Mercatura

Capital: Meditor

Notable Settlements: Eremus

Ruler: Priest Askia

Government: Theocracy

Languages: Oryx, Merca, Common, Native

Classes(most common): Bard, Fighter, Druid, Monk

Races (most common): Oryx, Nagaji, Oread, Sylph

History:

Mercatura was a tiny area until the rise of an Oryx who led his people to establish their own place in the world. Their natural ability to handle the extreme heat allowed them to build cities in the desert. Also the ability to use divine magic aided as well. As a result the Mercatura nation arose in the desert. To aid in trade they built small town and cities near oasis'. They also connected them via roads and maintained inns for merchants. This has led to an increase in trade across the vast northern desert.

All deities are welcome for worship so long as they bring no harm to the area. The idea of tolerance is also preached her allowing people normally unaccepted elsewhere to make their homes in this region.

Government:

The government is headed by a high priest who must be able to survive the harsh desert. In addition he must demonstrate he knows the laws of all major religions, of the kingdom, and of trade. The demonstration must include a show that he understands the spirit of the law and not just the words.

This has led to interesting debates on who is actually in charge. Nonetheless he rules wisely and well. He maintains a council of advisers. All major religions are represented, the merchants, nobles, commoners, and scholars. This allows him to make decisions that are in the best interest of the country.

Places of Interest:

Meditor is simplicity at its best. The streets are laid out in a neat and orderly way. Each section of the city is blocked by walls. The city was bustling even in Fatin's time. Even then its best known area was famous for its scholarship. The University of Shining Light is located here.

Eremus is the city of merchants to many. Indeed it has been a bustling trade city for centuries. Here travelers and locals can find a wide array of items for sale. From exotic items of far away lands or things from other countries or even local items. The city also contains a university called Beacon of the Planes. 

Culture:

People here tend to be very tolerant of others. They also tend to be more generous towards others. They feel if they have more than another who is in need of something then it will be granted. Someone caught stealing is given a chance to reform and a job as well. If it was due to need for food, shelter, or medical those are covered. The job is given to pay the expense until they can pay those expenses themselves.

Scholarship is the most praised here and everyone has at least some education. All can read, write, know their history, math and usually speak at least merca, racial, and common.