The northern province of the Protectorate of the Sacred Cross. It is approximately 20,000 square miles.
Geography and Climate
The temperate climate of Aubenois, coupled with its diverse geography, makes it an ideal region for agriculture, especially the cultivation of grapes and the production of fine wines. The province’s picturesque landscapes and inviting climate also attract travelers and artists seeking inspiration from its natural beauty.
Geography
The Protectorate of the Sacred Cross is a diverse and enchanting realm, with its geography varying significantly from region to region. The northern province, known as Terra du Aubenois, is a prime example of the kingdom’s geographical diversity.
Situated in the northern portion of the valley that stretches between the kingdom’s two parallel mountain ranges, Aubenois boasts a remarkable blend of topographical features.
As one approaches Aubenois from the south, the landscape gradually transitions from the flatlands of the central province to the gentle foothills that mark the beginning of the northern province. These foothills give way to low-lying mountains as one progresses northward, creating a gradual ascent towards the rugged peaks of the central mountain ranges.
Aubenois is renowned for its rolling grasslands that stretch across vast expanses of the province. These expansive meadows are covered in lush, emerald-green grasses during the warmer months, creating a breathtaking contrast against the backdrop of the mountains. In spring, vibrant wildflowers burst into bloom, transforming the grasslands into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Aubenois is crisscrossed by an intricate network of streams and rivers that flow generally northward. These waterways are the lifeblood of the province, providing irrigation for farmlands, sustenance for wildlife, and picturesque landscapes for all to enjoy. The largest river in Aubenois, Rivière Argentée–the Silverflow River–winds its way through the heart of the province, creating fertile valleys ideal for agriculture.
Climate
The climate of Aubenois is strongly influenced by its geographical location and proximity to the coastline, which lies approximately 100 miles to the north. This unique combination of factors results in a temperate oceanic climate that is often compared to the coastal regions of places (like France in the real world).
Winters in Aubenois are relatively mild and temperate. Snowfall is infrequent, and when it does occur, it’s usually light and short-lived. Frost is a rare occurrence, allowing for year-round cultivation of certain crops.
Summers in Aubenois are characterized by moderate temperatures, making the region a comfortable retreat during the hotter months. The proximity to the coastline helps regulate temperatures, preventing excessive heat.
Aubenois benefits from a steady supply of rainfall throughout the year. The combination of rainfall and the abundant rivers and streams ensures a consistent water supply for agriculture.
The transition seasons of spring and autumn are particularly enchanting in Aubenois. Spring brings a profusion of wildflowers, while autumn paints the landscape with the warm hues of changing leaves.
Demographics
Humans make up the majority of the population, comprising around 60% to 70% of the total population. They are the most numerous and culturally diverse group within Aubenois, engaged in various professions, from farming to craftsmanship.
- Humans are found throughout the province in a variety of settings. They are well-distributed among towns, villages, and farms.
- Larger human populations can be found in urban areas and the provincial capital, Soiréal.
- They play key roles in both urban and rural communities, engaged in a wide range of professions.
Dwarves form a significant portion of the population, constituting about 10% to 15%. They are known for their craftsmanship and often work as blacksmiths, miners, and stonemasons. The province’s foothills may attract dwarven settlements.
- Dwarves tend to congregate in towns and villages situated near the foothills and mountains. These areas offer proximity to mining and crafting opportunities.
- Dwarven settlements are known for their well-crafted stone buildings and forges.
- Some dwarven clans may maintain underground communities within the foothills.
Half-elves make up around 5% to 10% of the population. They are often found in roles that require diplomacy and adaptability, such as traders, diplomats, and mediators between different communities.
- Half-elves are often found in urban areas, where they excel in diplomatic roles and trade.
- They may reside in the provincial capital and serve as intermediaries between different races and communities.
- Some half-elves choose to live in villages where they can bridge the gap between human and elven populations.
Halflings account for about 5% to 10% of the population. They are known for their agrarian skills and are often successful farmers, contributing to the province’s agricultural prosperity. Some also work as merchants and traders.
- Halflings tend to live in smaller villages and rural areas, often in close-knit farming communities.
- They are known for their agricultural expertise and may operate prosperous farms throughout the province.
- Halfling villages may have a distinct charm, with cozy homes and vibrant gardens.
Elves make up a smaller portion of the population, at roughly 2% to 5%. They may be concentrated in forested regions within the province and are renowned for their natural attunement and skills in archery and magic.
- Elves often reside in forested regions within the province, away from urban areas.
- They prefer secluded villages or camps located deep within the woods.
- Some elves may choose to live nomadic lifestyles, traveling throughout the province to protect its natural beauty.
Gnomes constitute around 2% to 5% of the population. They are known for their inventiveness and may be involved in crafting magical items, tinkering, and alchemical pursuits.
- Gnomes can be found in various settings, including towns, villages, and even urban areas.
- They are renowned for their curiosity and inventiveness, which may lead them to establish workshops or labs.
- Gnomes often live close to sources of magical inspiration, such as rivers or forests.
Genasi are a rare but noticeable presence, making up about 1% of the population. Their elemental heritage might lead them to roles as elementalists, herbalists, or spiritual leaders.
- Genasi are relatively rare and may live among various communities throughout the province.
- Some genasi may reside in frontier villages or remote camps, where they can explore their elemental heritage.
- Others may be spiritual leaders, guiding their communities in understanding and harnessing elemental forces.
Government
Terra du Aubenois is a vassal state of the Protectorate of the Sacred Cross. The High King rules from the Protectorate’s throne, while granting a vassal king of his choice to rule over the province. The vassal king of Terra du Aubenois, the Souverain (soo-vuh-rayn), rules from the province’s capital, exercising administrative control through vassal lords and nobles. The High King maintains direct administrative control over swaths of the province, which he parcels out either to vassals who’ve sworn direct fielty to him or governs through direct administrators.
In addition to those lands directly controlled by either the High King or the Souverain, the province includes two duchies: the March of Nordeligne and the Duchy of Châtelclair. The land at the heart of the kingdom, where the provincial capital is located and the Souverain rules, is called Cœur d’Aubenois.
Aubenois observes the following hierachy for its nobility:
- Souverain (Vassal King)
- Douceregarde
- Prévôt
- Vicomte
- Marquess
- Seigneur
Built Environment
The major towns are strategically located in different regions of Aubenois, approximately 20 to 30 miles apart from each other. The towns are bustling with activity, featuring well-structured buildings, markets, and artisan workshops. Each town has its own unique charm, influenced by the local culture and geography. Most towns serve as secondary centers for trade, governance, and commerce. They provide essential services to the surrounding villages and hamlets, including access to markets, skilled craftsmen, and administrative offices.
Villages are scattered across Aubenois, some within 10 to 20 miles of major towns and others in more remote or agricultural areas. Villages are charming and close-knit communities, often characterized by rustic homes, fertile fields, and communal spaces. Some may be situated near natural features like rivers or forests. Villages are the primary centers for farming, agriculture, and local community life. They rely on nearby towns and the city for trade and access to specialized services.
Hamlets are dispersed throughout Aubenois, including in remote and frontier areas. Hamlets are small, rural settlements, often consisting of a few homes, farms, or craft workshops. They may be more isolated and self-sufficient, with some located deep in the wilderness. Hamlets are engaged in various activities, from farming to resource gathering. They serve as rest stops, supply points, and outposts in the more remote regions of the province
