Yadena (pronounced yah-DEN-ah) has carved out a sizable territory for itself, supporting its operations through selling the odd drug-like fluids that seep out of ancient structures in the hills. The Cartel has a close relationship with Tarkuus, which provides resources and security in exchange for a cut of the profits.
Geography, flora, and fauna
TODO: Skymines
History
In the days of the Sangiran Empire, the territory of modern Yadena was once the northern frontier of Vothan. Even before the Empire's collapse, the area was rather unstable as imperial forces frequently struggled to maintain control of the largely undeveloped and unorganized land.
Though the liquid that seeps out of the Skymines was long known to local inhabitants, its properties remained obscure to the broader world. It was not until a group of alchemists arrived in the region in Y9586* that the fluid was extensively studied. Led by Otan Marala, Kenga Diir, Cantis Turo, and Olemedi Varhastlara, these researchers quickly realized its potential. The alchemists changed their focus from research of the fluid to its harvest, with the chief scholars remaining as leaders. Gradually, these figured came to be known first informally and then formally as the Four.
The impromptu cartel struggled initially, finding it difficult to sell openly with imperial control of Vothanite cities. When Vothan declared independence in Y9612*, the Four saw their chance. With their drug-derived wealth, they hired an army of mercenaries and announced to the world that the cities of Rockmouth, Raihad, and Anduri, as well as the surrounding lands, were theirs. In the midst of its own social and political upheaval, Vothan was unable to address its northern secessionists.
Since then, the cartel has thrived. Trade arrangements with Tarkuus have greatly lessened Yadenan reliance on Vothan, as the cartel is now free to transport its goods to the ports of Tarkuus and sell to the world. The cartel continues to maintain a large force of mercenaries, who are handsomely paid to ensure their loyalty. Though the individuals have died and been replaced in the centuries since, the Four continue to lead the Yadena Cartel.
Demographics
Yadena is primarily populated by humans, half-elves, nagaji, and tieflings. They are joined by significant populations of various other ancestries. The presence of the cartel's mercenaries have brought a highly diverse population to the region, many of which have chosen to remain once their contracts are complete.
Many of the nagaji inhabitants of Yadena oppose the cartel, though most of them do not dare to do so openly.
Culture
Government
Yadena is under the exclusive control of the Yadena Cartel. Though the cartel exercises absolute authority, by and large they have little interest in details of rule that do not affect their business. Cities and towns are governed by cartel-appointed leaders, who generally attempt to do little besides maintain order and compliance. The cartel's mercenary army is used both as border guards and as police, watching over their citizens to ensure the profits continue to flow.
The cartel itself is led by the Four. Each of the Four has a specific area of concern within the cartel; one is responsible for manufacturing the drug, another for its trade, and the others for security and research. Upon the death or retirement of one of the Four, the others nominate a successor for the open role. Relations between the Four swing widely, as they form alliances and negotiate arrangements to attain more personal power.
Economy
The cartel supports its operations by selling the liquid from the Skymines. Almost all trade occurs through Tarkuus, as neither Vothan nor the giants of Matarsah wish to involve themselves with the cartel. A highly profitable endeavor, the proceeds from this trade go entirely to enriching the cartel.
The common people are highly self-sufficient, mostly as a matter of necessity. The drug caravans transport little else, unless heavily bribed, and Vothan officially refuses to trade with anyone in Yadena. Nevertheless, items can always be smuggled between the two realms.