Orlais
The land known as Orlais is a fertile and resource‐rich region stretched along the Waking Sea and extending far inland over rolling plains and forested hills. The Orlesian Empire has evolved significantly since the waning hours of the Ancient Age.
Now fully independent from the Imperium, the Orlesian Empire is unified under the strong and centralized rule of the Orlesian monarchy, headquartered in the capital of Val Rouyeaux.
Defined by its wealth, elegance, and sophistication, Orlais has been cultivated through centuries of garnered traditions around refinery. Noble houses engage in constant menuvering known as "The Grand Game", and remains a land of contrasts. A land of masks that hide glittering beauty.
Environment
The region’s temperate climate and abundant rainfall lend themselves to rich farmland and broad vineyards. The coastal areas near the Waking Sea boast bustling docks.. Forested zones cover rolling hills, providing timber, wild game, and natural barriers between territories.
Inland, the land gently rises into wooded plateaus and low mountains. Rivers and lakes crisscross these plains, supporting farming villages that produce grain, livestock, and orchard fruit. Storms sweeping in from the ocean can bring heavy rain and occasional flooding, but the mild winters let farming persist for most of the year.
Culture & Society
The people of Orlais are strong and share common traditions that define their people. They adorn themselves and their abodes with a unique ornate style. Many wear masks in daily life, it being a staple of any Orlesian, especially at a planned meeting.
Social stratification is hierarchical, defined largely by noble rank. Etiquette, refined speech, and impeccable appearance are not just valued but necessary for anyone seeking influence among the Orlesian Empire. The renowned "Great Game" permeates daily life, influencing everything in Orlais.
The dominant faith is that of the Orlesian Chantry. Worship of the Maker and reverence for Andraste have reshaped Orlais greatly.
The common language throughout Orlais is the Orlesian dialect, one that tends towards the theatrical in its inflections and expressions.
Culture Skills
Orlais is rich in resources and has grown into an empire, establishing the Chantry and seeking to expand its influence.
Standard Skills (+5): Conceal, Customs, Dance, Deceit, Influence, Perception, Willpower
Professional Skills: Acting, Art, Culture, Courtesy, Disguise, Literacy
Requirements: Dwarf, Elf, Human
And then there are the masks. And the cosmetics: I have not seen so much paint since... Ah, that is another story.
Politics
Though united under the Orlesian Emperor, practical authority in Orlais is still intensely local. Noble houses rule their lands like miniature kingdoms, shifting alliances among peers rapidly with subtle deals. Lesser nobles frequently align with stronger families for protection, prestige, profit, and a chance to stab them in the back if the opportunity presents itself.
Rivalries between noble houses can erupt into open skirmishes, though it is uncommon. Mercenary groups thrive, for the Grand Game is given dishonor by outright conflict, but hired blades bring a little more drama to the scene without disrupting the intricate web.
Trade flows along the Waking Sea and inland rivers, encouraging courtly negotiation and subtle bargaining. Those Dalish able to be found among the Dales are sought at times by house, along with Dwarves, for they act as an outside and hidden resource to surprise rivals with if unknown trade or deals can be had.
