Overview
Caratania is a brooding kingdom of mist-laden valleys and shadowed mountains, perched at the foot of the forbidding Blood Mountains. Its people are the descendants of warriors and martyrs, heirs to the unyielding defiance of Hrothgar Bloodlance and his companions who cast down the vampire lords of old. This land is one of superstition and faith, where every hearth bears charms against the restless dead and every household whispers prayers to Aeter, the Eternal Flame, before nightfall.
While the crown commands loyalty, it is the Church of Aeter that truly shapes Caratanian life. Priests serve as judges, inquisitors, and advisors to the nobility, ensuring that both throne and people remain steadfast in their devotion. The militant Shield of Dawn drills in relentless cadence, and foreigners find welcome—measured, watchful, and always listening.
Travelers who enter Caratania will find themselves in a land both beautiful and foreboding. The vineyards produce some of the most celebrated wines in all of Kelos, rich and dark, favored by nobles and merchants alike. Visitors are often struck by the strong religious character of the people—processions wind through the streets, bells toll at every hour, and even the inns bear symbols of Aeter to ward off evil. Foreigners are welcomed warmly enough, but always with an edge of watchfulness, for strangers might carry shadows with them. The nights are long in Caratania, and no traveler forgets the weight of unseen eyes when the moonlight falls upon the mountains.
Towns & Cities
- Barasov — seat of crown and high clergy; skyline crowned with undying torches.
- Valmere — vineyard town producing famed crimson vintages.
- Grimwater — river port whose iron tithe arms the border garrisons.
Factions & Orders
- Church of Aeter — judges, scholars, exorcists.
- Shield of Dawn — knightly wardens against the dark.
- Guild of Vintners — wine, land, and quiet power.
“Bells at every hour; blessings priced fairly—mostly.”
— Market scribe, Barasov
Economy & Trade
- Crimson wine (Valmere), ironwork (Grimwater), devotional art (Barasov).
- Caravan tolls through the Moonlit Pass; escorts customary after dusk.
Rumours & hooks
- Restless legions haunt the Moonlit Pass.
- Whispered debts to old vampire courts.
- Unlicensed witch-lanterns; forbidden relic trade.
