Demarais

Demarais is one of the most advanced and educated nations in the world of Narpol. It is a land deeply rooted in science, progress, and intellectual pursuit, known for its secular government and a strong emphasis on education and research. While other nations may be steeped in religious traditions or autocratic rule, Demarais stands apart as a beacon of enlightenment values, logic, and innovation. Its capital city, Acyra, embodies these principles, being a hub of universities, libraries, and academic institutions that draw scholars and scientists from all across Narpol.

The capital, Acyra, is an urban masterpiece. Unlike many other capitals in Narpol, which may have religious buildings or palaces as their focal points, Acyra is centered around its universities and scientific institutions. The city's architecture reflects its Victorian-era aesthetic, with intricate stone buildings, clock towers, observatories, and sprawling libraries. Gas lamps line its wide streets, and the citizens are often seen in discussions or attending lectures, dressed in traditional Victorian attire but with a focus on intellectualism rather than fashion.

Key Historical Figures and Legends

King Armand the Wise (Armand I)
- Era: Pre-republic monarchy (overthrown 300 years ago).
- Legacy: Remembered as a philosopher-king who founded the University of Acyra and laid the groundwork for democratic ideals.
- Controversy: Though revered for his intellect, he was also criticized for failing to prevent the kingdom’s collapse into civil strife after his death.
- Cultural Impact: Statues and academic awards bear his name, symbolizing unity and wisdom.
The Acyra Rebellion (The Scholars’ Uprising)
- Event: 200 years ago, a group of scholars and students staged a rebellion against an oppressive aristocracy, using the University of Acyra as their base.
- Outcome: Overthrew the monarchy, establishing the first form of democratic governance.
Heroes:
- Henri Durand: Student leader who drafted the first democratic charter.
- Sophie Leclair: Acyra librarian who preserved records and plans during the chaos, later honored as the “Keeper of Truth.”
- Symbolism: Often invoked during modern protests or reform movements.
- Alain Rousselle (The Desert Diplomat)
- Role: Legendary explorer and diplomat who mapped the dangerous deserts south of Demarais and established trade routes with Gulfshire before its collapse.
- Stories: Known for surviving assassination attempts, crossing the desert with minimal supplies, and negotiating peace treaties with hostile tribes.
Legacy: Statues in his honor mark several trade posts and oases along the southern routes.
The Astronomer’s Guild and Celeste Vardin
- Guild: A secretive group of scientists and astrologers during the monarchy, rumored to have influenced early revolts with coded messages hidden in star charts.
- Leader: Celeste Vardin, a brilliant astronomer and rumored Dirent sympathizer, vanished mysteriously during the rebellion.
- Legacy: Her name is whispered among conspiracy theorists who believe her descendants still influence Demarais’s politics in secret.
The Battle of Starlight Vale
- Event: A decisive battle against Hanmel forces during their attempted invasion 70 years ago.
- Hero: General Augustin LaForge, who led Demarais forces to victory by exploiting terrain and weather conditions, earning him the title “Guardian of the Vale.”
- Mythology: Legends claim LaForge’s sword, Elysium’s Edge, was blessed by the gods and remains hidden, waiting for Demarais’s next great need.
The Black Mirror Incident
- Story: 150 years ago, a mysterious artifact known as the Black Mirror was uncovered beneath Acyra’s ruins.
- Rumors: Said to drive those who gazed into it mad, the mirror was blamed for a string of disappearances before being sealed away.
- Modern Theories: Some believe it was an elaborate hoax to discredit Dirent philosophers, while others whisper that it still exists, hidden in the university’s archives.

Political Influence

Military
- Although not known for its military strength, Demarais maintains a well-organized defense force. Rather than brute strength, its military emphasizes strategy, advanced technology, and scientific innovations in warfare. They are equipped with cutting-edge machinery and weapons designed through collaboration with the nation’s leading inventors and engineers.
- Key Military Asset: A fleet of airships, unique to Demarais, which patrol the skies and provide both defense and reconnaissance for the nation.
Relations with Other Nations
- Demarais enjoys cordial but somewhat aloof relations with its neighbors. While it is respected for its knowledge and innovation, other nations sometimes view it with suspicion due to its lack of religious adherence or traditional customs. However, its technological and medical advancements make it a valuable ally.
- Key Allies: Demarais has strong intellectual and trade alliances with other secular or progressive nations, but remains neutral in most conflicts.
- Key Rivals: Nations that are deeply religious or traditionalist often have strained relations with Demarais due to the country’s secular nature.

Key Locations

The University of Acyra: The most prestigious academic institution in Narpol, offering education in the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, and philosophy. Its observatories and laboratories are state-of-the-art.
The Central Library: A massive repository of knowledge, housing books, scrolls, and manuscripts from across the world. Scholars spend hours studying here.
The Tower of Progress: A symbol of Demarais' commitment to innovation, this towering structure is both an observatory and a research lab, where scientists work on everything from astronomy to chemistry.
Academy Gardens: A public park filled with statues of famous intellectuals, inventors, and scientists from Demarais' rich history. The gardens are a place for citizens to engage in discussions and debates.

Geography

Demarais is located in a fertile region, bordered by both mountains and plains. The Adalard Mountains, which loom majestically in the distance behind the capital city, provide natural protection and serve as a source of mineral wealth. The country also benefits from its rivers and lakes, offering fresh water, transportation, and fertile land for agriculture. The climate is temperate, with mild summers and cold winters, particularly in the northern regions near the mountains.

Cultural Heritage

Demarais prides itself on its rational, intellectual culture. The arts are important, but they are often seen through the lens of progress and enlightenment. Literature, philosophy, and scientific achievement are revered, and the country is less focused on traditional religious art or folk traditions compared to its neighbors.
- Religion: While there is freedom of belief in Demarais, religion plays little role in public life or governance. Secularism is a key value, and the nation’s citizens tend to prioritize scientific thought over spiritual or religious practices.
- Language: The official language of Demarais is a sophisticated variant of Narpolian Common, but the educated elite often speak in an intellectual dialect influenced by the languages of ancient scholars.
- Philosophy and Art: The people of Demarais celebrate philosophers, scientists, and writers. Their art often reflects themes of progress, discovery, and the human capacity for understanding.

Government

Demarais is governed by a secular parliamentary system. Its leadership consists of representatives elected based on their merit and knowledge rather than aristocratic or religious heritage. The government is structured to prioritize education, scientific advancement, and civil liberties. Decisions are made based on reason, debate, and empirical evidence, with input from the nation’s intellectual elite.
- The Chancellor of Demarais: The head of government, responsible for the nation's overall direction and for fostering relations with other countries. Unlike in monarchies or theocracies, the chancellor is an elected official with a background in governance and academic achievements.
- The Council of Scholars: This body advises the government on matters related to science, technology, health, and education. Many of its members are professors and leading thinkers in their fields.

Current State

The economy of Demarais is driven by research, innovation, and manufacturing. The nation is known for its production of advanced machinery, scientific instruments, and medical advancements. Its universities are also a key economic factor, attracting students and scholars from abroad who contribute to the local economy.
- Primary Industries:
  - Scientific Research and Development: The backbone of Demarais’ economy, this industry is focused on everything from astronomy to medicine.
  - Manufacturing: Demarais produces some of the finest instruments and machinery in Narpol, including advanced clockwork devices, steam engines, and medical equipment.
  - Education: Hosting students and scholars from other nations is a major source of revenue.