Valtor - The Mountain Kings

Valtorians trace their heritage further back than any other nation on Estra.   Here is a timeline of events for the nation of Valor to the present day.

• 0E -10,000T: Earliest known Valtorian artifacts found.

• 0E -5000T: First Valtorian settlements established.

• 0E -2000T: Kingdoms and city-states emerge across Valtor.

• 0E -1000T: The Great War breaks out, lasting for 100 years and devastating much of Valtor.

• 0E -900T: The war ends with the signing of the Valtorian Accords, establishing the Summit of Zeniths as a means of resolving disputes between the city-states.

• 0E -800T: The city-state of Quartz Hills becomes known for its skilled blacksmiths and weaponsmiths, developing a reputation as a major military power.

• 0E -700T: The city-state of Garnet Valley experiences a period of rapid expansion, establishing colonies in neighboring regions and becoming a major player in Valtorian politics.

• 0E -500T: The city-state of Topaz Lake becomes a hub for fishing and trade, developing a strong maritime culture.

• 0E -300T: The city-state of Diamond Mountain establishes a network of mines and mining towns, leading to a period of economic growth and prosperity.

• 0E -100T: The city-state of Amethyst Ridge experiences a period of social upheaval, with protests and riots erupting over issues of inequality and corruption.

• 0E -50T: The city-state of Emerald Forest establishes a powerful druidic order, becoming known for its deep connection to the natural world.

• 1E 0T: The calendar system is introduced, marking the start of a new era.

• 1E 100T: The first Summit of Zeniths is held, marking the beginning of an annual tradition.

• 1E 150T: The city-state of Basalt Canyon declares its independence from the Kingdom of Granite Ridge.

• 1E 300T: The city-state of Jade Valley experiences a cultural and economic boom, becoming a hub for art and trade.

• 1E 500T: The city-state of Obsidian Plateau becomes known for its skilled artisans and craftspeople.

• 1E 750T: The city-state of Golden Forest establishes a system of communal farming, leading to a period of prosperity and cooperation.

• 1E 1000T: The city-state of Sandstone Ridge develops innovative irrigation techniques, increasing crop yields and allowing for population growth.

• 1E 1200T: The city-state of Gypsum Mesa becomes known for its impressive public works projects, including the construction of a large aqueduct.

• 1E 1350T: The city-state of Marble Cliff establishes a national park to protect its unique wildlife and natural beauty.

• 1E 1500T: The city-state of Slate Ridge experiences a surge in population growth and industrialization, leading to increased pollution and social inequality.

• 1E 1600T: The city-state of Limestone Plateau becomes known for its emphasis on education and the arts, establishing several prestigious academies and institutes.

• 1E 1700T: The city-state of Onyx Forest experiences a series of devastating wildfires, leading to the establishment of new environmental protection laws.

• 1E 1800T: The 1800th Summit of Zeniths is held, with the focus on addressing the growing problem of banditry and piracy in Valtorian waters.

• 1E 1900T: The city-state of Ruby Desert experiences a period of drought and famine, leading to a mass migration of its people to other parts of Valtor.

• 1E 1970T: The 1970th Summit of Zeniths is held, with the focus on improving trade relations with extra-estran civilizations.

• 2E 0000T: The start of a new Epoch, marking the passage of 500 years since the start of the calendar system.

• 2E 0045T: The Great Valtorian Drought begins, lasting for 20 years and leading to widespread famine and social unrest.

• 2E 0135T: The construction of the Valtorian Canal System begins, providing a reliable source of water for irrigation and transportation.

• 2E 0248T: The first Valtorian War breaks out between the Zeniths of the Sandstone Ridge Range and the Basalt Canyon Range over control of a major trade route.

• 2E 0263T: The Treaty of Ridgeview is signed, ending the First Valtorian War and establishing guidelines for peaceful resolution of disputes between ranges.

• 2E 0375T: The Jade Valley Range experiences a major earthquake, causing significant damage and loss of life.

• 2E 0500T: The first printing press is introduced to Valtor, leading to a boom in literacy and the spread of knowledge.

• 2E 0666T: The Obsidian Plateau Range experiences a major volcanic eruption, causing widespread devastation and loss of life.

• 2E 0825T: The first Valtorian university, the Academy of Limestone, is founded in the Limestone Plateau Range.

• 2E 1057T: The Basalt Canyon Range experiences a major flood, causing significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture.

• 2E 1234T: The Golden Forest Range experiences a major wildfire, destroying large swaths of forest and wildlife habitat.

• 2E 1375T: The Marble Cliff Range implements strict environmental protection laws to preserve its natural resources.

• 2E 1400T: The capital of Valtor is moved to an unincorporated Range near the center of Valtor called Ghoragad.

• 2E 1425T: The Limestone Plateau Range establishes the Valtorian Conservatory of Music and the Performing Arts, becoming a hub for music and theater in Valtor.

• 2E 1472T: The Onyx Forest Range experiences a period of economic decline, leading to increased poverty and social unrest.

• 2E 1500T: The Obsidian Plateau Range establishes a new trade agreement with the nation of Thalass, leading to increased prosperity and cultural exchange.

• 2E 1525T: The Basalt Canyon Range experiences a major drought, leading to a shortage of food and water.

• 2E 1540T: The Sandstone Ridge Range implements a new irrigation system, increasing crop yields and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

• 2E 1560T: The city-state of Slate Ridge experiences a major labor strike, as workers demand better wages and working conditions from the Range's Zenith.

• 2E 1565T: The Basalt Canyon Range experiences a series of earthquakes, causing significant damage to infrastructure and buildings.

• 2E 1570T: The Sandstone Ridge Range experiences a major outbreak of a deadly disease, leading to a quarantine and widespread panic.

• 2E 1575T: Kjell Basalt is elected as the new Speaker of the Summit of Zeniths, following the retirement of the previous Speaker, Maya Limestone. The election is met with mixed reactions from the various city-states and ranges of Valtor, with some expressing hope for change and others expressing skepticism and distrust. The future of Valtor hangs in the balance, as tensions between the Zeniths and the city-states continue to simmer and threaten to boil over into open conflict.

The Valtorian flag features a geometric tessellation of equilateral triangles in shades of red and black. The black triangles represent the mountainous terrain of Valtor, a symbol of the nation's strength and resilience. The red color evokes the Valtorian sense of independence and strength. The design is simple yet striking, embodying the straightforward and honest character of the Valtorian people while serving as a reminder that no Zenith is greater than any other.

Valtor is a decentralized nation, with over 1,000 Zeniths who each govern their own regional district, or Range. Each Zenith holds significant power and autonomy within their respective Ranges, and is responsible for making all decisions related to the operations of their district.

To ensure national coordination and collaboration, the Zeniths meet once a year at the capital city of Valtor, Ghoragorod, for the Summit of Zeniths. During this month-long meeting, the Zeniths discuss policy, address grievances, and approve national laws that all Zeniths agree to observe. Any business that is not conducted during the Summit must wait a full year or be negotiated with each Zenith at their respective Ranges.

The Summit of Zeniths is chaired by the Speaker of the Summit, who is responsible for ensuring that the meeting runs smoothly and efficiently, and that all necessary business is conducted within the allotted time frame. The Speaker of the Summit is elected at the start of every Summit, and is also responsible for conducting business on behalf of Valtor and the Zeniths throughout the rest of the year.

Despite the significant autonomy of the Zeniths within their Ranges, the role of the Speaker of the Summit helps to ensure that there is a consistent framework of national laws and policies that all Zeniths are expected to observe. The Speaker also works closely with other government bodies and civil society organizations to promote transparency and accountability, and to ensure that the needs of all Valtorians are being met in a fair and equitable manner.

Overall, the Valtorian system of government is designed to balance the need for local autonomy with the need for national coordination and consistency. The Zeniths play a critical role in providing essential services to their constituents and in contributing to the broader governance of the nation, while the Speaker of the Summit helps to ensure that there is a cohesive and effective system of government that meets the needs of all Valtorians.

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Mining is the dominant industry in Valtor, with tourism and agriculture also playing important roles in the economy. The fact that mining makes up such a large percentage of Valtor's economy highlights the importance of the nation's mineral resources and the expertise of the Valtorian people in extracting and processing these resources.

The tourism industry is also significant in Valtor, although it is heavily regulated and limited to certain areas of the nation. The fact that tourism makes up 15% of the economy suggests that there is still significant demand for travel to Valtor, despite the restrictions on tourism.

Agriculture is a smaller but still important part of the economy, with crops like potatoes and root vegetables being commonly grown. Livestock like goats and sheep also play a significant role in the local economy.

Finally, energy is a relatively small part of the economy, with hydroelectric power being the main source of energy generation in the nation. The fact that energy makes up only 5% of the economy suggests that Valtor is not a major player in the global energy market, but is able to meet its own energy needs through sustainable and responsible practices.

Overall, the breakdown of Valtor's economy highlights the importance of mining and the nation's mineral resources, as well as the potential for sustainable tourism and agriculture in the region. The key challenge for Valtor will be to continue to develop these industries in a way that respects the natural environment and the traditional way of life of the local people.

Crumaric Druids

Crumaric is a religion practiced by a small and mysterious group of Druids in the mountain ranges of Valtor. The practitioners of Crumaric are known to dress in long flowing robes of various earthy tones, adorned with intricate patterns and symbols of their faith. They are often seen wearing hoods and masks to obscure their faces, and they carry small satchels filled with various herbs and crystals.

Crumarite is the sacred and highly prized mineral that is the focus of the Crumaric faith. This rare and radioactive rock is said to have powerful healing properties, and the Druids believe it can be used for divination and to bring good luck. Crumarite appears as a dull, grey rock with a rough and porous surface. It is often found in large, irregular-shaped clusters and emits a faint blue glow when in contact with air. The rock is heavy and dense, with a metallic sheen that catches the light. Crumarite is highly coveted by Crumaric Druids for its mystical properties, which they believe can heal, divine, and even curse. Despite its potential danger, the allure of Crumarite has led to many conflicts and disputes between those seeking to harness its power.

The Crumaric Druids are known to have prolonged exposure to Crumarite, causing them to have a distinctive appearance. Their skin is pale and hardened, resembling stone, and their eyes are often described as glowing with an inner light.

Legends and Myths

Urban legends surround the Crumaric Druids and their abilities. It is said that they can heal the sick with a touch, see the future in visions, and curse those who cross them. Some believe that they can even control the elements, summoning storms and earthquakes to do their bidding.

Valtorians generally treat Druids with suspicion and distrust, as they are seen as a fringe element of society. Many Valtorians view Druids as backward and superstitious, and are often afraid of their powers and rituals. As a result, Druids are often marginalized and excluded from mainstream society, and are viewed as outcasts or even enemies. Some Valtorians may even go as far as to persecute or discriminate against Druids, seeing them as a threat to their way of life. However, there are also those who respect and revere the Druids, and see them as important spiritual leaders and healers.

They live in small, close-knit communities, and their religious practices are shrouded in secrecy. The hierarchy of the Crumaric faith is unknown, but it is said that the most powerful Druids hold great sway over the others, and their decisions are considered to be divinely inspired.