Setting and Plot

Part One: The North Wind

Manthir is an old, but small kingdom, nestled in a long strip of land and rivers that flow to the coast. Currently, it is locked in a border dispute with a community of outcasts and rebels who are desperate to claim a corner of the kingdom's fertile land for their own. War has not yet officially been declared, but there have been many Lutrian raids unanswered and the people of Manthir both hope and fear a royal decree.

World weary and battle hardened, King Harlan Rost of Manthir has led a reign of conflict, war, and prosperity for Manthir. He might no longer be capable of leading troops into battle, but he is still a competent leader. He is determined to ensure his son's legacy and will do anything to protect his family and the kingdom. Some hate the old monarch, some love him, and this is especially true of his own legitimate and illegitimate blood lines. Despite his letter to the Taknieri Emperor going unanswered, the kingdom stands on the edge of another war.

The Prince of Manthir is a budding military leader for the nation, just beginning to come into his own. He is currently engaged and due to be married this winter. His sisters each have their own goals when it comes to the throne.

The Taknieri Empire, Manthir's massive neighbor to the east, is reportedly their ally, but has yet to commit any aid to their sister nation. Some rumors leaving the country suggest the emperor is not of sound mind. Just a year ago, two of his many sons died, one of which was his heir. As the superpower's ailing emperor drifts further and further from reality and refuses to declare a new heir, the empire's fate is uncertain. Any who speak up against him are being exiled, many of which have joined Manthir as soldiers to help defend their borders.