Strur Clen

Strur Clen’s narrow divide from the First World makes it an odd place. Time seems to move differently, and the folk inhabiting it are made strange by the influence of magics nearly forgotten. These same magics protect the borders from external threats, and as such there was no need for the high walls and large bustling cities their neighbors are more partial to. Clenfolk gather in settlements known as Circles; larger than tribes, but still loosely organized and not strictly defined.

Each Circle elects a representative to attend the Woad Council that sets the laws of the land. A Circle’s power in the council is based on its population, so war between Circles is a risky prospect, but typically results in a large upset in the power balance when it does happen.

Free travel between the Circles is allowed, but every traveller must bear some mark of their home Circle. Though some have renounced the Circle they came from and joined others permanently, it is highly discouraged and many Circles, typically smaller ones, will hunt down people that leave rather than allow another Circle to grow at their expense.

As mentioned above, conflict between Circles is a risky gamble, and the major circles typically maintain a rough equilibrium. If they do go to war, it is usually several Circles banding together to bring down one that has grown too large and risks upsetting the balance. This, in turn, leads to most Circles exercising some form of voluntary population control, rather than expanding to their heart’s content. While open war is rare, many Clenfolk die near the borders between circles in “hunting accidents” and the like.

Strur Clen is basically self sufficient, and is fully capable of feeding and supporting its population. Due to the region’s unique ecology, many kinds of rare herbs and magical plants thrive there, forming the bulk of their exports for international trade. Despite being rich in greenery, Strur Clen has very little in the way of ores and minerals, and as such never developed a tradition for metalworking. Apart from the druids that make their home in the Circles, most Clenfolk have at least some use for worked metal, and as such the country imports quite a bit of it from other lands.

Character Traits & Features
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