Exploring the Enchanting Kingdom of Monbil

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Creating the Map
3. The History of Mandel
4. The Schism in Targard
5. The Valdic Kingdom of Valdim
6. The Southern Gnomish Attack
7. The Rise and Fall of Targard
8. The Hanek Empire and King Hans
9. The Period of Waning States
10. The Goblin Confederacy and Grogar Gargrogenak
11. The Rise of Monville
12. The Grand Holy Empire of Monville
13. Wars and Victories
14. The Masonari Invasion
15. The Masonari Domain
16. The War of Kings
17. The Successor States
18. The Influence of Monville
19. Conclusion

Creating the Map

In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Freddy's map-making project. Freddy has spent several hours meticulously crafting a map that emulates the style of old cartographers like Emmanuel Bowen and William R Shepherd. With the use of lines to represent terrain features such as hills and mountains, along with a charming paper texture courtesy of Josh from Map Effects, Freddy has achieved an impressive result.

The History of Mandel

To truly appreciate the map, we must first understand the history of the land it represents. Mandel is a continent that was not originally inhabited by humans but was discovered by a figure named Yalef the Explorer. Yalef led a group of diverse cultures and peoples who eventually split from his kingdom of Targard to forge their own states. The schism in Targard gave birth to the core identities of many nations, with some aligning themselves as Targaryen, supporting conquest and overlordship, while others identified as non-Targaryen, advocating for independent countries and separate peoples.

The Valdic Kingdom of Valdim

During the second age, the Valdic Kingdom of Valdim emerged as one of the most expansive territories. Led by Tamo, they successfully waged a crusade against the gnomish kingdom of Edelhorn, securing their dominance in the region. Freddy has meticulously mapped out the territories of Valdim in his Valdic Diaspora Map, which showcases the kingdom's early prosperity.

The Southern Gnomish Attack

Southern prosperity came crashing down in the 6th century when the gnomes launched a counter-attack against the human kingdoms. This incursion created a power vacuum, which Targard seized upon. In 592, Targard reformed and expanded south, crossing over the Grey Hills and the Dalbos River. It became the largest human empire at that time, but constant wars against neighboring peoples eventually led to its downfall.

The Hanek Empire and King Hans

A confederation of non-Targardian peoples, led by King Hans of Rusilia, waged a devastating war against the Targaryen Empire. Their victory resulted in the destruction of Targard and its absorption into the Hanek Empire in 1016. King Hans became an influential figure, both during his reign and long after his death. He was revered by many, and his name became synonymous with the united resistance against Targaryen rule. The rise of non-Targardian nations, including Hanoda and Hanbill, solidified his legacy.

The Period of Waning States

After King Hans' death in 1035, the Hanek Empire began to splinter, ushering in a long period of waning states and short-lived empires. Among these successor states were New Ortonia, Selland, Switzerland, Keleck, the Second Azarian Empire, the Rosarian Empire, and the goblin confederacy led by the learned Grogar Gargrogenak.

The Goblin Confederacy and Grogar Gargrogenak

Grogar Gargrogenak, a once-enslaved gladiator in the Dunkelberg arena, rose to prominence through his ferocity in battle and intellectual prowess. Respected by goblin society, Grogar memorized every piece of knowledge he encountered, ultimately becoming the leader of a roaming nation of goblins. This confederacy wreaked havoc across the region, sacking cities and spreading chaos. Even the might of manish armies could not match the goblins' sheer numbers and strength. It took a fortuitous meteor strike to bring an end to Grogar's reign of terror.

The Rise of Monville

Amidst the fallen empires, the city of Mon rose to prominence. As the capital of the theocratic Kingdom of the Two Moons, Mon began a period of expansion through diplomacy and conquest. The fall of the Rosarian Empire provided an opportunity for Mon to unify the region, giving birth to the Kingdom of Monville.

The Grand Holy Empire of Monville

The Kingdom of Monville eventually transformed into the Grand Holy Empire of Monville. Led by an emperor under the guidance of the celestial regent, the empire encompassed a significant portion of Northern Cycadrill. The empire's influence was further reinforced by its devotion to the four celestial objects known as the Tetrad: the day sun, the night moon, the day moon, and the night suns. This devout religious adherence helped shape the empire's identity and solidify its power.

Wars and Victories

Throughout its existence, the Grand Holy Empire of Monville faced numerous challenges. It engaged in legendary conflicts such as the ten-year siege of Paragraphy during the war against the Kingdom of Borntar. The empire's champion, Zutsek, earned a fearsome reputation through his daring raids and capture of the Grand Master of the Mercantile Order. Monville also repelled a Masonary invasion led by King Zelkus, prevailing in a gruesome battle on Blood Beach.

The Masonary Domain

Although Monville emerged victorious, the Masonary invasion led to the establishment of the Masonary Domain along the coast. This region posed a threat to Monville's supremacy, endangering the stability of the entire region.

The War of Kings and Successor States

The death of King Ragnar II, known as the Mad, plunged the Grand Holy Empire into a devastating civil war known as the War of Kings. Petty rulers, governors, and vassals fought for independence, primacy, and religious reasons, leading to the empire's fragmentation. Successor states such as Italia, Dombia, Nordland, and Monville emerged from the ashes, each vying for dominance in the region.

The Influence of Monville

Although the Grand Holy Empire no longer exists, the kings of Monbill and the celestial regents still hold great influence over the continent. Monville continues to expand its sphere of influence by supporting influential figures like Peter von Salvolin, who aimed to secure the Zombie and Throne. Additionally, Monville maintains control over territories such as Saun and Gulpad, ensuring the kingdom's lasting presence in the region.

Conclusion

Freddy's map is not merely a visual representation of land and boundaries; it tells the story of a continent filled with diverse cultures, conflicts, and triumphs. With each stroke, Freddy captures the rich history and intricacies of Mandel, providing us with a glimpse into this captivating world.

Highlights

• Freddy's map is an incredible homage to old cartographers' styles, showcasing his attention to detail and dedication.
• The history of Mandel reveals the complex dynamics between Targard and non-Targardian nations, shaping the continent's present.
• The rise and fall of empires, such as Valdim and Targard, demonstrate the constant struggle for power and dominance.
• The Goblin Confederacy, led by Grogar Gargrogenak, proves the influence of intellect and the unexpected forces that can shape history.
• Monville's journey from a city to a mighty empire exemplifies the ambitions and accomplishments of a unified kingdom.
• The wars and victories, including the legendary conflict against the Kingdom of Borntar, highlight the resilience and prowess of Monville's armies.
• The Masonary Domain poses a significant threat to Monville's influence, adding tension and complexity to the region.
• The War of Kings shattered the Grand Holy Empire, leading to the emergence of successor states and ongoing power struggles.
• Monville's continued influence, through supporting influential individuals and retaining control over territories, ensures its lasting presence on the continent.
• Freddy's map not only showcases geographical features but also tells the intricate story of a continent shaped by history, politics, and conflicts.

FAQ

Q: How long did it take Freddy to create the map? A: Freddy spent approximately eight or nine hours creating the map, aided by the fact that he was remaking a previous unfinished version.

Q: Who led the human landing onto the continent of Mandel? A: The human landing was led by Yalef the Explorer, who discovered the continent.

Q: What are the Tetrad celestial objects? A: The Tetrad consists of the day sun, night moon, day moon, and night suns, which form the basis of the religious beliefs in Cychondra.

Q: Who was King Hans, and why is he revered? A: King Hans of Rusilia led a confederation of non-Targardian peoples in a war against the Targaryen Empire. He is revered for his role in defeating Targard and remains an influential figure in history.

Q: What led to the downfall of the Grand Holy Empire of Monville? A: The empire faced constant wars against neighboring peoples, which eventually signaled its downfall and resulted in the emergence of successor states.

Q: Why did Monville support Peter von Salvolin's bid for the Zombie and Throne? A: Monville sought to expand its influence and supported Peter von Salvolin to depose the Casper dynasty and maintain control over territories such as Saun and Gulpad.

Q: How did Grogar Gargrogenak become the leader of the Goblin Confederacy? A: Grogar Gargrogenak, an enslaved gladiator, rose to leadership by showcasing both ferocity in battle and exceptional intellect. He ultimately led the goblin confederacy through roaming attacks and tactical strategies.

Q: What impact did the Masonary Domain have on the region? A: The Masonary Domain, established after the Masonari invasion, posed a threat to Monville's supremacy and challenged the stability of the entire region.

Q: How did Monville unify the Kingdom of Monbill? A: Through a period of expansion through diplomacy and conquest, Monville eventually unified the Kingdom of Monbill and established itself as the dominant power in the region.

Q: Who were the notable figures in the War of Kings? A: The War of Kings involved various rulers, governors, and vassals vying for independence, primacy, and religious reasons, resulting in the fragmentation of the Grand Holy Empire of Monville.