Thera, the Empire of the Sea
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Thera is an underwater empire located somewhere deep in the waters of the inland sea. It is home to the ancient, isolated, and highly advanced Theran culture. Originally part of an even larger Siren empire spread across the globe, the present-day Thera is independent after the God of Water joined the empire.
Geography
The Empire of Thera sits at the bottom of the inland sea. Heavily isolated from the surface, the only way into Thera is a colossal glowing runed gate in front of an ancient bridge that leads to the large empire city. The Northern, Western, and Eastern Seas seem to be all but abandoned, with danger lurking around every corner exploring; the open ocean isn’t viable for most Therans.
The Mound
The large, destroyed remnants of the Empires of the Northern, Western, and Eastern Sea. Something has entered this area, and most Therans would prefer not to find out.
Geographical Features
Alien Geography - The Mound is roughly spherical and many leagues across. The geometry and architecture in The Mound are both alien and horrific to behold; nothing there is as it seems, causing dreadful effects to those gazing at the tremendous shifting former empire. Occasionally, when the stars are aligned to malignant effect, the whole city moves toward the gate opening of The Empire of the Southern Sea, and some part of the city may actually pass to breach the surface of the ocean there. This often appears as an unmarked isle in the middle of the ocean. When this happens, woe to those curious sailors or others of the plane who interact with The Mound and its denizens.
Abyssal Triangle
A stretch of sea that covers the area between Rokander and Alexandria. It is covered in a fog so thick that it blocks out all sunlight.
Geographical Features
Disappearances - Many pirate and commercial ships go missing every year and, sometimes, a ship will be found sailing without any people onboard. It has also been said that there are many haunted ships with dead bodies sailing across the sea.
Cities
Due to the danger of living under the sea Thera only has one megacity that encompasses the central sea of the continent.
Gyo
Gyo is an underwater city which dwells 10,000 meters below sea level at the bottom of a deep trench that surrounds the center of the Elemental continent. Due to Thera’s artifact “Heart of the Sea” it encases the entire city in a giant bubble, allowing non-siren visitors to breathe. It is also notoriously difficult to reach, with only 30% of non-guided ships surviving the journey.
Government
The government of Thera is ruled by the Emperor of the Southern Seas. The title of Emperor of the Southern Seas is a unique title. Once an Emperor dies they are replaced by a random citizen of Thera. This random citizen must give away their personality as they are possessed by an entity known as “The Emperor.”
Military
Thera has a large militaristic presence of 25,000. Most of this military is utilized to guard the borders of Thera.
Law
Thera Law defines property, contracts, and crimes. The Emperor of the Southern Sea rules over law with an iron fist. Ensuring that everyone follows the lawas that keep Thera safe from any encroaching thrat.
Society
Thera is a land culturally and philosophically separate to the rest of the nations. A land focused on peace and concerned with preserving its ancient traditions and culture.