Hanmel

• Hanmel is a nation with a storied past, known for its history of expansionism, military strength, and eventual decline under the weight of imperial ambitions. It was once a dominant force in Narpol, leading invasions and conquests that shaped the political landscape of the continent. At its peak, Hanmel was an empire, but the nation has since undergone significant transformations due to internal rebellions, foreign invasions, and the loss of its former territories. Today, Hanmel is a country in recovery, attempting to rebuild its identity after centuries of tumultuous rule.

  Geography

  Hanmel is located in the southern-central part of Narpol, where fertile plains give way to mountainous regions in the north and west. Its lands are a mix of arable fields, thick forests, and strategically important rivers, which have played a crucial role in the nation’s historical military campaigns. The coastline to the east provides Hanmel access to important sea routes, though the country’s imperial fleet has long since diminished.

  • Capital City: Hanmelia, a city with a history of grandeur, now bears the scars of its imperial past. Grand palaces and military forts dominate the skyline, though many are in disrepair after decades of neglect and war. The city is an echo of its former self, attempting to maintain its relevance amidst the ruins of empire.
  • Notable Landmarks:
    • The Old Palace: Once the seat of Hanmel’s imperial family, now partially in ruins, it stands as a symbol of both the nation’s former glory and its current state of decline.
    • The War Hall: A massive structure that once held the nation’s top military strategists. It’s now repurposed for civic use but maintains the imposing presence it once had during the height of Hanmel’s conquests.

  Government

  Historically, Hanmel was ruled by imperial monarchs, who wielded absolute power over their vast territories. Today, however, the monarchy has been reduced to a figurehead, with the real power lying in the hands of a military junta. This group of generals and warlords controls the country, still clinging to the militaristic ideals that once made Hanmel an empire. However, recent years have seen growing unrest and calls for reform, as many citizens seek to distance themselves from the nation’s imperial past.

  • Current Leadership:
    • General Varrin Shalham: The current head of the military junta, known for his authoritarian rule and insistence on maintaining a strong military presence despite Hanmel’s waning influence.
    • The Royal Family: Though mostly irrelevant politically, the royal family of Hanmel remains a symbol for traditionalists. The current monarch, King Alred IV, is a ceremonial figurehead with little actual power.

  Economy

  Hanmel’s economy has historically been based on military conquest and the extraction of resources from its occupied territories. Now, with much of its empire lost, the country struggles to maintain economic stability. Agricultural production, forestry, and the remnants of its industrial sector remain important, though poverty and unemployment are widespread.

  • Primary Industries:
    • Agriculture: Wheat, barley, and other staple crops are grown in the fertile plains of Hanmel. However, much of the rural population lives in poverty due to poor land management and economic mismanagement.
    • Forestry and Timber: The forests of Hanmel provide timber for both domestic use and export, though this industry has been slow to modernize.
    • Weapons Manufacturing: Hanmel’s once-powerful military-industrial complex still produces arms, though these are now largely for domestic use rather than export.

  Culture

  Hanmel’s culture is heavily influenced by its militaristic past. The country’s citizens take pride in their history, though opinions are divided between those who long for the return of imperial glory and those who wish to move on from the past. Despite the country’s internal struggles, Hanmelian culture celebrates bravery, resilience, and tradition.

  • Religion: While not as secular as Demarais, Hanmel’s primary religion once revolved around the Old Gods, with a particular focus on gods of war and conquest. However, during its imperial period, Hanmel absorbed many cultural influences from conquered territories, and as a result, the nation’s religious landscape is diverse.

  • Philosophy: Hanmelian philosophy centers around ideas of honor, duty, and sacrifice. The military and those who serve are revered in society, and many cultural works—be they literature, art, or architecture—reflect these ideals.

  • Festivals: The Day of the Red Prince is one of Hanmel’s most celebrated holidays, commemorating the legendary figure who sought to restore Hanmel’s former power after its fall. The day is marked with military parades and ceremonies.