Rijk

Rijk is a non-Coalition nation in Cleocadia. It is known for its comparatively old-fashioned culture and architecture, as well as being one of the only nations on the Great Dark Sea ruled by a monarchy.

History
The legend surrounding the founding of Rijk is well-known by those who live there. A rough approximation reads:

''In the 'elder days', a beautiful land was ruled by a cruel and callous giant called Silfr O Roddin (translated variously as 'Silver and Red' or 'Bloody Silver'). No one had the might to oppose them.''

''One day, however, a young farmhand called Hendrik approached the giant with a sword in his hand, challenging him to a duel. Hendrik won the duel by cutting at the giant's feet, which made them fall to their knees, which he then cut, and so on, until the giant was forced to lie down, bleeding. Hendrik then cut off the giant's head, and its silver blood gushed from the neck into the river. This river is known today as the River Zilver, and bears the silver colour.''

''For this deed Hendrik was known as a hero, and he went on to found the nation of Rijk. Thus he is known as Hendrik van Rijk.'' In their visit to Zilverstad, the Night Guard were told by Affodil that the skull of O Roddin was used in 'ceremonies', such as the handing over of one generation of royalty to the next.

Monarchy
Jheronimous van Rijk, sometimes called King Joen, and Sophia van Rijk. As their name implies, they are meant to be directly descended from Hendrik. They are joint rulers.