Name of Nation: The Kingdom of Ravensgard Government: Absolute Monarchy Economy: Mostly trade-based, with some mining in the Wildlands to the east, and agriculture to the south. Far to the east, there is mostly unexplored tundra for thousands of miles until the ocean on the other side. In the Wildlands, there is a stockpile of gold and gems that is rivaled by no other nation on the continent. To the south, the primary industry is agriculture. Crops include wheat, and barley Military: The Ravesnsgardian Guard is a major force in keeping the peace both within Ravensgard, and in its colonies in the north, along the polar ocean. The armies are tens of thousands strong, including the famed Raven Guard shock troops. There have been whispers about the Raven Guard, saying that these are not mere mortals, but something more. However, the bulk of the Guard is built of [expendable] troops, but these are no less effective. The Ravensgardian Navy is much smaller than their army, numbering 3 score ships, but its crew are trained to sacrifice their lives for each other, if need be. Also, the crew build the ships themselves, thus ensuring those onboard do not abandon ship. Description of Culture: Ravensgardian Culture is built upon the individual. This individualistic nation is surprisingly tolerant of minorities and foreigners. Among the noble families, arranged marriages are almost unheard of, due to the first decree of its king, Ivan IV. The merchants virtually rule Ravensgard, with their congress's leader the king's personal mercantile adviser. Only the military adviser is more trusted. History: Ever since the Norian Empire fell, the Fromansgard dynasty has ruled. Ivan Fromansgard I was a knight who fought for the people of this country to free them from the Hans. Ivan I enjoyed a long life filled with prosperity after he died, Ivan II took up the throne. Like his father, he had a period of prosperity, but a relatively short life, Ivan III went insane over his rein, until he was killed by one of his brother's assassins. Then Ivan IV took the throne, and Ravensgard has flourished ever since. It was under Ivan IV who started the project to physically enhance humans through harsh training. This project created the Raven Guard shock troops. Territory: Make my claim from the peninsula in the north to Hypnosia in the south. Other: the people of the country are very proud of their ruler, Ivan IV. However, they have always wondered what happened to Ivan III, who disappeared one day, and never came back. If the populace ever found out that Ivan III was murdered by an assassin employed by their king, there could be civil war!