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|religions = Various ancestries, but plurality human
|religions = Various ancestries, but plurality human
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'''Metrya''' has revived the ancient [[Hellea|Hellean]] traditions of democracy, though the lingering inequality of this system has led to undercurrents that threaten this prosperous state. Traditional cottage industries in Metrya have begun to be replaced by centralized workshops.
'''Metrya''' has revived the ancient [[Hellea|Hellean]] traditions of democracy, though the lingering inequality of this system has led to undercurrents that threaten this prosperous state. Traditional cottage industries in Metrya have begun to be replaced by [[wikipedia:Industrial_Revolution|centralized workshops]].


== Geography, flora, and fauna ==
== Geography, flora, and fauna ==
Tirione stretches along the eastern coast of the Chaska Sea. Though a largely coastal state, Tirione also reaches into the arid highlands of the [[Banai Mountains]] that separates the temperate coast from the dry inland of the [[Taizzan Expanse]]. Tirione is warm but dry most of the year, with a cooler and wetter winter.
Metrya is located on the northern side of central Hellea, wedged between its neighbors of [[Ephardia]], [[Halakros]], [[Iaramnae]], and [[Magnia]]. The climate of the region is generally cooler than Hellea as a whole, with weather patterns off the Sentinel Peaks a strong influence on precipitation and temperature.  


Once the domain of wide-ranging cedar forests for which the region is famous, millenia of use has seen these forests reduced greatly, largely replaced with farmland or pastureland. Once the economic centerpiece of Tirione, these trees still hold great cultural significance. Certain cedar groves also serve as homes to a unique type of treant that closely resembles these trees.
The [[Twin Lakes]] lie in the center of Metrya. Though technically one lake with a five to eight mile wide strait in the middle, they are generally considered separate bodies of water. The lakes do not have official names and are usually referred to by their cardinal directions (the Western Lake and the Eastern Lake). Both lakes are fed by innumerable rivers - most are small, though the [[Tyria River]], originating in the [[Greenwall]], and the [[Evros River]], beginning in the [[Sentinel Peaks]], carry great amounts of water during seasonal melts. The [[Peiros River]] is the sole outlet from the Twin Lakes, connecting the interior bodies of water to the [[Sea of Ersas]] to the east via a winding route.


Large herds of goats roam the highlands, well suited to the arid landscape and protected from beasts by attentive shepherds. Although merely legends for a long time, shepherds now know to be watchful for chupacabras that will pick off their weaker animals. Even in the cities, parents try to scare their children into behaving by telling them a chupacabra will carry them off if they don’t.  
Lycanthropes and vampires reportedly have negative reactions to the water of the Evros River. Some suspect this to be the result of particulate silver carried south from the ore-rich mountains.


Besides vermin, birds, and anything escaped from captivity, the densely settled coastal region of Tirione has a sparse presence of non-aquatic wild animals. Farther inland, travelers are recommended to be wary, as there are many creatures, both large and small, that are well adapted to life in the dry highlands. From small solifugids, to lions, to ankhegs and the dreaded ankhravs, many dangers await the unready. A host of non-predatory wildlife also roams the lands.
The Metryan landscape primarily consists of hilly plains and forests. Around the Twin Lakes in particular the natural landscape has been replaced with extensive farms, with less development the further one travels away from the center of Metrya.  


A small number of blue dragons reside on the eastern side of the Banai Mountains. Most travelers are warned from visiting these regions, as the dragons are highly territorial and unlikely to be reasoned with.
Metryan forests are primarily comprised of oaks, spruces, beeches, and black pines. Plains are not only grasses but also small bushes and a large variety of flowering plants - in the springs, the grasslands bloom into fields of many colors.


== History ==
A wide range of animals live in Metrya, including kri-kri, badgers, lions, lynx, wolves, otters, weasels, deer, and chamois. Birds such as falcons, eagles, and vultures are common as well. Wildlife is less common in the heavily urbanized areas around the Twin Lakes.
The cities within Tirione have existed for millennia, and the Tirione Republic itself has weathered many centuries as well.


=== Prehistory ===
Though less common in Metrya than in neighboring Halakros, griffons live in the wilds of the region. Some even train these creatures, though as they are intelligent and value loyalty highly, some find it better to gain their friendship instead.
The lands that now comprise Tirione have been inhabited since ancient times. Though a great number of places make this claim, many scholars believe the region to be the birthplace of the human population of the world.


=== City-state period - Y2100 (approx) to Y4000 (approx) ===
Catoblepas are occasionally reported in the forests around the southwestern cities of Araplos and Arkesine. These creatures do not commonly cross the border from the less-developed western side of Halakros, but when they do it is cause for concern.  
Previously disparate small cities and towns, political unification began in the region in this period, a shifting alliance of city states and minor petty kingdoms.


=== Vivras and the Eastern Crusade - Y4031 to Y4100 (approx) ===
Similarly, chimeras sometimes venture farther from their dens in the Greenwall into Metrya. These terrifying and evil creatures are not as intelligent as commonly believed, but regardless are highly dangerous.
In Y4031, [[Vivras the Animator]], a powerful necromancer, took control of [[Anaharath]], a city north of Tirione. After consolidating power, she began an unholy crusade against the other polities in the region, quickly conquering south to [[Arwad]] and [[Gath Padalla]], north up to the [[River Qes]], and east to the frontier of the [[Arrajan Wilds]].  


After years of study and terrible deeds, in Y4040 Vivras succeeded in her goal of attaining lichdom. Powers around the Chaska began to take notice and draft plans to defeat the new evil. The Eastern Crusade began in Y4046 as a direct result, a coalition between [[Thadria|Thadrian]] and [[Hellea|Hellean]] states alongside a variety of religious orders. Though slow and extremely costly, the crusaders were eventually successful in pushing the necromancer back to her capital in Anaharath. In the final battle outside the city in Y4052, half the remaining allied crusader force was flash-petrified, where they remain outside of the city today at the [[Field of the Victorious]]. With her phylactery destroyed and scattered, the body of Vivras was entombed and warded deep below Anaharath to seal it away, where she remains today. Tirione took centuries to recover from these wars.
Highly reclusive, hippalektryons are known to live in the northern hilly landscape, including across the border with Magnia. Little is known about these half-horse, half-rooster creatures, but they are generally thought of with reverence and treated respectfully by Metryan culture.
 
=== Kingdom period - Y4624 to Y6460 ===
The Kingdom of Tirione was formed in Y4624, initially including just the cities of Tirione and [[Karka]] as well as the outlying area, but soon through conquest encompassing the entire modern state of Tirione as well as [[Sarepta]] and [[Rusadir]].
 
The kingdom persevered for a remarkably long time, until collapsing in Y6460 due to a sustained period of instability prompted by long-lasting droughts. A brief power struggle commenced between royalist and republican factions with an eventual republican victory. The modern state of Tirione was proclaimed in Y6490.
 
=== Modern period - Y6460 to present ===
Facing economic decline from its rapidly disappearing forests and natural resources, as well as more competition for control of trade in the Chaska Sea from the resurgent [[Kingdom of Eretrebus]], Tirione began to look to the far coast of the sea to reverse its faltering fortunes. The colonial system began in Y6527 with the takeover of what would become [[Nionegrast]].


== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
Tirione is primarily human, with sizable halfling, half-elf, and half-orc minorities. There is also an unusually large oread population. Due to the importance of Tirione’s ports for trade within the Chaska, visitors and permanent inhabitants of most races can be found as well.
Metrya is quite cosmopolitan, with individuals of a great many ancestries calling the region home. Humans, half-elves, elves, dwarfs, aasimar, tieflings, and sylphs account for most but not all of Metrya’s population. Though few in number, a handful of centaurs have integrated into Metryan society and often serve as statesmen.


== Culture ==
== Culture ==
The inhabitants of Tirione mostly follow the common pantheon, with a particularly strong focus on Abadar and Gozreh. Large temples to both gods exist in the city of Tirione, and more temples to both (as well as to their peers) are found throughout the country. The large merchant class of Tirione is particularly devoted to Abadar, following the god’s tenets in hopes of greater rewards and business opportunities. Meanwhile, Gozreh is worshiped by those that sail from Tirione, who pray to the deity for safe travels. Small shrines to deities of foreign pantheons can be found in Tirionite cities as well, visited primarily by travelers from other lands. Additionally, Milani has a small following in the region who primarily concern themselves with the fair treatment of the colonies.
{{MoreHellea}}
 
The culture of Tirione holds the native cedar forests in great esteem. Many of the oldest tales and legends in Tirionite folklore take place in the cedar groves, and they are viewed almost with reverence. Despite this, the forests are a pale shadow of their former extant, having been cut down for material and profit. Today much of the remaining forests are protected by the Libani Order of druids, who tend to the remaining ancient groves, encourage new growth, and protect the trees from those who wish to cut them down.
 
Among other holidays, Firstbloom, on the vernal equinox, is widely celebrated in Tirione with festivals, feasts, and offerings. A tradition inherited from followers of Gozreh, this holy day has become celebrated by all in Tirione.


Though [[Telan]] is the native language of the region, and nearly all Tirionites are fluent in it, the country is very multilingual - an inevitable result of being the nexus of trade through the Chaska. Usage of [[Common]] is very prevalent to bridge language gaps, though travelers through the streets of Tirione will encounter people speaking in all manner of tongues, finding shared languages where possible. Tirionite halflings frequently speak their racial tongue as their primary language as well. Signs in the cities of Tirione are frequently written in multiple languages - nearly always Telan and Halfling, with other languages depending on the particular location.
Like elsewhere in Hellea, the hero-gods play a prominent role in Metryan religion. The region’s high population and development means that when hero-gods seek servants to further their goals, they frequently turn to the cities of Metrya. One hero-god, [[Kynos]], resides within the Metryan capital, and many of his itinerant clerics can be found across the region’s cities.


Tirione has an outsized merchant class, who make their living shipping and trading all across the seas. Within the cities, most work as laborers of some description, particularly as longshoremen. A significant bloc of craftspeople also make their living supporting the city populations and visitors. In the interior, traditional agricultural roles remain common, especially shepherds. The city of Karka is renowned for its apothecaries and those who run them, with many ships stopping by this city particularly to pay these shops a visit.
Aside from the hero-gods, the people of Metrya also follow the gods of the common pantheon. Abadar, Desna, and Sarenrae are particularly popular, as are Pharasma and Calistria to lesser degrees. Major cities usually have large religious districts, home to monumental temples and those that serve within them.  


Among other crops, Tirionite farmers commonly grow legumes such as chickpeas and lentils, grains such as wheat and barley, and a large variety of vegetables. Eggplants, beans, tomatoes, and garlic are grown widely. Nuts and fruits are cultivated as well. Goats and sheep are, by a significant margin, the most common livestock, with cattle and poultry kept to a lesser degree. Some spices and herbs are grown locally, such as anise and parsley, while many others are imported.
The people of Metrya have a strong culture of festivals, celebrating anything from historical events, holy days, or just to have fun. Many festivals are state-sponsored and funded, as long as they can gain approval (which generally means the organizers refrain from public criticism of prominent philosopher politicians). Those that are not state-sponsored are still legal and tolerated, but generally smaller and less lavish as they must rely on private funding instead.


Tirionite cuisine is heavily based around fish, goat, dairy, grains, and legumes. Regardless of social status, these ingredients are available at low cost to all citizens - due in large part to state subsidies. Class distinctions arise mostly in spices and seasonings, with more expensive flavorings gracing the tables of the wealthy. Olives are heavily used in Tirionite cuisine but are mostly imported from Hellea.
[[Hellean]] is by far the most frequently spoken language in Metrya, followed by [[Common]]. Racial languages, especially Elven and Dwarven, are also widespread. Regional languages of elsewhere can be heard widely in the major cities of Metrya, as they are generally useful considering the high populations of immigrants and heavy economic activity of the region.


Besides typical subsistence fare, inn- and tavern-goers in Tirione are likely to encounter some of the following well known dishes:
Black-figure pottery is an art form with a long history in Metrya. Leaving behind realistic depictions in favor of stylistic elements, this type of decoration is used not just for formal art pieces but also for pottery that sees every-day use. Liquid or loose trade goods from Metrya, those that are shipped in pithoi, can be easily identified by the decoration on their containers.
* Goat kebabs
* Parsley, olive, chickpea, and lemon salads
* Goat and green beans over rice
* Boiled sheep’s head
* Chickpeas, lentils and rice in spicy tomato sauce
* [[wikipedia:Arak_(drink)|Anise-flavored moonshine]]


Tirionite architecture tends to favor stone brick and timber construction, usually with roofs made of thatch in the interior or lead in the cities. A simple yet refined architectural style, this type of construction has been done for many centuries in the region. Many travellers to Tirione remark on the large row houses in the areas of cities inhabited by the merchant class, often up to four stories tall with small fenced gardens in both front and back.  
The art of oration is a longstanding tradition in Metrya, as it is in much of Hellea. In addition to the common forms of oratory, satire is a popular art form in Metrya. Satire is used both for entertainment, as a way of humorously mocking public figures, and also as a political tool. Metryan politicians frequently employ satirists to write and perform works critical of their opponents, or even write satirical plays themselves. Many satirists incorporate minor magical tricks into their works to enhance the effect. There are even a handful of oratory schools in major Metryan cities that specialize in teaching this style.


The population of Tirione is heavily urban, primarily concentrated in the coastal cities. Inland cities have seen slow emigration towards the west for a long time, as prospects lessen in the interior. The rural population in particular is remarkably small and low density. This relatively small number of farmers does not grow nearly enough food to support Tirione’s citizenry, and the state relies heavily on imports. Many of the younger generations have given up entirely on rural life, driven by inconsistent harvests and persistent ankheg infestations.
Quite similar to elsewhere in Hellea, Metryan architecture takes a variety of forms, depending on the purpose of the building. Most immediately striking are the palaces and temples, with their tall marble columns, grand arches, gabled roofs, and detailed reliefs carved in the walls. More mundane buildings are usually built of stone, brick, and stucco. Whether buildings are ceremonial or domestic, Hellean architecture emphasizes open space - tall hallways, paths, and courtyards are all common. Floors, at least for those who can afford them, are usually made of polished stone or mosaics. These mosaics generally depict something related to the purpose of the building. An apothecary’s shop, for example, might have a mosaic showing plants sold there or the owner of the shop tending to them.


Unusual for states in the region, Tirione has instituted a form of conscription. Though the state has not been to war for centuries, and makes every effort to avoid conflicts in the belief they are bad for prosperous trade, there remains a prevalent belief that it is in the best interest to maintain a method of defending the merchant navy. All families are required to send one child, upon reaching adulthood, to train as part of the navy for three years. At the end of this period, the individual leaves active service but will remain in the reserve for the next twenty years. Usually the firstborn child takes this responsibility, but this can be waived for any number of reasons (medical reasons, already being part of a merchant crew, joining a monastery, etc). This required service is entirely waived for rural populations, and the exceptions so broad that it is easy to find a way to avoid being conscripted, should one desire.
Metrya contains some of the oldest still-standing examples of ancient Hellean architecture, many of which remain in use. Metryan temples in particular tend to be quite old, as even when damaged or destroyed they are rebuilt using as much of the original material and design as possible.


The most distinctive characteristic of Tirionite music is its use of the [[wikipedia:Nevel_(instrument)|nevel]], a unique form of frame harp. Most Tirionite bards use this instrument, or variants upon it. The nevel is considered an instrument for the music of the upper class - it is common to hear musicians play it at fancy parties or religious events, but not in a common tavern.
Metyran cuisine tends to make heavy use of fish, as most major population centers are on the Twin Lakes or the surrounding rivers. The region is somewhat colder than Hellea as a whole, so the crops grown in Metrya are generally those better suited to more seasonality.


The works of Tirionite potters and glassblowers are known throughout the world. Their finished goods are not only exquisitely well-made, but also artistically decorated with depictions of animals, magical creatures, and holy symbols.  
While many in Metrya continue to farm and work in cottage industries as has been the norm for centuries, some wealthy and enterprising types have begun to pioneer new methods of producing goods. Rather than seek out the skills of trained and skilled craftspeople, these individuals instead hire large numbers of laborers and employ them in a wage labor relationship in workshops, setting them to task mass producing various goods. Though their finished goods are rarely on the level of what a skilled individual could produce, this arrangement results in a vastly increased level of production. The side effects of this new shift have only exacerbated the social issues and latent discontent in Metrya, and some disgruntled citizens have begun to take action...


Most travel within Tirione is by way of the extensive and mostly well-maintained road system of the region. Carriages and wagons can reliably travel between the major cities and towns without running into dangerous creatures or damaged stretches of road that are difficult to pass. Farther inland, the road system becomes rather more unreliable.
The core Metryan lands around the Twin Lakes are densely populated and heavily urbanized. Cities that dot the shore are quite large and slowly but continually growing outwards, subsuming smaller towns that had grown up near the former outskirts. The Metryan population becomes more diffuse away from the lakes - though there are certainly large cities away from these bodies of water, they are less common and most people there live in small towns.


Tirione has relatively high levels of population growth, partially as a result of immigration from other regions. At the same time, a steady stream of people leave for the colonies. By and large, however, those that depart are the lower classes who are in search of better employment and living conditions elsewhere (whether or not they actually find that) while those who arrive are mostly wealthier merchants or the like.
Travel in Metrya is primarily undertaken by way of the many rivers that feed into the Twin Lakes. Nearly all the major population centers are along these rivers, so most travel in Metrya is quite convenient. Roads around the shores of the Twin Lakes are usually well-maintained and safe to travel, but this becomes less the case if travelling around the border regions of Metrya.


The [[Apsium Magical Institute]] in Tirzah is one of the foremost centers of magical learning in the world, and is especially prestigious among mages around the Chaska Sea. The Institute has cemented Tirione’s reputation as a desirable place to live if one is interested in the magical arts.
Metrya is a major destination for immigrants arriving both from elsewhere in Hellea and from farther afield. Though it arguably does not fulfill its lofty promises of democracy, many are drawn to the region by the lure of an equal and fair society, and by the plentiful (though frequently poorly paying) jobs in the industrious workshops. Alongside the influx of population, those wishing to travel the [[Asterian Trail]] sometimes arrive at its southern terminus after first crossing Hellea through Metrya.


Basic levels of education are easily accessible to all in Tirione, as schools are funded by the state and are free to attend. Higher levels require the attendee to pay, though large numbers of Tirionites achieve higher levels of education regardless. Basic education focuses on subjects like mathematics and literacy, while higher education emphasizes oration, history, and related topics. Literacy races are generally high in Tirione.
Bards are disproportionately common in Metrya, in particular those that fuse their magic with their oratory skills. These bards use their spells to aid their speaking abilities in convincing others of their views, riling up crowds, or performing in other contexts. In Metryan politics, however, use of any kind of magic that would aid in political efforts is strictly prohibited - this ban was instituted after politicians began using spells like mass suggestion to “convince” others to vote their way. However, the exact wording of the ban is somewhat vague, and some try to find ways to skirt this prohibition.


Races are especially common sporting activities in Tirione. Using chariots pulled by horses or more exotic creatures, races are team events - betting is widespread, especially if one has a preferred team. Teams are often sponsored as well, usually by wealthy individuals, cities, or companies. Sometimes these bets and sponsorships result in fans (or teams themselves) sabotaging other teams in various ways - though completely against the rules of the sport, this behavior is widespread regardless. Winning a race not only brings wealth but also a great deal of prestige.
Metryan cities are home to a number of notable and prestigious universities, where one can obtain a higher education in many advanced fields. Despite this, basic educational institutions in Metrya are rather lacking. Schools are usually run by temples and are overwhelmingly focused on religious education. Literacy rates are very high among the Metryan upper classes, but less so among the common people.


Tirionite clothing primarily centers around simple tunics and robes, similar in style to the clothing of Khapesh and Ashurayu. Among the common people clothing is usually sparsely decorated or ornamented, while both are far more widespread among the upper class. Most clothes are made of linen or cotton and dyed in various colors. Purple is especially popular among the upper class.
Rather unusually, the higher ranks in the Metryan military are elective. Strategoi, the generals of Metrya, are not promoted from the ranks but are rather voted into their positions by the populace. As such, it is not unusual for strategoi to have no military experience, though most are politicians with considerable leadership abilities. This elective nature does not apply to the lower ranks of officers, who are promoted in a more conventional style.


== Government ==
== Government ==
Within the metropole, Tirione’s government is a representative democracy. The country is divided into thirty districts, each of which elects three delegates via a ranked system to the parliament, referred to as the National Assembly. The Assembly is vested with the ability to draft, enact, and enforce legislation. There is no executive role in Tirione’s government, though the leading coalition of the Assembly appoints a delegate, known as the Master of the Assembly, to serve as speaker and leader of internal actions. Rather than a judicial system, Tirione relies upon district councils to arbitrate disputes and interpret the law as necessary.
Though an oligarchy for much of its history, within the last two hundred years Metrya has begun to re-institute the pre-Eurykratian Hellean traditions of direct democracy. While this has had some success, lingering inequalities continue to cause discontent.


Delegates serve in five year terms. Due to the complexity and size of elections, results are generally only known a year after voting begins.
Though a direct democracy, Meytra imposes stringent requirements that must be met before one is allowed to vote. Specifically, suffrage is only extended to those who own at least five acres of land and can prove their family’s residence in Metrya for at least five generations. This excludes the region’s sizable immigrant population, as well as much of the lower classes who do not have the sort of documentation that must be presented. Individuals of longer-living races are also at a distinct disadvantage. As a result, those that vote in Metryan elections are far fewer in number than the population as a whole, and are by and large predominantly wealthy and human.


Districts in parliament are redrawn as necessary every thirty years, to ensure a roughly equal population between them. To facilitate this, a detailed census is kept. This population based system means that districts can be quite lopsided in land area - for example, district 1 encompasses only the North Waterside and Stormguard neighborhoods of the city of Tirione, while district 27 consists of much of the northeast part of the state.
Metryan administrators have continually promised to overhaul and rectify this system, but have failed to do so thus far.


Tirione is currently led by the 102nd Assembly, which includes the following parties:
Assemblies convene regularly in Metryan cities, where citizens can vote on issues that have been raised. Local elections are simply resolved in the city they are held, but region-wide elections are somewhat more complicated. After each assembly meets and votes, the votes are then taken to the capital city of Metrya, where they are publicly tallied for decisions to be declared and actions to be implemented. All Metryan assemblies are public affairs - votes are never secret. Voting is usually preceded by speeches where advocates of differing positions attempt to make their case.


* Western Seas Alliance (55 assembly members)
Assemblies take place in local amphitheaters, which are usually outdoor structures that also serve as gathering places for festivals, entertainers, and other special occasions.
** Drawing its support from the merchants guilds and the urban population, the Western Seas Alliance seeks to further Tirione’s control over Chaskan trade. The party also advocates for expanded colonial endeavors, both in “uninhabited” regions and by taking over existing settlements. It is widely understood that the party controls elections by bribery, giving out favors and promising local developments unrelated to its agenda if the party’s delegates are elected. The party’s continued strong presence in the Assembly has thwarted any attempt to end this practice.
* Agricultural Unionist Party (11 assembly members)
** The AUP’s delegates almost entirely come from the highlands regions of Tirione, where they focus on projects that encourage local development of rural regions versus colonial growth. The sole exception is Zuranna Arannal from district 8 (east side of Tirzah), who was elected in an odd protest vote situation in an urban district.
* Tirione Restoration Party (4 assembly members)
** The Restoration Party views the independent city states to the north and south as being rightfully part of Tirione, on the bases of the ancient political union, and advocates for this kingdom to be reformed - diplomatically or militarily.
* Movement for Separation (3 assembly members)
** Not all in Tirione are supportive of the nation’s colonial endeavors. The inhabitants of the interior city of Ras Shamra in particular have become increasingly opposed to what they see as unfair advantages given to the merchants based in the coastal cities; the MFS represents this discontent, and pushes (essentially completely ineffectively, given their number) for an end to Tirione’s colonial system.
* Magical Dominion Party (1 assembly member)
** The Magical Dominion Party, represented only by Zisinma Lagalu, delegate from district 8 (Tirzah South), is a single issue party that believes all delegates in Tirionite politics should be required to have magical abilities - the justification being that this would give them increased insights and better judgement. The party is supported by the Apsium Magical Institute in Tirzah, from which it draws almost all its votes.
* Independent delegates (16 assembly members)
** Independent members of the Assembly do not formally associate with any political party, though frequently align with one or more based on shared interests. These delegates hail from districts across Tirione.


Tirione’s administration of its colonies is quite different from its internal governance. Though this varies by colony, it tends towards the dictatorial - the Assembly in Tirione determines how the colonies are to be run, and colonies generally do not enjoy the representative politics of the metropole.
Assemblies are organized and led by directly elected representatives of each city.


== Economy ==
== Economy ==
While previously centered around its own natural resources, today Tirione’s economy is heavily built off the backs of its colonies, with which it has a generally quite extractive relationship. Raw resources and finished goods are shipped in from the colonies, where they are then sold by Tirionite merchants throughout the Chaska and beyond. Tirione is one of the dominant maritime merchant powers, and frequently closely involves its military navy to assist its merchant fleet.
The Metryan economy is relatively well-developed, primarily centering around the production of goods from imported raw materials. In the cities around the Twin Lakes, cottage industries have begun to give way to workshop-style facilities with wage labor.  


Agriculture of course remains significant within Tirione, but has by this point shifted to focus on purely supporting its own inhabitants rather than for profit motives.
Though Metrya produces food, timber, and other raw materials, it by and large does not export these directly. The major exception to this is silver from the mines around the northern city of Koulas, which play a significant role in the wealth of the region.


== Relations ==
Most Metryan imports and exports come and go by way of the Peiros River. While geographically a convenient and easily navigable route to the coast, emptying into the Sea of Ersas, trade ships must pass through three other regions to reach their destinations. Karnosea welcomes Metryan trade, and the Halakran barons and dukes generally pay little attention to the travellers. The Iaramnaen generals, however, are keenly aware of the valuable items passing through their lands, and frequently levy high tolls. As a result, some Metryan merchants seek out other routes - even if longer and more expensive in travel costs, it is sometimes worth it.
Tirione is one of the few surface states surrounding the Chaska Sea to have official diplomatic relations with the underwater cities and kingdoms. Though normally rather xenophobic in nature, Tirione has managed to curry enough favor with most underwater polities to at least cause them to be open to discussions. Tirione uses these relationships to the advantage of its merchant fleet, frequently creating deals with powerful undersea spellcasters to ensure calm waters (or to blow the fleets of its competitors off course).


{{CitiesMetrya}}
{{CitiesMetrya}}

Revision as of 20:29, 23 January 2022

Metrya has revived the ancient Hellean traditions of democracy, though the lingering inequality of this system has led to undercurrents that threaten this prosperous state. Traditional cottage industries in Metrya have begun to be replaced by centralized workshops.

Geography, flora, and fauna

Metrya is located on the northern side of central Hellea, wedged between its neighbors of Ephardia, Halakros, Iaramnae, and Magnia. The climate of the region is generally cooler than Hellea as a whole, with weather patterns off the Sentinel Peaks a strong influence on precipitation and temperature.

The Twin Lakes lie in the center of Metrya. Though technically one lake with a five to eight mile wide strait in the middle, they are generally considered separate bodies of water. The lakes do not have official names and are usually referred to by their cardinal directions (the Western Lake and the Eastern Lake). Both lakes are fed by innumerable rivers - most are small, though the Tyria River, originating in the Greenwall, and the Evros River, beginning in the Sentinel Peaks, carry great amounts of water during seasonal melts. The Peiros River is the sole outlet from the Twin Lakes, connecting the interior bodies of water to the Sea of Ersas to the east via a winding route.

Lycanthropes and vampires reportedly have negative reactions to the water of the Evros River. Some suspect this to be the result of particulate silver carried south from the ore-rich mountains.

The Metryan landscape primarily consists of hilly plains and forests. Around the Twin Lakes in particular the natural landscape has been replaced with extensive farms, with less development the further one travels away from the center of Metrya.

Metryan forests are primarily comprised of oaks, spruces, beeches, and black pines. Plains are not only grasses but also small bushes and a large variety of flowering plants - in the springs, the grasslands bloom into fields of many colors.

A wide range of animals live in Metrya, including kri-kri, badgers, lions, lynx, wolves, otters, weasels, deer, and chamois. Birds such as falcons, eagles, and vultures are common as well. Wildlife is less common in the heavily urbanized areas around the Twin Lakes.

Though less common in Metrya than in neighboring Halakros, griffons live in the wilds of the region. Some even train these creatures, though as they are intelligent and value loyalty highly, some find it better to gain their friendship instead.

Catoblepas are occasionally reported in the forests around the southwestern cities of Araplos and Arkesine. These creatures do not commonly cross the border from the less-developed western side of Halakros, but when they do it is cause for concern.

Similarly, chimeras sometimes venture farther from their dens in the Greenwall into Metrya. These terrifying and evil creatures are not as intelligent as commonly believed, but regardless are highly dangerous.

Highly reclusive, hippalektryons are known to live in the northern hilly landscape, including across the border with Magnia. Little is known about these half-horse, half-rooster creatures, but they are generally thought of with reverence and treated respectfully by Metryan culture.

Demographics

Metrya is quite cosmopolitan, with individuals of a great many ancestries calling the region home. Humans, half-elves, elves, dwarfs, aasimar, tieflings, and sylphs account for most but not all of Metrya’s population. Though few in number, a handful of centaurs have integrated into Metryan society and often serve as statesmen.

Culture

See Hellea for more information on culture, geography, and history that is common to the nations of the peninsula.

Like elsewhere in Hellea, the hero-gods play a prominent role in Metryan religion. The region’s high population and development means that when hero-gods seek servants to further their goals, they frequently turn to the cities of Metrya. One hero-god, Kynos, resides within the Metryan capital, and many of his itinerant clerics can be found across the region’s cities.

Aside from the hero-gods, the people of Metrya also follow the gods of the common pantheon. Abadar, Desna, and Sarenrae are particularly popular, as are Pharasma and Calistria to lesser degrees. Major cities usually have large religious districts, home to monumental temples and those that serve within them.

The people of Metrya have a strong culture of festivals, celebrating anything from historical events, holy days, or just to have fun. Many festivals are state-sponsored and funded, as long as they can gain approval (which generally means the organizers refrain from public criticism of prominent philosopher politicians). Those that are not state-sponsored are still legal and tolerated, but generally smaller and less lavish as they must rely on private funding instead.

Hellean is by far the most frequently spoken language in Metrya, followed by Common. Racial languages, especially Elven and Dwarven, are also widespread. Regional languages of elsewhere can be heard widely in the major cities of Metrya, as they are generally useful considering the high populations of immigrants and heavy economic activity of the region.

Black-figure pottery is an art form with a long history in Metrya. Leaving behind realistic depictions in favor of stylistic elements, this type of decoration is used not just for formal art pieces but also for pottery that sees every-day use. Liquid or loose trade goods from Metrya, those that are shipped in pithoi, can be easily identified by the decoration on their containers.

The art of oration is a longstanding tradition in Metrya, as it is in much of Hellea. In addition to the common forms of oratory, satire is a popular art form in Metrya. Satire is used both for entertainment, as a way of humorously mocking public figures, and also as a political tool. Metryan politicians frequently employ satirists to write and perform works critical of their opponents, or even write satirical plays themselves. Many satirists incorporate minor magical tricks into their works to enhance the effect. There are even a handful of oratory schools in major Metryan cities that specialize in teaching this style.

Quite similar to elsewhere in Hellea, Metryan architecture takes a variety of forms, depending on the purpose of the building. Most immediately striking are the palaces and temples, with their tall marble columns, grand arches, gabled roofs, and detailed reliefs carved in the walls. More mundane buildings are usually built of stone, brick, and stucco. Whether buildings are ceremonial or domestic, Hellean architecture emphasizes open space - tall hallways, paths, and courtyards are all common. Floors, at least for those who can afford them, are usually made of polished stone or mosaics. These mosaics generally depict something related to the purpose of the building. An apothecary’s shop, for example, might have a mosaic showing plants sold there or the owner of the shop tending to them.

Metrya contains some of the oldest still-standing examples of ancient Hellean architecture, many of which remain in use. Metryan temples in particular tend to be quite old, as even when damaged or destroyed they are rebuilt using as much of the original material and design as possible.

Metyran cuisine tends to make heavy use of fish, as most major population centers are on the Twin Lakes or the surrounding rivers. The region is somewhat colder than Hellea as a whole, so the crops grown in Metrya are generally those better suited to more seasonality.

While many in Metrya continue to farm and work in cottage industries as has been the norm for centuries, some wealthy and enterprising types have begun to pioneer new methods of producing goods. Rather than seek out the skills of trained and skilled craftspeople, these individuals instead hire large numbers of laborers and employ them in a wage labor relationship in workshops, setting them to task mass producing various goods. Though their finished goods are rarely on the level of what a skilled individual could produce, this arrangement results in a vastly increased level of production. The side effects of this new shift have only exacerbated the social issues and latent discontent in Metrya, and some disgruntled citizens have begun to take action...

The core Metryan lands around the Twin Lakes are densely populated and heavily urbanized. Cities that dot the shore are quite large and slowly but continually growing outwards, subsuming smaller towns that had grown up near the former outskirts. The Metryan population becomes more diffuse away from the lakes - though there are certainly large cities away from these bodies of water, they are less common and most people there live in small towns.

Travel in Metrya is primarily undertaken by way of the many rivers that feed into the Twin Lakes. Nearly all the major population centers are along these rivers, so most travel in Metrya is quite convenient. Roads around the shores of the Twin Lakes are usually well-maintained and safe to travel, but this becomes less the case if travelling around the border regions of Metrya.

Metrya is a major destination for immigrants arriving both from elsewhere in Hellea and from farther afield. Though it arguably does not fulfill its lofty promises of democracy, many are drawn to the region by the lure of an equal and fair society, and by the plentiful (though frequently poorly paying) jobs in the industrious workshops. Alongside the influx of population, those wishing to travel the Asterian Trail sometimes arrive at its southern terminus after first crossing Hellea through Metrya.

Bards are disproportionately common in Metrya, in particular those that fuse their magic with their oratory skills. These bards use their spells to aid their speaking abilities in convincing others of their views, riling up crowds, or performing in other contexts. In Metryan politics, however, use of any kind of magic that would aid in political efforts is strictly prohibited - this ban was instituted after politicians began using spells like mass suggestion to “convince” others to vote their way. However, the exact wording of the ban is somewhat vague, and some try to find ways to skirt this prohibition.

Metryan cities are home to a number of notable and prestigious universities, where one can obtain a higher education in many advanced fields. Despite this, basic educational institutions in Metrya are rather lacking. Schools are usually run by temples and are overwhelmingly focused on religious education. Literacy rates are very high among the Metryan upper classes, but less so among the common people.

Rather unusually, the higher ranks in the Metryan military are elective. Strategoi, the generals of Metrya, are not promoted from the ranks but are rather voted into their positions by the populace. As such, it is not unusual for strategoi to have no military experience, though most are politicians with considerable leadership abilities. This elective nature does not apply to the lower ranks of officers, who are promoted in a more conventional style.

Government

Though an oligarchy for much of its history, within the last two hundred years Metrya has begun to re-institute the pre-Eurykratian Hellean traditions of direct democracy. While this has had some success, lingering inequalities continue to cause discontent.

Though a direct democracy, Meytra imposes stringent requirements that must be met before one is allowed to vote. Specifically, suffrage is only extended to those who own at least five acres of land and can prove their family’s residence in Metrya for at least five generations. This excludes the region’s sizable immigrant population, as well as much of the lower classes who do not have the sort of documentation that must be presented. Individuals of longer-living races are also at a distinct disadvantage. As a result, those that vote in Metryan elections are far fewer in number than the population as a whole, and are by and large predominantly wealthy and human.

Metryan administrators have continually promised to overhaul and rectify this system, but have failed to do so thus far.

Assemblies convene regularly in Metryan cities, where citizens can vote on issues that have been raised. Local elections are simply resolved in the city they are held, but region-wide elections are somewhat more complicated. After each assembly meets and votes, the votes are then taken to the capital city of Metrya, where they are publicly tallied for decisions to be declared and actions to be implemented. All Metryan assemblies are public affairs - votes are never secret. Voting is usually preceded by speeches where advocates of differing positions attempt to make their case.

Assemblies take place in local amphitheaters, which are usually outdoor structures that also serve as gathering places for festivals, entertainers, and other special occasions.

Assemblies are organized and led by directly elected representatives of each city.

Economy

The Metryan economy is relatively well-developed, primarily centering around the production of goods from imported raw materials. In the cities around the Twin Lakes, cottage industries have begun to give way to workshop-style facilities with wage labor.

Though Metrya produces food, timber, and other raw materials, it by and large does not export these directly. The major exception to this is silver from the mines around the northern city of Koulas, which play a significant role in the wealth of the region.

Most Metryan imports and exports come and go by way of the Peiros River. While geographically a convenient and easily navigable route to the coast, emptying into the Sea of Ersas, trade ships must pass through three other regions to reach their destinations. Karnosea welcomes Metryan trade, and the Halakran barons and dukes generally pay little attention to the travellers. The Iaramnaen generals, however, are keenly aware of the valuable items passing through their lands, and frequently levy high tolls. As a result, some Metryan merchants seek out other routes - even if longer and more expensive in travel costs, it is sometimes worth it.

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