Humble Beginnings
Nestled in a harsh and desolate expanse of Amber’s far north, in proximity to the towering mountains, lies a region largely bereft of habitation. The once-thriving communities have been devastated by war, plague, and the lunacy of the madman Gaius, leaving only scattered remnants in their wake. For those who dare traverse the overgrown forests that once surrounded vibrant villages, the bleached bones of Gaius’s victims litter the landscape, serving as haunting reminders of his tyranny.
At the heart of this bleak territory lies the Viscounty of Wembelville, a domain bestowed upon the ambitious Andrés Campos by his majesty, King Bleys of Amber. Initially slow to act, the viscount recently made a controversial decision to relocate one thousand settlers, accompanied by a mobile hospital detachment and armed troops, into the desolate lake valley. Faced with the brutal realities of winter and the backlash from nobles who viewed him as a foreign intruder, Campos was undeterred. He immediately initiated construction efforts. Utilising a portal, he summoned a construction crew equipped with prefabricated habitations from his distant stronghold of Dharmvyadha. Foundations were swiftly laid, and protective domes began to rise impressively against the bleak winter sky.
The indigenous peoples watched warily as these newcomers established themselves, perceiving them as invaders. Yet, as the viscount’s settlers provided much-needed supplies—food, clothing, medical aid, and repairs to the dilapidated homes of the locals—apprehension began to give way to cautious optimism. The newly erected domes became sanctuaries of comfort and sustenance, offering an unexpected bounty of fresh vegetables, fruits, and livestock. Where despair had reigned, an abundance flourished. As spring approached, the two groups gradually began to collaborate, tilling the fertile land in preparation for the imminent growing season.
Back at the royal court of Amber and its shadowy assemblies among the northern lords, whispers of dissent arose against the viscount’s initiatives. Critics decried his unconventional methods, particularly his use of magical gates to facilitate movement and supply. The counterargument was compelling; any individual skilled in magic could replicate his feats. Yet, many naysayers appeared oblivious to the fact that such pathways had always existed. The viscount adeptly exploited this opportunity, and those wishing to close it would now need to persuade the king to impose restrictions.
In the centre of Wembelville, a glimmering lake cradles an island, upon which stands the remnants of a once-mighty castle. This edifice, a symbol of northern strength held by formidable lords, met its demise at the hands of Gaius, who had ravaged it, dispatching its inhabitants with ruthless efficiency. The viscount envisioned a meticulous reconstruction of this castle, asserting it as a potent emblem of the north’s resurgence and resilience.
Living in the northern territories, Viscount Andrés Campos remains a loyal subject of the king, yet he harbours strong republican ideals—an unwavering belief in the rights of self-determination. However, he grapples with the autocratic tendencies within the Amber court and the pervasive influence of divine rule. In response, he plans to grant the local populace the authority to enact regional laws and elect their leaders, thereby fostering self-governance within the viscounty’s borders. While the land technically remains his under Amber law, he aspires to serve as a representative of the people. He intends to run for the office, ensuring that if they choose a different path, he will honor their decision. Nevertheless, he will retain overarching control of regional security and justice, allowing each community within the viscounty to establish its constabulary.
The viscount has designated the castle on the island as his estate, granting him exclusive authority over its lands and purposes, as determined by the elected council. The council will collect taxes levied by the viscount, while the viscount will personally remit taxes owed to the crown. Through this framework, Viscount Andrés Campos aims to strike a balance between stability and innovation, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future while respecting the autonomy of the communities he serves.
Since its inception, Wembelville’s population has grown to around ten thousand.
The North, True and Strong
The banner of the newly appointed earl flutters proudly against the stark, icy backdrop of the northern highlands. The biting wind, a fierce companion from the distant peaks, sweeps down the mountainside, laden with swirling snowflakes that dance through the air. Despite the wintry chill that hampers their movements, the community unites in celebration, eager to honour their esteemed viscount. In a grand display of royal favour, King Bleys has elevated him to the rank of Earl, granting him not only a title but also vast tracts of land and significant responsibilities.
This viscounty serves as the vital foundation for the expansive earldom, extending across 497 square miles of rugged terrain. In an ambitious vision for growth, plans are underway to settle the land with new pioneers, dividing it into ten distinct communities, each designed to house approximately 500 inhabitants. The 7,500 souls residing in this remote yet promising territory are filled with anticipation for the arrival of spring, which heralds opportunities for expansion and revitalization. Preliminary surveys have commenced, and diligent scholars are poring over old maps, preparing for updates that will reflect the new layouts and developments.
Meanwhile, in another corner of the realm, the clamour of industry fills the air as the forges resonate with activity. Heavy machinery and skilled artisans labour tirelessly, producing prefabricated constructs that are meticulously arranged in a vast yard, awaiting assembly and deployment. The sound of metal clashing and the warmth of the fires contrast sharply with the chill of the northern winds, embodying the promise of progress and the relentless spirit of innovation that drives this burgeoning society forward.