Calcera

Capital City: La Salita
Population: Approx. 16,000,000
Religion: The Fayth
Ruler: The Calceran Council
Demonyms: Calceran
Emblem: A red fox with a crown around its neck, facing three white stars on a field of yellow 

Pronounced: Kal-ser-ah

Calcera is split into three regions; Pratum, Vega and Silva. These regions were once part of the now defunct Estreyan Kingdom. The Estreyan monarchy ruled with an iron fist, which led to the Great Revolution of 1405. This revolution resulted in what we consider to be modern Calcera.

The revolution was led by the famed folk hero, Ferran Guineu. Legend has it that he was a freedom fighter, who sought to rectify the injustices set out by King Manuel. He was quick witted and cunning, which meant that he evaded capture by the authorities for many years. However, he was eventually captured. Ferran laughed as the guards put him in chains, and as soon as he knew he was alone he turned into a fox, fled the castellum and then united the three regions to rise up against the tyrannical King. Several centuries on, the tale has its own little variations here and there depending on where you live in the country. 

Calcera is known for their holistic view of scientific endeavours, which goes hand in hand with their devout following of The Fayth. Guided by God, scientists and their like approach science as part of their religious practice. Therefore, science may look somewhat less clinical and more holistic in nature in this area. They are particularly interested in the study of crystal properties, the alignment of stars to make prophecies and the idea of fate; destiny.

An education in Calcera is thought to be more 'free form', much like their following of The Fayth. They are dedicated, but believe the lines of good and evil are more flexible, evil deeds are permissible for the good of The Fayth. The Jaegers of Calcera are a true embodiment of this creed.

Art by Eldritch Swain

The Calceran Flag

It is of no surprise that the fox on the Calceran flag represents the folk hero, Ferran. The crown represents the monarchy he helped to topple, and he faces to rally the three regions, the stars.

Recent History

Verdan Independence (1653)

After centuries of being a member of the Verda Empire, Calcera successfully achieved its independence from the Empire following a trade dispute across Aynca that resulted in great conflict. 

Following that period of civil war in the Empire, Calcera was finally able to enjoy an extended period of peace and freedom. Granted, the first decade was bumpy as leadership and reorganising of the nation's affairs were set to rights, however the nation has since enjoyed an extended era of prosperity. 

Since 1701, Calcera has been able to re-establish the only trade route between Aynca and Gaulois, via the outlaw port city of Vorda Salvatge. 

Notable Places

La Salita

The Capital of both Vega and Calcera as a whole. This huge city is a gleaming white beacon upon the Mesa overlooking the hills and valleys of Vega. The Crystal Cathedral and Palazzo are the main focal points of the city; striking and elegant, the white stone emphasises the vibrant colours of the glasswork that cast rainbows of colour across the other white buildings of the city. It is traditional that all buildings have at least one coloured window, so that the refraction of coloured light continues to cascade throughout the streets. At dawn, the city is illuminated in colour and is truly a sight to behold. 

Villa Rossa

The fabled home of the folk hero, Ferran Guineu. The russet red clay buildings lend themselves to a more Tarquinian design, which makes sense with the location sitting near the Calcera/Tarquinia border and the region's shared influences. This medium sized town sits in the center of many farms surrounded by forest, making it the ideal marketplace in the locality. It also makes an even better place for spinning tales of freedom fighters hiding out in the woods, ready to spring upon travelling royal envoys in the days of old. 

Puente de Piedra

An old and proud city along and built over the Río Escarlata, the Scarlet River, or sometimes colloquially known as the blood river. Whilst the nickname sounds alarming, the river earns its name for the algae that populates the river in late summer - which turns the waters from clear to a deep red. This algae is prized for its uses, and is harvested by the locals for food, medicines and even fabric dye. Puente de Piedra is the Capital of the region. 

Vorda Salvatge

The Wild Coast. Whilst it is technically a member of the state of Pratum, there is a certain separation to it thanks to its folklore surrounding the destruction of the monarchy. 

It is the frontier of Calcera, where the law has been interpreted in its own way by the inhabitants. The law is more in the hands of many rather than the few, for organised law enforcement is few and far between. Guard captains and their legions are a luxury for the wealthier areas of Calcera, but in Vorda Salvatge it is the common people who decide what is fair and just. 

With this in mind, it is unsurprising that a pirating culture has emerged from Vorda Salvatge. It is small, but infamous and in many ways part of why Calcera has been at the forefront of Gaulois relations. 

Towns and Villages

A selection of known towns and villages throughout Calcera:

Clothing & Fashion

Commoners

The clothing styles of Calceran commoners is fairly similar in style to Verdan commoners, particular southern Verda which enjoys warmer weather. Utilitarian and durable fabrics like wool and linen are favoured to create simple, functional clothing; long skirts with aprons, and breeches with tunics or vests. 

Calceran leather is famed and is readily available to any budget. Practical clothing and accessories such as leather boots, belts and other leather goods fill armoires. Additionally, wide brimmed hats and lightweight head scarves woven into braided hairstyles are used for sun protection. 

Nobility

Calceran nobility look rather plain standing beside the ostentatious fashion of Verdan nobles. However, there is a distinguished understatement to Calceran noble fashion. From a distance, one may not even be able to distinguish commoner to nobility. It is not until closer inspection that the fine silks and velvet adorned with intricate embroidery sets the nobles apart. Rich, deep hues with metallic accents signify wealth and status, thanks to the widespread availability of dyes across the nation. 

In terms of actual garments; elaborate dresses with structured bodices are favoured alongside coats with ornate buttons and knee-high fine leather boots. Elaborate jewellery and ornate hairpieces, including colourful glass beads, are woven into carefully groomed hairstyles and beards.