Old Cheliax

The microregion of Old Cheliax.

Landscape of Old Cheliax.

Once a prominent human empire in Avistan, Cheliax's influence has waned over the past century. At the point of its greatest expansion at the end of the Everwar, Cheliax controlled everything in southwestern Avistan, an area still known today as Old Cheliax.

History

Aroden's death triggered turmoil and civil war. House Thrune, practicing diabolism in secret, allied with Hell to seize power. Backed by devils and Nidal's shadowcallers, Thrune crushed rivals and took the throne, transforming Cheliax into an infernal empire. Challenges arose, like the Council of Thieves in Westcrown and more recent rebellions that weakened Thrune's rule. Despite this, Cheliax remains wealthy and influential, steering its destiny and that of nations like Isger, Nidal, and Ravounel, each with distinct relationships to the empire. Isger, once devastated by warfare under colonial rule, is controlled by Cheliax. In contrast, Nidal aligns with Cheliax through sinister magic and Zon-Kuthon's faith. Ravounel broke free but struggles against Cheliax's lingering sway, relying on its goodwill. Yet, the volatile nature of alliances and devilish interests remains unpredictable.

Economics

Cheliax boasts a robust and well-developed economy, facilitating the global circulation of trade goods, manufacturing fine wines, olive oils, exquisite artworks, and the welcoming of various commodities and individuals—from purchased slaves to esteemed dignitaries invited for tours and residencies. Its trade, particularly in luxury items, holds high value across the continent.

Isger specializes in exporting lumber, food, and ore while primarily importing basic manufactured goods. However, as a Chelaxian vassal state, its trade imbalance enriches Cheliax's treasury, with tolls and tariffs from Conerica River trade pivotal to its economy.

Nidal's exports comprise silver jewelry, glasswork, and other finely crafted luxuries, supplemented by imports of slaves, wines, and edible delicacies. The nation maintains a high level of self-sufficiency.

Ravounel is still navigating its trade landscape. Presently, it primarily engages in trade with Cheliax, dealing in fish, marble, lumber, salt, silver, and other natural resources. The tourist trade through Vyre plays a crucial role in the young nation's emerging economy, even though Vyre's enigmatic rulers are occasionally unreliable in sharing their wealth.

Inhabitants

The most-commonly found peoples in the Old Cheliax region include humans of Nidalese, Taldan, and Varisian heritage, in addition to gnomes, goblins, and halflings. Frequently encountered languages include Taldane, Gnomish, Goblin, Halfling, Diabolic, Shadowtongue, and Varisian. Popular deities include Asmodeus, Desna, Erastil, Norgorber, Shelyn, and Zon-Kuthon.