Sieglein, one of the many city-states on the northern coast. Much more hospitable compared to the barren badlands of the inland areas. Though the state was powerful, there was no doubt that it had its opponents. In fact, it commonly found its borders tested by the surrounding nations, who vied for dominance as well. One such was the Dominion of Thannstedt, to the kingdom's east, up within a mountain range. Any attempts to enter into their realm would be Arduous at best. Their battle hardened troops contributed more than their landscape. But above all else, was the one at the head.
The Dominion's leader was a woman said to be loved by mana, Duchess Lina von Kreutune, the winter queen. Having ice magic so potent, it said to be able to freeze flames. One who ruled over her realm with unopposed power... Or the hordes of nomads that ran rampant to the south, making their way across the settled world, and raided with high efficiency. Swarming their enemies on mounted beasts, much faster than any human. Supported by their unique magic which focused entirely upon enchanting, lacking any grimoires. They were a fierce opponent, no doubt, the Sieglein people were somewhat glad they were kept away from the Kingdom by the Zheleznoshy Alliance, a nation led by a council of nobles, all under the power of the Archlord, Oriel Sorokin. Who, as per law, was selected from members of the former Archlord's family. The Zheleznoshy were different from the Dominion, and Sieglein alike. Having a different language, and culture. They were no allies, that much was clear. If not by how foreign they were, then by the constant skirmishes on the border.
Then, there were the lands that existed beyond the hordes, and what was theorized to exist beyond the forbidden region. Named as such due to the dense zones of mana located across its length, making travel there almost deadly. Of course, rumors abound about the land. Was it home to men such as themselves, or a different race? Was it home to powerful beasts, or untapped wilderness? These questions would remain unanswered, but they would still be asked regardless. But, such thoughts fell to the wayside, in recent years, as the Hordes began to go further south, the Alliance had gained more breathing room. And, as such, tensions began to heat up between the Alliance, and Sieglein. By now, it wasn't a matter of if, and when. And above that, who would be the first to strike. As the time neared for the two forces to clash, both states had gathered large armies along the frontier…