Kingdom of Elukhis
| Kingdom of Elukhis | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Elukhis' emblem from Blades of Deceron | |
| General | |
| Also known as | Elukhis |
| Governance | |
| Type | Monarchy with council |
| Capital | Unnamed City |
| Leader | King Buneb IV |
The Kingdom of Elukhis is a desert realm located in the central regions of Deceron. Though much of its land is harsh and sparsely populated, Elukhis holds great importance due to its control over key trade routes crossing the Tabuqhen Desert. The kingdom is known for its three wealthy oasis-cities and its people's deep spiritual connection to the desert.
Lore
Geography & Trade
Elukhis is dominated by the Tabuqhen Desert, a vast arid region that separates the Southern Kingdoms from the fertile Brar Valley. Travel through the desert is only possible by following a narrow chain of oases running from south to north, knowledge of which is held almost exclusively by Elukhisians. As a result, much of the trade between the southern lands and the Brar Valley passes through Elukhisian territory, giving the kingdom strong influence over commerce despite its limited size.
Cities & Oases
Three major oases support the kingdom’s population. The largest and most central oasis is home to the capital, while two smaller oasis-cities lie to the north and south, each ruled by powerful local leaders. Beyond these cities, only small oases exist, able to sustain little more than temporary settlements. Overall, Elukhis has a relatively small population compared to its neighbors, limiting its ability to wage prolonged wars or pursue large-scale territorial expansion.
Government & Culture
Elukhis is ruled by King Buneb IV alongside a council formed from the leading dynasties of the oasis-cities. Elukhisian culture places great value on education, history, and proper conduct, with libraries and universities preserving records of the past. This respect for history also means that old conflicts and grudges are rarely forgotten, even across generations.
Religion
The religion of Elukhis centers on Alsalthara, one of many creator gods, believed to have become fully bound to the world through the act of creation. Elukhisians believe the Tabuqhen Desert lies at the world’s center and that an entrance to the afterlife rests somewhere beneath its sands. Oases are considered sacred places, often described as the god’s tears for the dead, and are carefully protected as both spiritual and practical lifelines of the kingdom.