Balrijin is a country in central Haless, located in the hills north of the Yanshen River. It is the home of the goldscale kobolds.
History[]
The goldscales used to live underground until the arrival of the golden dragon Balris during the Dragonwake, approximately 500 AA. Rather than destroy or enslave the kobolds as chromatic dragons would, Balris took them under his wing. He taught them how to organize into a greater society, how to create art and science, and how to govern well. After two generations, however, Balris departed in search of his kin. The dragon said that he would return soon, but centuries passed with no sign of him. The kobolds coalesced into a theocratic federation that worships Balris as a god, "He Who Shall Return". (However they also participate in the general spiritual practices of the Righteous Path.)
In the early 15th century AA, Balrijin was attacked by the expansionist Jiangdu, but managed to defend itself by allying with the peasants of Lanjinhui in their successful "Blue Scarf Rebellion" against the stratocracy. By the time a ceasefire was signed in 1434 AA, Jiangdu had lost de facto control of all its countryside holdings to the peasants. However, as of 1444 AA, Balrijin was the only state to formally recognize the new peasant republic, creating a lasting friendship and alliance between the two countries.
Society[]
Balrijin is a federation united under the Sage Council, who are the intellectual-spiritual leaders and select a supreme political leader ("Great Sage" or "Golden Sage") from amongst themselves. The Great Sage rules until death, and their successor ("Protégé") is selected immediately after a new Great Sage's ascension.
The federation itself is comprised of various kobold clans, each specializing in a certain field, such as the Knowing Eye clan which handles the country's divination and espionage. Although a clan does not "rule the country" if one of their kin becomes Great Sage, that clan will certainly receive some favouritism in government affairs.
Balrijin culture revolves around Balris and his teachings. The dragon serves not only as a figure of worship, but also as a moral and intellectual teacher. Aside from that, goldscales have rich traditions of craftsmanship and martial arts. Balrijin-aligned kobolds can also be found in foreign cities across Haless, where they've earned a reputation as savvy merchants.