https://stoneshard.com/wiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Rhapsody 2026-04-04T15:15:13Z User contributions MediaWiki 1.45.1 https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Beverages&diff=74027 2025-11-18T20:09:15Z

<p>Rhapsody: </p> <hr /> <div>''Glo glo!'' Most beverages lower your [[Hunger, Thirst &amp; Intoxication|Thirst]], and all of them come with other effects. Milk is the only beverage that also lowers your [[Hunger, Thirst &amp; Intoxication|Hunger]].<br /> <br /> This page does not include [[Potions]].<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> === Water ===<br /> The most important Beverage is '''water'''. Water is freely available from the town's wells, so remember where the well is and don't forget to refill your Waterskin each time you're back in town. There is well present on each tile of [[Brynn]], and additionally in certain [[Points of Interest]] like the [[Witch's Hut]] or at the Winery beside Mannshire. <br /> <br /> &lt;gallery&gt;<br /> Osbrook Well Location.png|Osbrook Well<br /> Mannshire Well Location.png|Mannshire Well<br /> Witch's Hut Well Location.png|Witch's Hut Well<br /> &lt;/gallery&gt;<br /> <br /> === Alcohol ===<br /> {{Quote|* Vinum bonum cum sapore<br /> * Bibit abbas cum priore|Drinkers Mass}}<br /> Unless you're friar Tuck, chances are you won't be carrying tons of alcoholic beverages around, so your waterskin will be your main source for drinking. Some beverages are alcoholic and using them will raise your [[Hunger, Thirst &amp; Intoxication|Intoxication]], but drinking alcoholic beverages might help alleviate [[Injuries &amp; Pain|Pain]] or raise [[Morale]]. Drinking alcohol also makes you [[Drunk]], which obviously is where the real fun is.<br /> <br /> <br /> [[File:drunk_adventurer.png]]<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Compared to water, the main difference is that alcohol actually costs money. Luckily, bandits like booze too, so you can usually find Mead or other beverages in their hideouts. The innkeeper and his assistants are the best option for selling alcohol you bring back from dungeons and enemies.<br /> <br /> === List of all beverages ===<br /> {{ConsumableTable/head|subcategory=yes|freshness=yes}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Waterskin}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Elven Mud}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Mannshire Fortified}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Brynn Vermouth}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Elven Ice Wine}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Spirit}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Abasa}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Brandy}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Dark Ale}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Mead}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Jug of Milk}}<br /> {{ConsumableTable/row|Ranger Brew}}<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Note: For the [[Achievements|achievement]] ''Drink and Be Merry'', which has you drink all types of alcohol, you must drink the seven over-the-counter alcoholic drinks as well as [[Abasa]].<br /> <br /> {{Template:Navigation||plain}}<br /> [[Category:Beverages|*]]<br /> [[Category:Consumables]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Nistra&diff=73247 2025-09-20T20:00:02Z

<p>Rhapsody: </p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Leosthenes.png|right|Leosthenes was trained to be Agemon.]]<br /> {{quote|Nistra is the last surviving fragment of Axonia, the great empire of old. The mountainous realm is home to many peoples, all ruled with iron fist by the Great Despot.}}<br /> [[Nistra|Nistrian Despotate]] is a dominantly [[human]] country located at the west end of [[the Continent]], most notable for being successor state to the old [[Axonia]]n empire and for making war with [[Aldor]] numerous times in the past.<br /> <br /> == Geography and economy ==<br /> Nistra is bordered by the [[Fjall]] clans up north and [[Aldor]] to the east, and by the sea in the south and west. Nistra is described as mountainous place, especially in the northern region bordering Fjall. The long and winding coastline in the south and west has made Nistra one of the great nations of seafarers and traders. The east part of Nistra that borders Aldor is the place where skirmishes as well as great wars were fought between the two nations, sometimes for decades or even longer. <br /> <br /> During the recent civil war in Aldor, some of Nistrian traders have been able to make their business in [[Brynn]]. As of late, there has been considerable exchange in products, armaments and knowledge between the two rivaling countries. Nistrian merchants typically stock various weapons and shields which Nistra is known for, as well as their their famous [[Nistrian Flame Flask|bottled incendiary weapon]], but also textile products made of [[Bolt of Cloth|linen]] and [[Spool of Thread|wool]]. In return, their exports from Aldor, and further, include timber and local agricultural products like grain and wine. <br /> <br /> The singular [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through almost all of the Nistrian coastal cities, including one of the settlements on an island off the south-west coast of the country. The status of trade by land is presently unknown but speculated to be disturbed by the civil war of Aldor and persisting raids from Fjall, making naval connection something of a lifeline for the country.<br /> <br /> == Government and religion ==<br /> As the full name of the nation implies, the monarch of Nistra is a single person titled as The Great Despot. From his seat of residence and governance in the capital city of '''Hieropolis''', he rules the country with iron fist and strict tradition. Anyone who dares defy The Great Despot is usually executed on the spot or thrown into dungeons for fate more brutal than death. These and other traditions of the Despotate are nurtured to preserve their lineage as the last and the true successor of the ancient Axonian Empire. <br /> <br /> However, the various Nistrian peoples practice more than one Path to worship the [[Host]]. The teachings of Nistrian Hieronism, called the Path of Tradition, hearken back to the Axonian era and are maintained through the coastal lands as well as eastern reaches of the country. In addition, Gnostic Hieronosm, which is most widely practiced in Aldor, has taken root in the central regions of the country, while the Chervenians people that have ties with the distant land of [[Skadia]] maintain Northern Hieronism, or Path of Stoicism, mostly in the north-west part of the country.<br /> <br /> == History and culture ==<br /> Nistra has long history hailing back to the era of the ancient Axonian Empire. This is seen in every aspect of their life, attempting to preserve their Axonian heritage. From the government policy to their way to worshipping the Host, to their armaments, strategy of war, and their cuisines, every detail is kept as similar as possible with the practices of the ancient empire. This preservation of tradition should be seen not only as as a means to maintaing their cultural heritage, but also as a status symbol as the true successor of the Axonian empire. After many conflicts, both Aldor and Nistra have recognized and sometimes adopted their respective characteristics and advances for their own use.<br /> <br /> Rather typically for an absolute ruler, the Great Despot is also known as a patron of their people. Every year the monarch ensures a military parade across their capital city to show the might of Nistrian military for the common people. <br /> <br /> Relatively few unique articles of Nistrian cuisine are widely distinguished in Aldor. Some better known examples include their traditional [[Nistrian Condiments|condiments]] which Axonian philosophers have mentioned in their writings and the more recently developed [[Custard Muffin]]s.<br /> <br /> ===Council of Peoples===<br /> Although ruled by absolutism and great focus on tradition, most people in Nistra belong to the four major tribes who all have their own languages, customs and way of life that warrant them their own individual rights and privileges (or the lack thereof), which are granted to them by what is known as the Council of Peoples.<br /> <br /> The most numerous people are the '''Chervenians'''. Their language is reminiscent of that of [[Skadia]]ns, although their temperaments are more mild and joyful. The majority of Chervenians are peasants and farmers. There are few of them among the upper society, with any who rise to nobility having to compete against the extended privileges of the other ethnicities. The second most numerous people, '''Marrs''', have close resemblance with Chervenians, and are found in majority along the southern coastline and especially the port cities. Marrs are relieved of numerous taxes and fees, so many become merchants or craftsmen. The third group, '''Zeineshes''', hail from ancient nomads who inhabited the local plains. They form the bulk of the Great Despot's cavalry, but other than skill at arms and the unique language they speak, they are hardly distinguishable from the other Nistrians. Finally, there are the most direct descendants of ancient Axonians, the '''Ksifits'''. A large portion of the nobility, city magistrates, high clergy, and even the Great Despot himself come from Ksifit bloodlines. Although this effectively places them as the ruling ethnicity of the realm, the other peoples are also known to continue adoring their clothing with their respective traditional folk patterns to show defiance on the ruling Ksifits minority.<br /> <br /> ==Military and warfare==<br /> Similar on how Nistrian people keeping their culture and way of life strictly following the tradition of Ancient Axonian, their weaponries and warfare are still following the tradition no matter how ancient or how antique they were. To their Great Despot, preserving and replicating centuries-old weapons and armors is a matter of prestige to be perceived as the successor of the Great Axonian Empire. But sometimes out of necessity and numerous conflicts with neighboring Aldor, pushed them to copy others strategy or adapting new strategy towards their rivals.<br /> <br /> Beside antique weaponries, Nistra put maces in high regard and even renowned as noble weapon. Unlike Skadia that create many bludgeons and have deep root of respect toward mace, Nistrian people see maces as the power to defeat Aldorian full-plated knights. There are so many vendors, smiths, and traders showing their unique and powerful mace that can make a dent of the most expensive Aldorian plate armor.<br /> <br /> For defensive, scale armor is still used by many troops in Nistrian army. Dated back when Nistra's influence stretched far to the East with their full-scaled armor cataphracts. With their love in military tradition, [[Scaled Armor|scaled armor]] and [[Scaled Boots|scaled boots]] still a common sight on every Nistrian equipment.<br /> <br /> There are several tactics that shown still effective even for current warfare standard that still practiced by Nistrian army. Some of them are well-known that even praised by their rivals to be studied, adopted, or strategically calculated for their own retaliation tactic.<br /> <br /> * The famous square shield formation. Nistrian military deployed their heavy infantry in square formation armed with their tower shields. This formation help them to protect their first row of infantry but also the archers behind the square formation. Making them impervious to disorganized attack from Fjall raids and intimidate Aldorian commander to charge their heavy cavalry for needless death.<br /> * Skirmishing tactic. Beside the full-plated heavy infantry from Nistra fending off rows of enemies, there are many support from the flanking light cavalry and agile archers/horse archers whittling down enemies from the back or any weak point of enemies' ranks. Trapping enemies to defend themselves from all sides.<br /> * [[Nistrian Flame Flask|Flame Flask]]. The famous yet mysterious Nistrian Flame, created with their secret recipe by the Nistrian alchemists and engineers that not even Aldorian scholars can reproduce. Throwing these bottles of flame can set ablaze even the most armored Aldorian commander or disorganized enemies' rank who tried to avoid both the fire and also the Nistrian infantry advance.<br /> <br /> Nistrian army are famously renown across The Continent because their training regime, their antique weaponries, and also their heavy armored soldiers. There are many elite troops that are personally trained to aid Great Despot's war across the Continent or for personal bodyguards protecting the capital cities. Current troops that Nistra known to recruit are:<br /> <br /> * Agemon or ''Aegemon''. The elite guardsmen of The Great Despot himself. Picked from young age across the country to be trained in Gymnasium with harsh and cruel training regime not only for building their physical prowess, but also their martial and magic arts to become the perfect bodyguard. Usually armed with heavy polehammer or [[Nistrian Polemace|two-handed mace]] and adequate magical knowledge of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]], Agemons are the heavy hitting infantry that not only good at protecting Nistrian Despotate, but also dealing heavy damage to whoever dares to defy their Despot.<br /> * Cataphract. Heavy cavalry armed with armor from the rider to the hooves of their horses. The rider adored with countless shiny [[Scaled Armor|scales of armor]] and armed with hefty [[Flanged Mace|flanged mace]]. Cataphract will charge in wegde formation with their heavy armored mount like battering ram that even break pikemen formation. After the brutal trample from their charge, the rider will finish whoever survive the initial charge with their heavy maces. <br /> * Nistrian Heavy Infantry. Nistrian military really believe in the strength of their infantrymen. This showed with many of their infantry ranks are geared with scaled armor and protection such as [[Nistrian Shield|Nistrian shield]] to protect themselves and their back ranks that usually filled with light infantry or archers.<br /> * Skirmish Light Cavalry. Beside their heavy cavalry of cataphract, Nistra also use many light cavalry to harass enemies backline or flank infantry that are preoccupied by their sturdy heavy infantry. Usually armed with [[Skirmisher Shield|shield]] to protect them from stray arrows.<br /> * Skirmish Light Infantry. Nistrian military also deployed light infantry. Most notably their light infantry consist of archers that raining arrow from the back line, or maneuvering across the battlefield to whitling down enemies numbers.<br /> * Geomancer Mage. Even though Agemon or other high commander in Nistra learn some magic of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]] to bolster their defense, there are also many powerful geomancers deployed to cast runic boulder or earthquake to shatter walls, buildings, or human alike just like when Nistrian besieged the city of [[Aldwynn]].<br /> *Varangs. Nistra just like their rival Aldor, bulk their military ranks with mercenary or anyone who put a price for their service. This mercenary can be from their Northern brigands, or the famous Varangs mercenary from Fjall clans. From decades of hiring Varangs, Nistrian military learn the usefulness of [[Nistrian Bardiche|bardiches]] that the Varangs brought from [[Skadia]].<br /> <br /> == Trivia ==<br /> <br /> * Nistra inspired heavily with the history of Byzantine Empire which how they proclaimed themselves as the successor of Axonian Empire which might be referenced Roman Empire.<br /> * The many people in Nistra also transpired from Byzantine diverse ethnicity which at some point also include Slavs, Armenian, Syria, Southern Italy, Anatolia, and many more.<br /> * Their box formation referenced Roman Empire testudo formation and square formation.<br /> <br /> == Notable Nistrians NPC/Character ==<br /> <br /> * [[Leosthenes]]<br /> * [[Rigo Nevic]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Nistra&diff=73246 2025-09-20T19:59:16Z

<p>Rhapsody: </p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Leosthenes.png|right|Leosthenes was trained to be Agemon.]]<br /> {{quote|Nistra is the last surviving fragment of Axonia, the great empire of old. The mountainous realm is home to many peoples, all ruled with iron fist by the Great Despot.}}<br /> [[Nistra|Nistrian Despotate]] is a dominantly [[human]] country located at the west end of [[the Continent]], most notable for being successor state to the old [[Axonia]]n empire and for making war with [[Aldor]] numerous times in the past.<br /> <br /> == Geography and Economy ==<br /> Nistra is bordered by the [[Fjall]] clans up north and [[Aldor]] to the east, and by the sea in the south and west. Nistra is described as mountainous place, especially in the northern region bordering Fjall. The long and winding coastline in the south and west has made Nistra one of the great nations of seafarers and traders. The east part of Nistra that borders Aldor is the place where skirmishes as well as great wars were fought between the two nations, sometimes for decades or even longer. <br /> <br /> During the recent civil war in Aldor, some of Nistrian traders have been able to make their business in [[Brynn]]. As of late, there has been considerable exchange in products, armaments and knowledge between the two rivaling countries. Nistrian merchants typically stock various weapons and shields which Nistra is known for, as well as their their famous [[Nistrian Flame Flask|bottled incendiary weapon]], but also textile products made of [[Bolt of Cloth|linen]] and [[Spool of Thread|wool]]. In return, their exports from Aldor, and further, include timber and local agricultural products like grain and wine. <br /> <br /> The singular [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through almost all of the Nistrian coastal cities, including one of the settlements on an island off the south-west coast of the country. The status of trade by land is presently unknown but speculated to be disturbed by the civil war of Aldor and persisting raids from Fjall, making naval connection something of a lifeline for the country.<br /> <br /> == Government and religion ==<br /> As the full name of the nation implies, the monarch of Nistra is a single person titled as The Great Despot. From his seat of residence and governance in the capital city of '''Hieropolis''', he rules the country with iron fist and strict tradition. Anyone who dares defy The Great Despot is usually executed on the spot or thrown into dungeons for fate more brutal than death. These and other traditions of the Despotate are nurtured to preserve their lineage as the last and the true successor of the ancient Axonian Empire. <br /> <br /> However, the various Nistrian peoples practice more than one Path to worship the [[Host]]. The teachings of Nistrian Hieronism, called the Path of Tradition, hearken back to the Axonian era and are maintained through the coastal lands as well as eastern reaches of the country. In addition, Gnostic Hieronosm, which is most widely practiced in Aldor, has taken root in the central regions of the country, while the Chervenians people that have ties with the distant land of [[Skadia]] maintain Northern Hieronism, or Path of Stoicism, mostly in the north-west part of the country.<br /> <br /> == History and culture ==<br /> Nistra has long history hailing back to the era of the ancient Axonian Empire. This is seen in every aspect of their life, attempting to preserve their Axonian heritage. From the government policy to their way to worshipping the Host, to their armaments, strategy of war, and their cuisines, every detail is kept as similar as possible with the practices of the ancient empire. This preservation of tradition should be seen not only as as a means to maintaing their cultural heritage, but also as a status symbol as the true successor of the Axonian empire. After many conflicts, both Aldor and Nistra have recognized and sometimes adopted their respective characteristics and advances for their own use.<br /> <br /> Rather typically for an absolute ruler, the Great Despot is also known as a patron of their people. Every year the monarch ensures a military parade across their capital city to show the might of Nistrian military for the common people. <br /> <br /> Relatively few unique articles of Nistrian cuisine are widely distinguished in Aldor. Some better known examples include their traditional [[Nistrian Condiments|condiments]] which Axonian philosophers have mentioned in their writings and the more recently developed [[Custard Muffin]]s.<br /> <br /> ===Council of Peoples===<br /> Although ruled by absolutism and great focus on tradition, most people in Nistra belong to the four major tribes who all have their own languages, customs and way of life that warrant them their own individual rights and privileges (or the lack thereof), which are granted to them by what is known as the Council of Peoples.<br /> <br /> The most numerous people are the '''Chervenians'''. Their language is reminiscent of that of [[Skadia]]ns, although their temperaments are more mild and joyful. The majority of Chervenians are peasants and farmers. There are few of them among the upper society, with any who rise to nobility having to compete against the extended privileges of the other ethnicities. The second most numerous people, '''Marrs''', have close resemblance with Chervenians, and are found in majority along the southern coastline and especially the port cities. Marrs are relieved of numerous taxes and fees, so many become merchants or craftsmen. The third group, '''Zeineshes''', hail from ancient nomads who inhabited the local plains. They form the bulk of the Great Despot's cavalry, but other than skill at arms and the unique language they speak, they are hardly distinguishable from the other Nistrians. Finally, there are the most direct descendants of ancient Axonians, the '''Ksifits'''. A large portion of the nobility, city magistrates, high clergy, and even the Great Despot himself come from Ksifit bloodlines. Although this effectively places them as the ruling ethnicity of the realm, the other peoples are also known to continue adoring their clothing with their respective traditional folk patterns to show defiance on the ruling Ksifits minority.<br /> <br /> ==Military and warfare==<br /> Similar on how Nistrian people keeping their culture and way of life strictly following the tradition of Ancient Axonian, their weaponries and warfare are still following the tradition no matter how ancient or how antique they were. To their Great Despot, preserving and replicating centuries-old weapons and armors is a matter of prestige to be perceived as the successor of the Great Axonian Empire. But sometimes out of necessity and numerous conflicts with neighboring Aldor, pushed them to copy others strategy or adapting new strategy towards their rivals.<br /> <br /> Beside antique weaponries, Nistra put maces in high regard and even renowned as noble weapon. Unlike Skadia that create many bludgeons and have deep root of respect toward mace, Nistrian people see maces as the power to defeat Aldorian full-plated knights. There are so many vendors, smiths, and traders showing their unique and powerful mace that can make a dent of the most expensive Aldorian plate armor.<br /> <br /> For defensive, scale armor is still used by many troops in Nistrian army. Dated back when Nistra's influence stretched far to the East with their full-scaled armor cataphracts. With their love in military tradition, [[Scaled Armor|scaled armor]] and [[Scaled Boots|scaled boots]] still a common sight on every Nistrian equipment.<br /> <br /> There are several tactics that shown still effective even for current warfare standard that still practiced by Nistrian army. Some of them are well-known that even praised by their rivals to be studied, adopted, or strategically calculated for their own retaliation tactic.<br /> <br /> * The famous square shield formation. Nistrian military deployed their heavy infantry in square formation armed with their tower shields. This formation help them to protect their first row of infantry but also the archers behind the square formation. Making them impervious to disorganized attack from Fjall raids and intimidate Aldorian commander to charge their heavy cavalry for needless death.<br /> * Skirmishing tactic. Beside the full-plated heavy infantry from Nistra fending off rows of enemies, there are many support from the flanking light cavalry and agile archers/horse archers whittling down enemies from the back or any weak point of enemies' ranks. Trapping enemies to defend themselves from all sides.<br /> * [[Nistrian Flame Flask|Flame Flask]]. The famous yet mysterious Nistrian Flame, created with their secret recipe by the Nistrian alchemists and engineers that not even Aldorian scholars can reproduce. Throwing these bottles of flame can set ablaze even the most armored Aldorian commander or disorganized enemies' rank who tried to avoid both the fire and also the Nistrian infantry advance.<br /> <br /> Nistrian army are famously renown across The Continent because their training regime, their antique weaponries, and also their heavy armored soldiers. There are many elite troops that are personally trained to aid Great Despot's war across the Continent or for personal bodyguards protecting the capital cities. Current troops that Nistra known to recruit are:<br /> <br /> * Agemon or ''Aegemon''. The elite guardsmen of The Great Despot himself. Picked from young age across the country to be trained in Gymnasium with harsh and cruel training regime not only for building their physical prowess, but also their martial and magic arts to become the perfect bodyguard. Usually armed with heavy polehammer or [[Nistrian Polemace|two-handed mace]] and adequate magical knowledge of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]], Agemons are the heavy hitting infantry that not only good at protecting Nistrian Despotate, but also dealing heavy damage to whoever dares to defy their Despot.<br /> * Cataphract. Heavy cavalry armed with armor from the rider to the hooves of their horses. The rider adored with countless shiny [[Scaled Armor|scales of armor]] and armed with hefty [[Flanged Mace|flanged mace]]. Cataphract will charge in wegde formation with their heavy armored mount like battering ram that even break pikemen formation. After the brutal trample from their charge, the rider will finish whoever survive the initial charge with their heavy maces. <br /> * Nistrian Heavy Infantry. Nistrian military really believe in the strength of their infantrymen. This showed with many of their infantry ranks are geared with scaled armor and protection such as [[Nistrian Shield|Nistrian shield]] to protect themselves and their back ranks that usually filled with light infantry or archers.<br /> * Skirmish Light Cavalry. Beside their heavy cavalry of cataphract, Nistra also use many light cavalry to harass enemies backline or flank infantry that are preoccupied by their sturdy heavy infantry. Usually armed with [[Skirmisher Shield|shield]] to protect them from stray arrows.<br /> * Skirmish Light Infantry. Nistrian military also deployed light infantry. Most notably their light infantry consist of archers that raining arrow from the back line, or maneuvering across the battlefield to whitling down enemies numbers.<br /> * Geomancer Mage. Even though Agemon or other high commander in Nistra learn some magic of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]] to bolster their defense, there are also many powerful geomancers deployed to cast runic boulder or earthquake to shatter walls, buildings, or human alike just like when Nistrian besieged the city of [[Aldwynn]].<br /> *Varangs. Nistra just like their rival Aldor, bulk their military ranks with mercenary or anyone who put a price for their service. This mercenary can be from their Northern brigands, or the famous Varangs mercenary from Fjall clans. From decades of hiring Varangs, Nistrian military learn the usefulness of [[Nistrian Bardiche|bardiches]] that the Varangs brought from [[Skadia]].<br /> <br /> == Trivia ==<br /> <br /> * Nistra inspired heavily with the history of Byzantine Empire which how they proclaimed themselves as the successor of Axonian Empire which might be referenced Roman Empire.<br /> * The many people in Nistra also transpired from Byzantine diverse ethnicity which at some point also include Slavs, Armenian, Syria, Southern Italy, Anatolia, and many more.<br /> * Their box formation referenced Roman Empire testudo formation and square formation.<br /> <br /> == Notable Nistrians NPC/Character ==<br /> <br /> * [[Leosthenes]]<br /> * [[Rigo Nevic]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Nistra&diff=73245 2025-09-20T19:57:38Z

<p>Rhapsody: </p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Leosthenes.png|right|Leosthenes was trained to be Agemon.]]<br /> {{quote|Nistra is the last surviving fragment of Axonia, the great empire of old. The mountainous realm is home to many peoples, all ruled with iron fist by the Great Despot.}}<br /> [[Nistra|Nistrian Despotate]] is a dominantly [[human]] country located at the west end of [[the Continent]], most notable for being successor state to the old [[Axonia]]n empire and for making war with [[Aldor]] numerous times in the past.<br /> <br /> == Geography and Economy ==<br /> Nistra is bordered by the [[Fjall]] clans up north and [[Aldor]] to the east, and by the sea in the south and west. Nistra is described as mountainous place, especially in the northern region bordering Fjall. The long and winding coastline in the south and west has made Nistra one of the great nations of seafarers and traders. The east part of Nistra that borders Aldor is the place where skirmishes as well as great wars were fought between the two nations, sometimes for decades or even longer. <br /> <br /> During the recent civil war in Aldor, some of Nistrian traders have been able to make their business in [[Brynn]]. As of late, there has been considerable exchange in products, armaments and knowledge between the two rivaling countries. Nistrian merchants typically stock various weapons and shields which Nistra is known for, as well as their their famous [[Nistrian Flame Flask|bottled incendiary weapon]], but also textile products made of [[Bolt of Cloth|linen]] and [[Spool of Thread|wool]]. In return, their exports from Aldor, and further, include timber and local agricultural products like grain and wine. <br /> <br /> The singular [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through almost all of the Nistrian coastal cities, including one of the settlements on an island off the south-west coast of the country. The status of trade by land is presently unknown but speculated to be disturbed by the civil war of Aldor and persisting raids from Fjall, making naval connection something of a lifeline for the country.<br /> <br /> == Government and religion ==<br /> As the full name of the nation implies, the monarch of Nistra is a single person titled as The Great Despot. From his seat of residence and governance in the capital city of '''Hieropolis''', he rules the country with iron fist and strict tradition. Anyone who dares defy The Great Despot is usually executed on the spot or thrown into dungeons for fate more brutal than death. These and other traditions of the Despotate are nurtured to preserve their lineage as the last and the true successor of the ancient Axonian Empire. <br /> <br /> However, the various Nistrian peoples practice more than one Path to worship the [[Host]]. The teachings of Nistrian Hieronism, called the Path of Tradition, hearken back to the Axonian era and are maintained through the coastal lands as well as eastern reaches of the country. In addition, Gnostic Hieronosm, which is most widely practiced in Aldor, has taken root in the central regions of the country, while the Chervenians people that have ties with the distant land of [[Skadia]] maintain Northern Hieronism, or Path of Stoicism, mostly in the north-west part of the country.<br /> <br /> == History and culture ==<br /> Nistra has long history hailing back to the era of the ancient Axonian Empire. This is seen in every aspect of their life, attempting to preserve their Axonian heritage. From the government policy to their way to worshipping the Host, to their armaments, strategy of war, and their cuisines, every detail is kept as similar as possible with the practices of the ancient empire. This preservation of tradition should be seen not only as as a means to maintaing their cultural heritage, but also as a status symbol as the true successor of the Axonian empire. After many conflicts, both Aldor and Nistra have recognized and sometimes adopted their respective characteristics and advances for their own use.<br /> <br /> Rather typically for an absolute ruler, the Great Despot is also known as a patron of their people. Every year the monarch ensures a military parade across their capital city to show the might of Nistrian military for the common people. <br /> <br /> Relatively few unique articles of Nistrian cuisine are widely distinguished in Aldor. Some better known examples include their traditional [[Nistrian Condiments|condiments]] which Axonian philosophers have mentioned in their writings and the more recently developed [[Custard Muffin]]s.<br /> <br /> ===Council of Peoples===<br /> Although ruled by absolutism and great focus on tradition, most people in Nistra belong to the four major tribes who all have their own languages, customs and way of life that warrant them their own individual rights and privileges (or the lack thereof), which are granted to them by what is known as the Council of Peoples.<br /> <br /> The most numerous people are the '''Chervenians'''. Their language is reminiscent of that of [[Skadia]]ns, although their temperaments are more mild and joyful. The majority of Chervenians are peasants and farmers. There are few of them among the upper society, with any who rise to nobility having to compete against the extended privileges of the other ethnicities. The second most numerous people, '''Marrs''', have close resemblance with Chervenians, and are found in majority along the southern coastline and especially the port cities. Marrs are relieved of numerous taxes and fees, so many become merchants or craftsment. The third group, '''Zeineshes''', hail from ancient nomads who inhabited the local plains. They form the bulk of the Great Despot's cavalry, but other than that and the unique language they speak, they are hardly distinguishable from the other Nistrians. Finally, there are the most direct descendants of ancient Axonians, the '''Ksifits'''. A large portion of the nobility, city magistrates, high clergy, and even the Great Despot himself come from Ksifit bloodlines. Although this effectively places them as the ruling ethnicity of the realm, the other peoples are also known to continue adoring their clothing with their respective traditional folk patterns to show defiance on the ruling Ksifits minority.<br /> <br /> ==Military and warfare==<br /> Similar on how Nistrian people keeping their culture and way of life strictly following the tradition of Ancient Axonian, their weaponries and warfare are still following the tradition no matter how ancient or how antique they were. To their Great Despot, preserving and replicating centuries-old weapons and armors is a matter of prestige to be perceived as the successor of the Great Axonian Empire. But sometimes out of necessity and numerous conflicts with neighboring Aldor, pushed them to copy others strategy or adapting new strategy towards their rivals.<br /> <br /> Beside antique weaponries, Nistra put maces in high regard and even renowned as noble weapon. Unlike Skadia that create many bludgeons and have deep root of respect toward mace, Nistrian people see maces as the power to defeat Aldorian full-plated knights. There are so many vendors, smiths, and traders showing their unique and powerful mace that can make a dent of the most expensive Aldorian plate armor.<br /> <br /> For defensive, scale armor is still used by many troops in Nistrian army. Dated back when Nistra's influence stretched far to the East with their full-scaled armor cataphracts. With their love in military tradition, [[Scaled Armor|scaled armor]] and [[Scaled Boots|scaled boots]] still a common sight on every Nistrian equipment.<br /> <br /> There are several tactics that shown still effective even for current warfare standard that still practiced by Nistrian army. Some of them are well-known that even praised by their rivals to be studied, adopted, or strategically calculated for their own retaliation tactic.<br /> <br /> * The famous square shield formation. Nistrian military deployed their heavy infantry in square formation armed with their tower shields. This formation help them to protect their first row of infantry but also the archers behind the square formation. Making them impervious to disorganized attack from Fjall raids and intimidate Aldorian commander to charge their heavy cavalry for needless death.<br /> * Skirmishing tactic. Beside the full-plated heavy infantry from Nistra fending off rows of enemies, there are many support from the flanking light cavalry and agile archers/horse archers whittling down enemies from the back or any weak point of enemies' ranks. Trapping enemies to defend themselves from all sides.<br /> * [[Nistrian Flame Flask|Flame Flask]]. The famous yet mysterious Nistrian Flame, created with their secret recipe by the Nistrian alchemists and engineers that not even Aldorian scholars can reproduce. Throwing these bottles of flame can set ablaze even the most armored Aldorian commander or disorganized enemies' rank who tried to avoid both the fire and also the Nistrian infantry advance.<br /> <br /> Nistrian army are famously renown across The Continent because their training regime, their antique weaponries, and also their heavy armored soldiers. There are many elite troops that are personally trained to aid Great Despot's war across the Continent or for personal bodyguards protecting the capital cities. Current troops that Nistra known to recruit are:<br /> <br /> * Agemon or ''Aegemon''. The elite guardsmen of The Great Despot himself. Picked from young age across the country to be trained in Gymnasium with harsh and cruel training regime not only for building their physical prowess, but also their martial and magic arts to become the perfect bodyguard. Usually armed with heavy polehammer or [[Nistrian Polemace|two-handed mace]] and adequate magical knowledge of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]], Agemons are the heavy hitting infantry that not only good at protecting Nistrian Despotate, but also dealing heavy damage to whoever dares to defy their Despot.<br /> * Cataphract. Heavy cavalry armed with armor from the rider to the hooves of their horses. The rider adored with countless shiny [[Scaled Armor|scales of armor]] and armed with hefty [[Flanged Mace|flanged mace]]. Cataphract will charge in wegde formation with their heavy armored mount like battering ram that even break pikemen formation. After the brutal trample from their charge, the rider will finish whoever survive the initial charge with their heavy maces. <br /> * Nistrian Heavy Infantry. Nistrian military really believe in the strength of their infantrymen. This showed with many of their infantry ranks are geared with scaled armor and protection such as [[Nistrian Shield|Nistrian shield]] to protect themselves and their back ranks that usually filled with light infantry or archers.<br /> * Skirmish Light Cavalry. Beside their heavy cavalry of cataphract, Nistra also use many light cavalry to harass enemies backline or flank infantry that are preoccupied by their sturdy heavy infantry. Usually armed with [[Skirmisher Shield|shield]] to protect them from stray arrows.<br /> * Skirmish Light Infantry. Nistrian military also deployed light infantry. Most notably their light infantry consist of archers that raining arrow from the back line, or maneuvering across the battlefield to whitling down enemies numbers.<br /> * Geomancer Mage. Even though Agemon or other high commander in Nistra learn some magic of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]] to bolster their defense, there are also many powerful geomancers deployed to cast runic boulder or earthquake to shatter walls, buildings, or human alike just like when Nistrian besieged the city of [[Aldwynn]].<br /> *Varangs. Nistra just like their rival Aldor, bulk their military ranks with mercenary or anyone who put a price for their service. This mercenary can be from their Northern brigands, or the famous Varangs mercenary from Fjall clans. From decades of hiring Varangs, Nistrian military learn the usefulness of [[Nistrian Bardiche|bardiches]] that the Varangs brought from [[Skadia]].<br /> <br /> == Trivia ==<br /> <br /> * Nistra inspired heavily with the history of Byzantine Empire which how they proclaimed themselves as the successor of Axonian Empire which might be referenced Roman Empire.<br /> * The many people in Nistra also transpired from Byzantine diverse ethnicity which at some point also include Slavs, Armenian, Syria, Southern Italy, Anatolia, and many more.<br /> * Their box formation referenced Roman Empire testudo formation and square formation.<br /> <br /> == Notable Nistrians NPC/Character ==<br /> <br /> * [[Leosthenes]]<br /> * [[Rigo Nevic]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Nistra&diff=73244 2025-09-20T19:53:08Z

<p>Rhapsody: </p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Leosthenes.png|right|Leosthenes was trained to be Agemon.]]<br /> {{quote|Nistra is the last surviving fragment of Axonia, the great empire of old. The mountainous realm is home to many peoples, all ruled with iron fist by the Great Despot.}}<br /> [[Nistra|Nistrian Despotate]] is a dominantly [[human]] country located at the west end of [[the Continent]], most notable for being successor state to the old [[Axonia]]n empire and for making war with [[Aldor]] numerous times in the past.<br /> <br /> == Geography and Economy ==<br /> Nistra is bordered by the [[Fjall]] clans up north and [[Aldor]] to the east, and by the sea in the south and west. Nistra is described as mountainous place, especially in the northern region bordering Fjall. The long and winding coastline in the south and west has made Nistra one of the great nations of seafarers and traders. The east part of Nistra that borders Aldor is the place where skirmishes as well as great wars were fought between the two nations, sometimes for decades or even longer. <br /> <br /> During the recent civil war in Aldor, some of Nistrian traders have been able to make their business in [[Brynn]]. As of late, there has been considerable exchange in products, armaments and knowledge between the two rivaling countries. Nistrian traders are known to stock various shields and weapons Nistra is known for, as well as their their famous [[Nistrian Flame Flask|bottled incendiary weapon]], but also textile products made of [[Bolt of Cloth|linen]] and [[Spool of Thread|wool]]. In return, their exports from Aldor, and further, include timber and local agricultural products like grain and wine. <br /> <br /> The singular [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through almost all of the Nistrian coastal cities, including one of the settlements on an island off the south-west coast of the country. The status of trade by land is presently unknown but speculated to be disturbed by the civil war of Aldor and persisting raids from Fjall, making naval connection something of a lifeline for the country.<br /> <br /> == Government and religion ==<br /> As the full name of the nation implies, the monarch of Nistra is a single person titled as The Great Despot. From his seat of residence and governance in the capital city of '''Hieropolis''', he rules the country with iron fist and strict tradition. Anyone who dares defy The Great Despot is usually executed on the spot or thrown into dungeons for fate more brutal than death. These and other traditions of the Despotate are nurtured to preserve their lineage as the last and the true successor of the ancient Axonian Empire. <br /> <br /> However, the various Nistrian peoples practice more than one Path to worship the [[Host]]. The teachings of Nistrian Hieronism, called the Path of Tradition, hearken back to the Axonian era and are maintained through the coastal lands as well as eastern reaches of the country. In addition, Gnostic Hieronosm, which is most widely practiced in Aldor, has taken root in the central regions of the country, while the Chervenians people that have ties with the distant land of [[Skadia]] maintain Northern Hieronism, or Path of Stoicism, mostly in the north-west part of the country.<br /> <br /> == History and culture ==<br /> Nistra has long history hailing back to the era of the ancient Axonian Empire. This is seen in every aspect of their life, attempting to preserve their Axonian heritage. From the government policy to their way to worshipping the Host, to their armaments, strategy of war, and their cuisines, every detail is kept as similar as possible with the practices of the ancient empire. This preservation of tradition should be seen not only as as a means to maintaing their cultural heritage, but also as a status symbol as the true successor of the Axonian empire. After many conflicts, both Aldor and Nistra have recognized and sometimes adopted their respective characteristics and advances for their own use.<br /> <br /> Rather typically for an absolute ruler, the Great Despot is also known as a patron of their people. Every year the monarch ensures a military parade across their capital city to show the might of Nistrian military for the common people. <br /> <br /> Relatively few unique articles of Nistrian cuisine are widely distinguished in Aldor. Some better known examples include their traditional [[Nistrian Condiments|condiments]] which Axonian philosophers have mentioned in their writings and the more recently developed [[Custard Muffin]]s.<br /> <br /> ===Council of Peoples===<br /> Although ruled by absolutism and great focus on tradition, most people in Nistra belong to the four major tribes who all have their own languages, customs and way of life that warrant them their own individual rights and privileges (or the lack thereof), which are granted to them by what is known as the Council of Peoples.<br /> <br /> The most numerous people are the '''Chervenians'''. Their language is reminiscent of that of Skadians, although their temperaments are more mild and joyful. The majority of Chervenians are peasants and farmers. There are few of them among the nobility, with any who rise to nobility having to compete against the extended privileges of the other ethnicities. The second most numerous people, '''Marrs''', have close resemblance with Chervenians, and are found in majority along the southern coastline and especially the port cities. Marrs are relieved of numerous taxes and fees, so many become merchants or craftsment. The third group, '''Zeineshes''', hail from ancient nomads who inhabited the local plains. They form the bulk of the Great Despot's cavalry, but other than that and the unique language they speak, they are hardly distinguishable from the other Nistrians. Finally, there are the most direct descendants of ancient Axonians, the '''Ksifits'''. A large portion of the nobility, city magistrates, high clergy, and even the Great Despot himself come from Ksifit bloodlines. Although this effectively places them as the ruling ethnicity of the realm, the other peoples are also known to continue adoring their clothing with their respective traditional folk patterns to show defiance on the ruling Ksifits minority.<br /> <br /> ==Military and warfare==<br /> Similar on how Nistrian people keeping their culture and way of life strictly following the tradition of Ancient Axonian, their weaponries and warfare are still following the tradition no matter how ancient or how antique they were. To their Great Despot, preserving and replicating centuries-old weapons and armors is a matter of prestige to be perceived as the successor of the Great Axonian Empire. But sometimes out of necessity and numerous conflicts with neighboring Aldor, pushed them to copy others strategy or adapting new strategy towards their rivals.<br /> <br /> Beside antique weaponries, Nistra put maces in high regard and even renowned as noble weapon. Unlike Skadia that create many bludgeons and have deep root of respect toward mace, Nistrian people see maces as the power to defeat Aldorian full-plated knights. There are so many vendors, smiths, and traders showing their unique and powerful mace that can make a dent of the most expensive Aldorian plate armor.<br /> <br /> For defensive, scale armor is still used by many troops in Nistrian army. Dated back when Nistra's influence stretched far to the East with their full-scaled armor cataphracts. With their love in military tradition, [[Scaled Armor|scaled armor]] and [[Scaled Boots|scaled boots]] still a common sight on every Nistrian equipment.<br /> <br /> There are several tactics that shown still effective even for current warfare standard that still practiced by Nistrian army. Some of them are well-known that even praised by their rivals to be studied, adopted, or strategically calculated for their own retaliation tactic.<br /> <br /> * The famous square shield formation. Nistrian military deployed their heavy infantry in square formation armed with their tower shields. This formation help them to protect their first row of infantry but also the archers behind the square formation. Making them impervious to disorganized attack from Fjall raids and intimidate Aldorian commander to charge their heavy cavalry for needless death.<br /> * Skirmishing tactic. Beside the full-plated heavy infantry from Nistra fending off rows of enemies, there are many support from the flanking light cavalry and agile archers/horse archers whittling down enemies from the back or any weak point of enemies' ranks. Trapping enemies to defend themselves from all sides.<br /> * [[Nistrian Flame Flask|Flame Flask]]. The famous yet mysterious Nistrian Flame, created with their secret recipe by the Nistrian alchemists and engineers that not even Aldorian scholars can reproduce. Throwing these bottles of flame can set ablaze even the most armored Aldorian commander or disorganized enemies' rank who tried to avoid both the fire and also the Nistrian infantry advance.<br /> <br /> Nistrian army are famously renown across The Continent because their training regime, their antique weaponries, and also their heavy armored soldiers. There are many elite troops that are personally trained to aid Great Despot's war across the Continent or for personal bodyguards protecting the capital cities. Current troops that Nistra known to recruit are:<br /> <br /> * Agemon or ''Aegemon''. The elite guardsmen of The Great Despot himself. Picked from young age across the country to be trained in Gymnasium with harsh and cruel training regime not only for building their physical prowess, but also their martial and magic arts to become the perfect bodyguard. Usually armed with heavy polehammer or [[Nistrian Polemace|two-handed mace]] and adequate magical knowledge of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]], Agemons are the heavy hitting infantry that not only good at protecting Nistrian Despotate, but also dealing heavy damage to whoever dares to defy their Despot.<br /> * Cataphract. Heavy cavalry armed with armor from the rider to the hooves of their horses. The rider adored with countless shiny [[Scaled Armor|scales of armor]] and armed with hefty [[Flanged Mace|flanged mace]]. Cataphract will charge in wegde formation with their heavy armored mount like battering ram that even break pikemen formation. After the brutal trample from their charge, the rider will finish whoever survive the initial charge with their heavy maces. <br /> * Nistrian Heavy Infantry. Nistrian military really believe in the strength of their infantrymen. This showed with many of their infantry ranks are geared with scaled armor and protection such as [[Nistrian Shield|Nistrian shield]] to protect themselves and their back ranks that usually filled with light infantry or archers.<br /> * Skirmish Light Cavalry. Beside their heavy cavalry of cataphract, Nistra also use many light cavalry to harass enemies backline or flank infantry that are preoccupied by their sturdy heavy infantry. Usually armed with [[Skirmisher Shield|shield]] to protect them from stray arrows.<br /> * Skirmish Light Infantry. Nistrian military also deployed light infantry. Most notably their light infantry consist of archers that raining arrow from the back line, or maneuvering across the battlefield to whitling down enemies numbers.<br /> * Geomancer Mage. Even though Agemon or other high commander in Nistra learn some magic of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]] to bolster their defense, there are also many powerful geomancers deployed to cast runic boulder or earthquake to shatter walls, buildings, or human alike just like when Nistrian besieged the city of [[Aldwynn]].<br /> *Varangs. Nistra just like their rival Aldor, bulk their military ranks with mercenary or anyone who put a price for their service. This mercenary can be from their Northern brigands, or the famous Varangs mercenary from Fjall clans. From decades of hiring Varangs, Nistrian military learn the usefulness of [[Nistrian Bardiche|bardiches]] that the Varangs brought from [[Skadia]].<br /> <br /> == Trivia ==<br /> <br /> * Nistra inspired heavily with the history of Byzantine Empire which how they proclaimed themselves as the successor of Axonian Empire which might be referenced Roman Empire.<br /> * The many people in Nistra also transpired from Byzantine diverse ethnicity which at some point also include Slavs, Armenian, Syria, Southern Italy, Anatolia, and many more.<br /> * Their box formation referenced Roman Empire testudo formation and square formation.<br /> <br /> == Notable Nistrians NPC/Character ==<br /> <br /> * [[Leosthenes]]<br /> * [[Rigo Nevic]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Nistra&diff=73243 2025-09-20T19:51:08Z

<p>Rhapsody: condensing, organizing and refining information in the first three sections (Council of Peoples is some kind of governmental body instead of alternate name of the country)</p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Leosthenes.png|right|Leosthenes was trained to be Agemon.]]<br /> {{quote|Nistra is the last surviving fragment of Axonia, the great empire of old. The mountainous realm is home to many peoples, all ruled with iron fist by the Great Despot.}}<br /> [[Nistra|Nistrian Despotate]] is a dominantly [[human]] country located at the west end of [[the Continent]], most notable for being successor state to the old [[Axonia]]n empire and for making war with [[Aldor]] numerous times in the past.<br /> <br /> == Geography and Economy ==<br /> Nistra is bordered by the [[Fjall]] clans up north and [[Aldor]] to the east, and by the sea in the south and west. Nistra is described as mountainous place, especially in the northern region bordering Fjall. The long and winding coastline in the south and west has made Nistra one of the great nations of seafarers and traders. The east part of Nistra that borders Aldor is the place where skirmishes as well as great wars were fought between the two nations, sometimes for decades or even longer. <br /> <br /> During the recent civil war in Aldor, some of Nistrian traders have been able to make their business in [[Brynn]]. As of late, there has been considerable exchange in products, armaments and knowledge between the two rivaling countries. Nistrian traders are known to stock various shields and weapons Nistra is known for, as well as their their famous [[Nistrian Flame Flask|bottled incendiary weapon]], but also textile products made of [[Bolt of Cloth|linen]] and [[Spool of Thread|wool]]. In return, their exports from Aldor, and further, include timber and local agricultural products like grain and wine. <br /> <br /> The singular [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through almost all of the Nistrian coastal cities, including one of the settlements on an island off the south-west coast of the country. The status of trade by land is presently unknown but speculated to be disturbed by the civil war of Aldor and persisting raids from Fjall, making naval connection something of a lifeline for the country.<br /> <br /> == Government and religion ==<br /> As the full name of the nation implies, the monarch of Nistra is a single person titled as The Great Despot. From his seat of residence and governance, he rules the country with iron fist and strict tradition. Anyone who dares defy The Great Despot is usually executed on the spot or thrown into dungeons for fate more brutal than death. These and other traditions of the Despotate are nurtured to preserve their lineage as the last and the true successor of the ancient Axonian Empire. <br /> <br /> However, the various Nistrian peoples practice more than one Path to worship the [[Host]]. The teachings of Nistrian Hieronism, called the Path of Tradition, hearken back to the Axonian era and are maintained through the coastal lands as well as eastern reaches of the country. In addition, Gnostic Hieronosm, which is most widely practiced in Aldor, has taken root in the central regions of the country, while the Chervenians people that have ties with the distant land of [[Skadia]] maintain Northern Hieronism, or Path of Stoicism, mostly in the north-west part of the country.<br /> <br /> == History and culture ==<br /> Nistra has long history hailing back to the era of the ancient Axonian Empire. This is seen in every aspect of their life, attempting to preserve their Axonian heritage. From the government policy to their way to worshipping the Host, to their armaments, strategy of war, and their cuisines, every detail is kept as similar as possible with the practices of the ancient empire. This preservation of tradition should be seen not only as as a means to maintaing their cultural heritage, but also as a status symbol as the true successor of the Axonian empire. After many conflicts, both Aldor and Nistra have recognized and sometimes adopted their respective characteristics and advances for their own use.<br /> <br /> Rather typically for an absolute ruler, the Great Despot is also known as a patron of their people. Every year the monarch ensures a military parade across their capital city to show the might of Nistrian military for the common people. <br /> <br /> Relatively few unique articles of Nistrian cuisine are widely distinguished in Aldor. Some better known examples include their traditional [[Nistrian Condiments|condiments]] which Axonian philosophers have mentioned in their writings and the more recently developed [[Custard Muffin]]s.<br /> <br /> ===Council of Peoples===<br /> Although ruled by absolutism and great focus on tradition, most people in Nistra belong to the four major tribes who all have their own languages, customs and way of life that warrant them their own individual rights and privileges (or the lack thereof), which are granted to them by what is known as the Council of Peoples.<br /> <br /> The most numerous people are the '''Chervenians'''. Their language is reminiscent of that of Skadians, although their temperaments are more mild and joyful. The majority of Chervenians are peasants and farmers. There are few of them among the nobility, with any who rise to nobility having to compete against the extended privileges of the other ethnicities. The second most numerous people, '''Marrs''', have close resemblance with Chervenians, and are found in majority along the southern coastline and especially the port cities. Marrs are relieved of numerous taxes and fees, so many become merchants or craftsment. The third group, '''Zeineshes''', hail from ancient nomads who inhabited the local plains. They form the bulk of the Great Despot's cavalry, but other than that and the unique language they speak, they are hardly distinguishable from the other Nistrians. Finally, there are the most direct descendants of ancient Axonians, the '''Ksifits'''. A large portion of the nobility, city magistrates, high clergy, and even the Great Despot himself come from Ksifit bloodlines. Although this effectively places them as the ruling ethnicity of the realm, the other peoples are also known to continue adoring their clothing with their respective traditional folk patterns to show defiance on the ruling Ksifits minority.<br /> <br /> ==Military and warfare==<br /> Similar on how Nistrian people keeping their culture and way of life strictly following the tradition of Ancient Axonian, their weaponries and warfare are still following the tradition no matter how ancient or how antique they were. To their Great Despot, preserving and replicating centuries-old weapons and armors is a matter of prestige to be perceived as the successor of the Great Axonian Empire. But sometimes out of necessity and numerous conflicts with neighboring Aldor, pushed them to copy others strategy or adapting new strategy towards their rivals.<br /> <br /> Beside antique weaponries, Nistra put maces in high regard and even renowned as noble weapon. Unlike Skadia that create many bludgeons and have deep root of respect toward mace, Nistrian people see maces as the power to defeat Aldorian full-plated knights. There are so many vendors, smiths, and traders showing their unique and powerful mace that can make a dent of the most expensive Aldorian plate armor.<br /> <br /> For defensive, scale armor is still used by many troops in Nistrian army. Dated back when Nistra's influence stretched far to the East with their full-scaled armor cataphracts. With their love in military tradition, [[Scaled Armor|scaled armor]] and [[Scaled Boots|scaled boots]] still a common sight on every Nistrian equipment.<br /> <br /> There are several tactics that shown still effective even for current warfare standard that still practiced by Nistrian army. Some of them are well-known that even praised by their rivals to be studied, adopted, or strategically calculated for their own retaliation tactic.<br /> <br /> * The famous square shield formation. Nistrian military deployed their heavy infantry in square formation armed with their tower shields. This formation help them to protect their first row of infantry but also the archers behind the square formation. Making them impervious to disorganized attack from Fjall raids and intimidate Aldorian commander to charge their heavy cavalry for needless death.<br /> * Skirmishing tactic. Beside the full-plated heavy infantry from Nistra fending off rows of enemies, there are many support from the flanking light cavalry and agile archers/horse archers whittling down enemies from the back or any weak point of enemies' ranks. Trapping enemies to defend themselves from all sides.<br /> * [[Nistrian Flame Flask|Flame Flask]]. The famous yet mysterious Nistrian Flame, created with their secret recipe by the Nistrian alchemists and engineers that not even Aldorian scholars can reproduce. Throwing these bottles of flame can set ablaze even the most armored Aldorian commander or disorganized enemies' rank who tried to avoid both the fire and also the Nistrian infantry advance.<br /> <br /> Nistrian army are famously renown across The Continent because their training regime, their antique weaponries, and also their heavy armored soldiers. There are many elite troops that are personally trained to aid Great Despot's war across the Continent or for personal bodyguards protecting the capital cities. Current troops that Nistra known to recruit are:<br /> <br /> * Agemon or ''Aegemon''. The elite guardsmen of The Great Despot himself. Picked from young age across the country to be trained in Gymnasium with harsh and cruel training regime not only for building their physical prowess, but also their martial and magic arts to become the perfect bodyguard. Usually armed with heavy polehammer or [[Nistrian Polemace|two-handed mace]] and adequate magical knowledge of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]], Agemons are the heavy hitting infantry that not only good at protecting Nistrian Despotate, but also dealing heavy damage to whoever dares to defy their Despot.<br /> * Cataphract. Heavy cavalry armed with armor from the rider to the hooves of their horses. The rider adored with countless shiny [[Scaled Armor|scales of armor]] and armed with hefty [[Flanged Mace|flanged mace]]. Cataphract will charge in wegde formation with their heavy armored mount like battering ram that even break pikemen formation. After the brutal trample from their charge, the rider will finish whoever survive the initial charge with their heavy maces. <br /> * Nistrian Heavy Infantry. Nistrian military really believe in the strength of their infantrymen. This showed with many of their infantry ranks are geared with scaled armor and protection such as [[Nistrian Shield|Nistrian shield]] to protect themselves and their back ranks that usually filled with light infantry or archers.<br /> * Skirmish Light Cavalry. Beside their heavy cavalry of cataphract, Nistra also use many light cavalry to harass enemies backline or flank infantry that are preoccupied by their sturdy heavy infantry. Usually armed with [[Skirmisher Shield|shield]] to protect them from stray arrows.<br /> * Skirmish Light Infantry. Nistrian military also deployed light infantry. Most notably their light infantry consist of archers that raining arrow from the back line, or maneuvering across the battlefield to whitling down enemies numbers.<br /> * Geomancer Mage. Even though Agemon or other high commander in Nistra learn some magic of [[Geomancy (skill tree)|Geomancy]] to bolster their defense, there are also many powerful geomancers deployed to cast runic boulder or earthquake to shatter walls, buildings, or human alike just like when Nistrian besieged the city of [[Aldwynn]].<br /> *Varangs. Nistra just like their rival Aldor, bulk their military ranks with mercenary or anyone who put a price for their service. This mercenary can be from their Northern brigands, or the famous Varangs mercenary from Fjall clans. From decades of hiring Varangs, Nistrian military learn the usefulness of [[Nistrian Bardiche|bardiches]] that the Varangs brought from [[Skadia]].<br /> <br /> == Trivia ==<br /> <br /> * Nistra inspired heavily with the history of Byzantine Empire which how they proclaimed themselves as the successor of Axonian Empire which might be referenced Roman Empire.<br /> * The many people in Nistra also transpired from Byzantine diverse ethnicity which at some point also include Slavs, Armenian, Syria, Southern Italy, Anatolia, and many more.<br /> * Their box formation referenced Roman Empire testudo formation and square formation.<br /> <br /> == Notable Nistrians NPC/Character ==<br /> <br /> * [[Leosthenes]]<br /> * [[Rigo Nevic]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Skadia&diff=72688 2025-09-15T18:59:35Z

<p>Rhapsody: misnomer fix</p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Velmir.png|right|Velmir is a Skadian revenger.]]<br /> {{quote|Skadia is a distant northern country surrounded by many enemies. Skadians are rugged, reserved, and well-known for their disdain toward all manner of hierarchy, preferring to settle important matters by popular assemblies.}}<br /> [[Skadia]], also known as '''Semigradye''' - &quot;the Land of Seven Cities&quot;, is a dominantly [[human]] country consisting of allied city-states and located to the north-east of [[Aldor]]. <br /> <br /> ==Geography and economy==<br /> Skadia is bordered by [[Fjall]] to the west, [[Jacinth Kingdoms]] to the south, and to the east by the pagan nomad cultures. It lies at the northern end of [[the Continent]], before the Icy Sea. <br /> <br /> A land of contrasts, in Skadia mountains give way to dense taiga which in turn recedes into grasslands and steppe in the south-east. Additionally, Skadia is a maritime country, its coastline almost as expansive as that of Fjall or [[Nistra]], a matter which is reflected by [[Velmir|the background of some Skadians]] traveling Aldor.<br /> <br /> Skadian exports to Aldor include amber, pelts, meat and other animal products, as well as weapons and armor, while notable imports from Aldor are agricultural products like grain and wine. The northern loop of the [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through cities of Bela Brama and Nyzhgrad before splintering to the norther-eastern Vezhina and further west into Fjall.<br /> <br /> ==Government and religion==<br /> Skadia consists of many independent cities, although only the seven largest and most prosperous ones - Vezhina, Bela Brama, Nizhgrad, Veledz, Stroma, Brazhav, and Tur - are widely documented. <br /> <br /> Skadia is not ruled in whole nor in parts by any line of monarchs; the nobility of Skadia holds only fractional power compared to its neighbors. Skadian cities raise their own armies and mint their own coinage. Popular assemblies called ''veches'' by influential townsmen are responsible for governmental decisions, but when faced with a major threat, the cities may elect an Elder Prince to lead the nation and its armies. <br /> <br /> Like in the nearby Aldor, Gnostic Hieronism is widespread in southern Skadia, but in the north the Path of Stoicism, or Northern Hieronism, is dominant, a Path shared in modern times only in the northern Nistra. <br /> <br /> ==History and culture==<br /> Relatively little is known of the history of Skadia. Raids from Fjall and [[Yarimad]] have shaped the character of Skadians in particular, and the country has no immediate [[Hieron]]ite neighbors, the closest being Aldor – the two countries are separated by mountain ranges and lack any shared borders. <br /> <br /> Skadian people are considered to be rugged and reserved by Aldorians. They are known to hold grudges, paying the most grievous offenses in blood and going to great lengths to see these debts extracted. <br /> <br /> Skadia is also notable for its powerful mages, called ''volkhvs'', although other details of their preferred magic schools and strategies are not widely known in present-day Aldor, as well as for its [[Skadian Bardiche|bardiches]], which are a status symbol in the country not unlike swords in Aldor or maces and hammers in Nistra. <br /> <br /> Skadian cuisine consists of practical dishes and additives such as [[Taiga Rassolnik|incorporating vegetables with offal]] and [[Skadian Herbs|fortifying herbs]].<br /> <br /> ==Notable Skadians==<br /> *[[Velmir]]<br /> *[[Zdenebrad]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Skadia&diff=72687 2025-09-15T18:59:00Z

<p>Rhapsody: /* Geography and economics */</p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Velmir.png|right|Velmir is a Skadian revenger.]]<br /> {{quote|Skadia is a distant northern country surrounded by many enemies. Skadians are rugged, reserved, and well-known for their disdain toward all manner of hierarchy, preferring to settle important matters by popular assemblies.}}<br /> [[Skadia]], also known as '''Semigradye''' - &quot;the Land of Seven Cities&quot;, is a dominantly [[human]] country consisting of allied city-states and located to the north-east of [[Aldor]]. <br /> <br /> ==Geography and economics==<br /> Skadia is bordered by [[Fjall]] to the west, [[Jacinth Kingdoms]] to the south, and to the east by the pagan nomad cultures. It lies at the northern end of [[the Continent]], before the Icy Sea. <br /> <br /> A land of contrasts, in Skadia mountains give way to dense taiga which in turn recedes into grasslands and steppe in the south-east. Additionally, Skadia is a maritime country, its coastline almost as expansive as that of Fjall or [[Nistra]], a matter which is reflected by [[Velmir|the background of some Skadians]] traveling Aldor.<br /> <br /> Skadian exports to Aldor include amber, pelts, meat and other animal products, as well as weapons and armor, while notable imports from Aldor are agricultural products like grain and wine. The northern loop of the [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through cities of Bela Brama and Nyzhgrad before splintering to the norther-eastern Vezhina and further west into Fjall.<br /> <br /> ==Government and religion==<br /> Skadia consists of many independent cities, although only the seven largest and most prosperous ones - Vezhina, Bela Brama, Nizhgrad, Veledz, Stroma, Brazhav, and Tur - are widely documented. <br /> <br /> Skadia is not ruled in whole nor in parts by any line of monarchs; the nobility of Skadia holds only fractional power compared to its neighbors. Skadian cities raise their own armies and mint their own coinage. Popular assemblies called ''veches'' by influential townsmen are responsible for governmental decisions, but when faced with a major threat, the cities may elect an Elder Prince to lead the nation and its armies. <br /> <br /> Like in the nearby Aldor, Gnostic Hieronism is widespread in southern Skadia, but in the north the Path of Stoicism, or Northern Hieronism, is dominant, a Path shared in modern times only in the northern Nistra. <br /> <br /> ==History and culture==<br /> Relatively little is known of the history of Skadia. Raids from Fjall and [[Yarimad]] have shaped the character of Skadians in particular, and the country has no immediate [[Hieron]]ite neighbors, the closest being Aldor – the two countries are separated by mountain ranges and lack any shared borders. <br /> <br /> Skadian people are considered to be rugged and reserved by Aldorians. They are known to hold grudges, paying the most grievous offenses in blood and going to great lengths to see these debts extracted. <br /> <br /> Skadia is also notable for its powerful mages, called ''volkhvs'', although other details of their preferred magic schools and strategies are not widely known in present-day Aldor, as well as for its [[Skadian Bardiche|bardiches]], which are a status symbol in the country not unlike swords in Aldor or maces and hammers in Nistra. <br /> <br /> Skadian cuisine consists of practical dishes and additives such as [[Taiga Rassolnik|incorporating vegetables with offal]] and [[Skadian Herbs|fortifying herbs]].<br /> <br /> ==Notable Skadians==<br /> *[[Velmir]]<br /> *[[Zdenebrad]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Skadia&diff=72686 2025-09-15T18:56:45Z

<p>Rhapsody: Created page with &quot;{{stub}} Velmir is a Skadian revenger. {{quote|Skadia is a distant northern country surrounded by many enemies. Skadians are rugged, reserved, and well-known for their disdain toward all manner of hierarchy, preferring to settle important matters by popular assemblies.}} Skadia, also known as &#039;&#039;&#039;Semigradye&#039;&#039;&#039; - &quot;the Land of Seven Cities&quot;, is a dominantly human country consisting of allied city-states and located to the north-east of Al...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>{{stub}}<br /> [[File:Velmir.png|right|Velmir is a Skadian revenger.]]<br /> {{quote|Skadia is a distant northern country surrounded by many enemies. Skadians are rugged, reserved, and well-known for their disdain toward all manner of hierarchy, preferring to settle important matters by popular assemblies.}}<br /> [[Skadia]], also known as '''Semigradye''' - &quot;the Land of Seven Cities&quot;, is a dominantly [[human]] country consisting of allied city-states and located to the north-east of [[Aldor]]. <br /> <br /> ==Geography and economics==<br /> Skadia is bordered by [[Fjall]] to the west, [[Jacinth Kingdoms]] to the south, and to the east by the pagan nomad cultures. It lies at the northern end of [[the Continent]], before the Icy Sea. <br /> <br /> A land of contrasts, in Skadia mountains give way to dense taiga which in turn recedes into grasslands and steppe in the south-east. Additionally, Skadia is a maritime country, its coastline almost as expansive as that of Fjall or [[Nistra]], a matter which is reflected by [[Velmir|the background of some Skadians]] traveling Aldor.<br /> <br /> Skadian exports to Aldor include amber, pelts, meat and other animal products, as well as weapons and armor. The northern loop of the [[Azure Thread]] trade route passes through cities of Bela Brama and Nyzhgrad before splintering to the norther-eastern Vezhina and further west into Fjall.<br /> <br /> ==Government and religion==<br /> Skadia consists of many independent cities, although only the seven largest and most prosperous ones - Vezhina, Bela Brama, Nizhgrad, Veledz, Stroma, Brazhav, and Tur - are widely documented. <br /> <br /> Skadia is not ruled in whole nor in parts by any line of monarchs; the nobility of Skadia holds only fractional power compared to its neighbors. Skadian cities raise their own armies and mint their own coinage. Popular assemblies called ''veches'' by influential townsmen are responsible for governmental decisions, but when faced with a major threat, the cities may elect an Elder Prince to lead the nation and its armies. <br /> <br /> Like in the nearby Aldor, Gnostic Hieronism is widespread in southern Skadia, but in the north the Path of Stoicism, or Northern Hieronism, is dominant, a Path shared in modern times only in the northern Nistra. <br /> <br /> ==History and culture==<br /> Relatively little is known of the history of Skadia. Raids from Fjall and [[Yarimad]] have shaped the character of Skadians in particular, and the country has no immediate [[Hieron]]ite neighbors, the closest being Aldor – the two countries are separated by mountain ranges and lack any shared borders. <br /> <br /> Skadian people are considered to be rugged and reserved by Aldorians. They are known to hold grudges, paying the most grievous offenses in blood and going to great lengths to see these debts extracted. <br /> <br /> Skadia is also notable for its powerful mages, called ''volkhvs'', although other details of their preferred magic schools and strategies are not widely known in present-day Aldor, as well as for its [[Skadian Bardiche|bardiches]], which are a status symbol in the country not unlike swords in Aldor or maces and hammers in Nistra. <br /> <br /> Skadian cuisine consists of practical dishes and additives such as [[Taiga Rassolnik|incorporating vegetables with offal]] and [[Skadian Herbs|fortifying herbs]].<br /> <br /> ==Notable Skadians==<br /> *[[Velmir]]<br /> *[[Zdenebrad]]</div>

Rhapsody https://stoneshard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Aldor&diff=72685 2025-09-15T15:52:31Z

<p>Rhapsody: added the elven language name for Aldor, as per folio</p> <hr /> <div>{{Stub}}<br /> {{Outdated}}<br /> '''Aldor''', known as ''Ab-Aldur'' to the elves, is the kingdom in which {{Gamename}} takes place, a formerly prosperous and powerful kingdom. <br /> <br /> ==Outdated Lore==<br /> Half a century before the events of the game, Aldor waged a war against the elven [[Jade Kingdoms]]. This aggression was repelled by the elves who in turn invaded Aldor. The kingdom was swept by a wave of bloodsheds. Making his last stand, the [[Last King]] revived many fallen warriors to act as his last line of defense. However this terrifying blasphemy was doomed to failure and the Last King was soon vanquished leaving behind him a terrible legacy. The disappearance of the Last King signed the end of this horrific part of Aldor's history which the historians aptly named the [[War of the Fallen]].<br /> <br /> In the aftermath of the war and following the fall of the monarchy no one was left at the reign of the kingdom. After the Jade Kingdoms armies left all matters of pretenders sought to ascend to the throne. This was the start of a decade long civil war, the [[Discord]]. Only the [[Grand Magistrate]], an alliance of well-off merchant families, tired of hatred and violence, was capable of stopping that bloodshed.<br /> <br /> Still, years of conflicts left Aldor ravaged. The Grand Magistrate slowly lost its role as its members parted ways. The already tenuous peace of the kingdom was stretched thin. This fragile balance was shattered when the Last King suddenly returned. The great orc migration and another political race added fuel to the fire of war. In a blink of an eye the whole Aldor was split into zones, influenced by rivaling faction.&lt;ref&gt;https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1926605606/stoneshard-open-world-roguelike-rpg-with-tactical/posts/2190173&lt;/ref&gt;<br /> <br /> This is where the story of {{Gamename}} begins...<br /> <br /> ==Interesting Facts==<br /> * At the time of the events of the game, Aldor is 428 years old.<br /> * Aldor, before unification, consisted of three smaller kingdoms, which were later demoted to duchies. The name of only one of these kingdoms of the past is known for certain - Sentia and the name of its last king - [[Crown of Benor the Dauntless|Benor the Dauntless]]. It is on the territory of this kingdom that modern [[Brynn]] is located.<br /> * The population of Aldor, with rare exceptions, professes [[Host# Gnostic Hieronism|Gnostic Hieronism]].<br /> <br /> [[Category:Stoneshard]]</div>

Rhapsody