as a vital administrative organization, functioning as a meritocratic think tank. It predicts trends and offers guidelines and recommendations for the entire Wolgos empire, including the Hlrike. Comprising experts in various fields, the Guild collects and analyzes data to strategize for the welfare and continuity of the Wolgos people. Although its purpose is academic, the Guild has evolved to manipulate trends, occasionally using questionable methods to achieve its goals. It holds considerable influence and is respected yet feared by some due to its unseen manipulation of events. The Guild has taken over the role of the state's main intelligence agency and secret police, but it faces resistance from the Hlrike, who have their own counterintelligence force to neutralize unwanted Guild influence. Additionally, the Guild is limited in obtaining raw materials and resources, being dependent on the Hlrike for such necessities.

The Preachers are a group formed from reformed monks who submitted to the authority of the Hlrike. They adapted their practices to align with the Hlrike's vision and were granted the right to marry and continue influencing religion. The Preachers aim to erode old orthodox beliefs, spread the Hlrike's vision for the Wolgos, and serve as educators throughout the empire. They have also taken over various judicial duties.

The State Hall Congress consists of brochs that function as forts, academies, and barracks for the Hlrike. They have a separate administrative branch for collecting taxes, statistics, and managing local services and civic works. Principalities, on the other hand, were established to promote colonization in Altaia by elevating dukes to princes, granting them large stretches of land in exchange for their lands and wealth. Principalities, though subject to the Hlrike's dictatorship, operate with considerable independence, following traditional laws as long as they don't interfere with the dictatorship. They are local administrative bodies and hold no significant political or foreign policy influence. Princes, however, possess social clout and wealth, although their influence is limited compared to the State Hall Congress and the Hlrike Command.

• Main article: Economy of the Bind

The Wolgos Empire boasted a highly advanced and diversified manufacturing and consumer economy, primarily driven by internal production and consumption. With a strong emphasis on self-sufficiency, foreign trade plays a minor role in the empire's overall gross domestic product. This robust economy operated under a mixed system, where both the private sector and the Guild of Divinators played crucial roles in directing and regulating economic activities.

In the private sector, businesses and consumers thrived in an environment free from heavy taxation, fostering growth and innovation. The consumer demand served as a critical driving force, stimulating entrepreneurship and market expansion within the empire.

On the other hand, the Guild of Divinators employed a more passive approach to steer the economy. By offering subsidies and providing industrial guidance, they influenced the direction of various economic sectors. Additionally, the Guild occasionally established its own industries, which were eventually privatized after their inception.

This mixed economy model ensured a dynamic and resilient economic landscape for the Wolgos Empire, with the private sector and the Guild of Divinators working in tandem to foster growth, development, and stability. Through their collaborative efforts, the empire remained largely self-sufficient and well-equipped to meet the needs of its people and maintain economic prosperity.

In the past, the Bind was a diverse land, home to a varied number of ethnic groups descended from various origins. The empire's population was a mix of different cultures and traditions, with each ethnicity contributing to the unique fabric of the Bind. Among the ethnic groups, the Wolgos stood out as one of Gotha's only remaining human subspecies and held significant dominance over the other Bind ethnicities. They were responsible for transplanting many others into Altaia, shaping the demographic landscape of the empire.

The Ak’lam cultures were the original inhabitants of the Bind lands and formed the most numerous ethnic group at one time. However, due to the policies imposed by the Bind, their numbers had been decreasing over time. The empire had put caps on their birth rate, limiting their ability to grow naturally. Moreover, the Ak’lam received limited medical attention, and the food supply provided to them was inadequate, further contributing to their decline. Additionally, the Bind hunted down “Feral” Ak’lam, leading to further reductions in their population.

The Wolgos were the second-largest ethnic group in the past, comprising around 30% of the Bind's population. Their population growth rate was the fastest among all ethnic groups, primarily due to various policies designed to encourage their reproduction. The Bind actively encouraged the growth of the Wolgos population, and as a result, their growth rate remained at around 3% per year.

The Shriaav were the third most populous ethnic group in the past, along with various other minority groups. Unlike the Ak’lam, the Shriaav and some other minorities had an unregulated growth rate, as they were not seen as a threat by the dominant Wolgos population.

The Eokoeser made up around 10% of the Bind's population, and unlike the Ak’lam, they were increasing in number. Despite being a minority group, the Eokoeser experienced a growth trend, which set them apart from the declining Ak’lam population.

• Main article: Dlroch'veldr

Healthcare within the Bind was provided free and universally to all Wolgos. Additionally, free veterinary care was offered to all other races, but the quality and resources allocated to each race vary. The primary organization responsible for providing healthcare was known as “The Sisters,” which was created and modelled after the Hlrike, a religious organization for women who desired to remain unmarried and to dedicate themselves to their faith. The Sisters main duty was to care for fellow Wolgos and protected creatures. They received training in nursing, medicine, and psychology and had gained a trusted position in society, although some viewed them with suspicion due to their independence from male influence and companionship.

The Wolgos population is heavily affected by skin malignancies, with almost sixty percent of individuals having some form of skin malignancy. However, these skin cancers in Wolgos are typically passive, rarely invasive, but may occasionally require surgery to prevent deformations.

Education in the Bind is diverse and varies depending on individual nature, heritage, and skills. While the majority of Wolgos and Shriaav follow the basic education regime evolved from ancient schooling systems, some pursue other paths. Compulsory schooling usually starts at age six for boys and fourteen for girls and includes both academic and physical education. Core education focuses on religious education, literacy, numeracy, and physical prowess and skill training to prepare children for adult life.

After compulsory schooling, children may join vocational or professional guilds of their interest for further training. However, certain fields, such as medicine, are more restricted due to the monopolization of certain areas by The Sisters and Divinator academies.

Science in the Bind is particularly focused on military engineering and biological sciences. The Sisters lead research in biological sciences, with a keen interest in understanding the differences between Wolgos and humans. They use research subjects to test various theories and have made advancements in medical treatments and surgery techniques. The Sisters also study other peoples in the Bind, experimenting with selective breeding to transform certain populations into Wolgos-like individuals.

The Guild of Divinators is involved in developing technology in conjunction with the Hlrike workshops and The Sisters. They collaborate on pharmaceutical, chemical, and mechanical technology, including telegraph/phone systems and weapons for civilian and military purposes.

• Main article: Dlroch'veldr

The Wolgos faith is a monotheistic belief system that has been practiced for several thousand years exclusively by the Wolgos people. This faith is unique to the Wolgos and holds various elements that distinguish them from the rest of humanity. The religious teachings emphasize that only the Wolgos are favored and chosen by the deity for salvation, thereby denouncing and excluding non-Wolgos individuals from its divine favor. Central to the Wolgos faith is the worship of their deity known as Dlrocha. Dlrocha is considered a vengeful god who embodies both creation and chaos. This dual nature of the deity represents the intricate balance between order and disorder, and it is believed that Dlrocha has the power to both create and destroy.

Within the diverse and multicultural society of the Bind, the Wolgos faith of Dlroch'veldr is not the only belief system that existed. The spiritual and religious landscape of the empire was rich and varied, accommodating a multitude of faiths, denominations, and animistic beliefs. One of the prominent belief systems alongside Dlroch'veldr was the Shuocian faith. There were likely numerous other spiritual practices, local traditions, and animistic beliefs followed by various communities across the vast territory of the Bind.

• Main article: Culture of the Wolgos

Since the inception of the Bind and the destruction of the ominous control of the Wholreada on culture, religion, and economy, the Wolgos culture flourished and diversified as a result of greater freedom of expression, expansion over the vast territories of the Bind, and contact with exotic cultures. The vastness of the Bind in the past created regions where isolation from regular contact with broader Wolgos culture led to cultural and artistic mutation.

The once remote regions contrasted culturally with the old New Xedun colony regions. Some cultures became tied to their environment and mutated to match it as a point of cultural reference, while others adopted old societal systems and fit them within the framework of the Bind. Still, others adapted and created novel ways of living.

A notable example of Wolgos cultural evolution was the eastern coast and eastern Nuss region, where Wolgos culture mingled with Davaian Shriaav culture and absorbed many of its artistic and culinary aspects, influencing Wolgos culture more than Davaian culture. In contrast, the southeastern mountains and hill regions, settled by ancient feudal families and their subjects, sought to recreate the grandiosity with which they once ruled millennia ago. They carved out numerous kingdoms and princedoms that followed a feudal code of law and regally oriented culture while adapting their local governments to fit into the political framework of the Bind.

The southern prosperity states, although ruled by the preferred administrative formula of the Bind, exhibited an even more extreme shift in culture. They redefined Wolgos religious dogma and traditions, expressing their aggression differently, and giving the impression of being more pacifist and laidback. The region also saw the subtle adoption of Ak'lam and native art and culture into Wolgos culture and infrequently even the integration of Ak'lam into civil society. The southern states often saw cultural clashes between the old colonists and the new migrants from the north.

The culture of the Bind varied greatly between rural and cosmopolitan areas. Cosmopolitan areas, such as Capsular, often saw a mixture of all permutations of Wolgos culture. Lotus Island, a small city but densely populated enclave of the Bind in Davai, had a completely different Davai culture and ethnicity than the Bind Shriaav. The wealth of the island attracted many Wolgos and immigrants from Davai, creating a melange of culture and refinement.

Subcultures were an important feature of Wolgos society. These were cultures that developed within organizations or like-minded individuals and often had a completely different outlook and motivation compared to wider Wolgos culture.

The Ak'lam culture had been severely eroded for most ak’lam living as slaves, transformed into a fragmentary mix of their original culture, reactionary counter Wolgos culture, and even the adoption of some Wolgos aesthetics. To the Wolgos, the ak’lam and their culture were considered irrelevant, and the Wolgos curtailed their cultural and personal expression. The environment in which they lived was restrictive and inhibited their cultural development and transmission.

The ak’lam languages never had a writing system, and the Wolgos had not created one, so there were no publications in their languages. As a result, most ak’lam were forced to learn some rudimentary Wolgos to avoid alternative forms of communication that involved being beaten until they guessed the orders given by the Wolgos. Alternatively, the Wolgos used explicit simple pictures as signs to inform the ak’lam.

Visual arts and music in enslaved ak’lam communities were almost non-existent and dangerous to create. The existing music was all vocal and involved humming or old folk songs that had managed to survive the decades of enslavement or being born in captivity. Those born in captivity usually learned more about their culture and vocal singing tradition after they met older ak’lam, as they were deprived of much social interaction and disciplined until they became broken, docile, dim-witted, and ignorant. They were said to be undergoing the same process that elkoesr underwent millennia ago, but at an accelerated pace. It was likely that, in the future, they would become a shell with no substance or creativity, much like the elkoesr.

Outside the Nuss region and the old puppet ak’lam republic regions, there were many ak’lam referred to as “wild.” Although under the direct control of the Bind and often monitored by meal troopers, they were more independent and freer to express themselves in their villages and homes. Their villages often endured random, senseless raids and destruction even when harvest quotas had been met, so they were usually composed of simple huts made out of mud and straw, which made them easy to rebuild. They often painted their huts with ochre and soot as decoration, featuring geometric patterns and sometimes simple drawings.

Wild ak’lam were not possession hoarders like other cultures and preferred to keep only what was essential and special to them. Although they sometimes scavenged around Wolgos settlements and rubbish pits for metal and useful objects, they would bury or hide special items and backups, such as blankets and pots, some distance from their villages to prevent the Wolgos meal troops from stealing their meagre possessions during raids or when collecting harvest quotas.

The free Shriaav in the Bind were technically considered free, but their freedom was restricted to certain states where they were more or less safe from the regular mistreatment that non-Wolgos received. However, they still found themselves in a position where they were often considered second-class citizens compared to the Wolgos. They generally had lower economic status than the Wolgos but were free to form enterprises and accumulate wealth if possible. Some of them even managed to gain significant influence and clout in their respective states.

Culturally, the free Shriaav bore resentment towards the Wolgos but also tried to emulate and assimilate Wolgos ways and aesthetics as a means of integrating further into society. Many of them even embraced the Wolgos faith, including themselves as part of the chosen people. Growing up in the Wolgos-dominated environment, free Shriaav men almost naturally developed behaviors and characteristics similar to the Wolgos, although they still faced the constraints of human instincts, such as heightened senses of fear, remorse, and guilt.

The Shriaav transformed their traditional extended family structure to emulate the Wolgos pack and clan system but with even stronger blood ties. Women in Shriaav society received treatment comparable to that of Wolgos women and were solely responsible for the upbringing of children. They were also expected to have given birth to dowry children before marriage. Unlike the Wolgos, they didn't feel naturally threatened or antagonistic towards other humans, but they did partake in Wolgos traditions and even engaged in cannibalism when possible. Some of the wealthiest Shriaav even created states to hunt other humans as a way to gain status in the upper echelons of Wolgos society.

In terms of aesthetics, the Shriaav chose to fuse their own artistic traditions with Wolgos traditions, and the resulting product was well-received by the Wolgos. Their influence spread throughout the western and southern Bind, with many houses and buildings incorporating Shriaav-inspired designs. Additionally, cuisine in these regions adopted the Shriaav's use of rich sauces and rice.

Indentured Shriaav, on the other hand, were more reactionary to Wolgos culture and managed to preserve much of their Kamuran roots. Despite this, they also adapted to incorporate some Wolgos art forms and ideas into their culture. Indentured Shriaav, however, led a very restricted existence and could not fully express their culture. They usually lived at the whims of their masters, whether Wolgos or other Shriaav. Shriaav owned by Shriaav masters experienced a more stable life and enjoyed lesser cultural and social restrictions. They often lived as a family unit, serving their masters, and could enjoy some simple pleasures of life, unlike those owned by Wolgos.