Yashdar

Yashdar is a large river basin, perhaps the largest in the world—about the size of Afghanistan—on the eastern side of the island continent of Mocueyoh (locally Ajma). It is also some of the most fertile land in the known world, a great boon for those seeking to farm there. Yashdar, the sacred river, runs through a number of cultures, only recently united politically by one group, the Qariyyu nomads from the north; collectively, denizens of the empire (which is comparable in size to Egypt), even those outside the river basin proper, are referred to as Yashdariyya.

Yashdar is the birthplace of the religion of Izfaism, which has appeared in a number of varieties over its long history and has since spread to other lands.

Geography

The central river basin has a monsoonal subtropical climate, heavy rains coming in from the summer oceans and very dry winters. Droughts are not uncommon, and the lushness of the region can quickly shrink to scrubland if not tended well; at the same time, powerful storms can sweep in and cause massive flooding. To this end, the inhabitants of Yashdar—and there are many—have developed a sort of symbiosis with the land.

Governance

Governance of Yashdar, as of 1058 AB, is divided into five badrid or circles, each of which holds greater power and each of which is reached by further delving into the Ayyal and the religious commentary therein. (Except for the fifth—that circle is reserved for the current mayiz.) There is no separation of church and state in Yashdar; indeed, it is expected that government officials will also be devout Siraa.