Rausten

Rausten is a warlike nation that loves conquest and fighting in all its forms. They pride themselves on being the toughest around, boasting of the harsh living conditions from many factors, including the Impact Swamp to the south, the still active volcanoes that dot the territory, and the coldest conditions on Slagveld. The capital itself is even on a glacier. Kheshatta is a massive glacier that eons ago, someone actually chained to the side of the continent. These massive chains are some of the surviving evidence that the inhabitants of Slagveld were once very powerful in magic. The citadel, also named Kheshatta, is built on top of the glacier, and also partially carved into it. King Ashnard rules with an iron fist from this palace, listening to none but himself.

Native Life
Life in Rausten is difficult for those not a part of the army, and very good for those who are. Most of the resources of the nation go toward strengthening the army. The only reasons Rausten doesn't control the entire continent are the rough conditions surrounding their border, the Frelian army, and the logistical difficulty of moving large numbers of their favorite mounts, wyverns, over a massive area.

Army
Many say that in order to be a Wyvern Rider, one must match the aggressiveness of the wyvern, and in order to actually want to be one, you must come close to matching their stupidity and thick-headedness. In truth, Wyvern Riders represent some of the most tactically brilliant members of the officer corps, as the aerial advantage provided allows the rider to see the entire battlefield with ease. To ride one with an ounce of safety requires an immunity to their poison, which can be acquired through a months long process of being exposed to it in small doses until you are able to resist it on your own. Training also requires more time than for other flying mounts, but the strength afforded a Wyvern Rider by his mount is worth the time. Indeed, a Wyvern Rider is worth any five Pegasus Knights (just ask them), but the stubbornness of the mount can be a downfall. Axes are the favored weapons of the army, whether in flight or on the ground.

International Relations
Rausten does not get along with any other nation and has at least two wars in recorded history with every other country and faction. They especially hate Frelia for being such a thorn in their side, and for being, in their eyes "a bunch of stuck up bitches."

Gameplay Elements
Raustenians gain a +2 bonus to Intimidate checks based on their reputation as a brutal and uncompromising nation. Members of the army gain a +2 bonus to damage and attack rolls with axes.