Nivalia
Nivalia, a wintery mountain nation, presents a rich tapestry of history and transformation. Initially, it was ruled by a monarchy that became increasingly competitive with its neighboring Queendom of Everbloom. This rivalry led the Nivalian monarchy to indulge in extravagant displays of wealth, creating a stark contrast between the opulent lifestyle of the nobility and the dire conditions of their servants.
As the nobility’s obsession with luxury grew, the disparity within the nation became more pronounced. The servants, who were vital to the functioning of the nation, faced starvation and neglect while the nobles feasted lavishly. This unsustainable situation led to a pivotal moment in Nivalia’s history.
The Order of Temperance, a group of knights who renounced their titles in pursuit of a more equitable society, played a crucial role in this period. Initially labeled as traitors for their defiance of the established order, they are now celebrated as heroes. Their actions were instrumental in sparking a servant rebellion that eventually led to the downfall of the nobility and royalty, stripping them of their titles and power.
In the aftermath of this revolution, Nivalia underwent a significant transformation. It reformed into a commonwealth, founded on the principle of equal distribution of resources and burdens. This new structure was governed by an assembly fed by various military-style orders, each tasked with different aspects of Nivalia’s governance and societal needs.
Interestingly, Nivalia’s current structure retains much of this system. Orders rise and fall in response to the nation’s evolving challenges and needs. While every citizen is trained in defense, reflecting a military ethos, the orders are also responsible for aspects that might seem unconventional for a military, such as arts and entertainment. This unique approach is a result of Nivalia having no distinct civilian class, leading to a society where every individual contributes to various facets of national life, whether it be defense, governance, or cultural enrichment.
Nivalia’s story is one of transformation from a monarchy obsessed with opulence to a commonwealth valuing equitable distribution and communal responsibility, highlighting the dynamic nature of societal structures and values.