Phoenixia: Difference between revisions

=== Antiquity ===

The first evidence of human habitation in Phoenixia dates back to approximately 140,000 years ago. However, the earliest known agricultural settlements are those of Tyrsol, which date back to 5000 BCE. In the east-central area of modern-day Phoenixia, known as Plana Viridis, settlers established communities around the second millennium BCE. The region was characterized by its mild tropical climate, flat landscapes, and long rivers.

In Plana Viridis, three main tribes developed: the Ranubian, the Ari, and the Foris. The Ari were an agrarian tribe who focused on growing crops like mangoes and sugar cane, while the Foris were a nomadic tribe of hunters and fishermen who lived along the coasts. The Ranubian, although not as well-known as the other two tribes, played an important role in the region's history as skilled metalworkers and traders.

=== Implentan colonization ===

In the 4th century CE, Implenta, a powerful empire, colonized Arafors to control trade routes and strategic outposts. Implentian rule significantly impacted the local culture, which, in turn, shaped the region's identity. Implenta's control was enforced through a combination of alliances with city-states and conquest. While these methods were successful initially, Implenta's hold over Arafors dwindled by the 5th century CE, leading to a fragmented region.

In 567 CE, Hopium Terrae, now situated in Joralshire, was founded by a group of merchants and adventurers. The city eventually transitioned from an oligarchic system to a military monarchy and grew in both size and power. After defeating the Morpi hordes, King Guido the Just declared himself King of Kings and established the Optian Empire. The empire's military prowess enabled it to conquer the second shore of the Areos Sea, incorporating the kingdom of Serx into its domain and renaming it Sea Optia.

The Optian Empire reached its peak around 1000 CE under the Ackrædtr dynasty. The empire boasted of a strong government, stable institutions, and a prosperous economy. Its army was highly disciplined, effectively defending its borders. However, by 1100, signs of decline began to appear in the form of corruption and political weakness. These problems further intensified with the civil war that broke out in 1150, leading to the weakening of the empire and making it vulnerable to invasion by enemy peoples and hordes.