Niosus

The Empire of Niosus is a Diemistic Authoritarian Nation centered on the Northern continent of Elum. The Empire presently commands the second largest known armed force on Monde. Their Empire, even after recent recession, still covers one of the largest land and sea areas including all of Elum.

Ancient History
Before the institution of Diem, Niosus was a Demonically Governed State. The state religion was a loosely connected shamanist organization and what little government existed was sparse. While this government was highly acceptable for demons, it was difficult for the Elvan and Anglian populations of Elum who made appeals to an Astral deity named Diem. During the Grand Resurgence, Angels flooded Niosus and entered a bitter war over Elum known as the War of the Exodus.

Post Exodus Niosus
Niosus after the Exodus was left in general chaos. However, legions of knights both Angelic and Elvan began rapidly rebuilding the nation's infrastructure in an attempt to construct a feasibly governable nation. They succeeded after the construction of military academies, hospitals, temples, garrisons, mills, magistries and city walls. People embraced the order offered by both Niosus and the Church of Diem. The new empire proved industious and the constructions of grand temples and castles quickly aided in the creation of a strong central military and Empiracy. Niosus began numerous trading and missionary trips around the world hoping to propagate their beliefs and capital. After years of development, Niosus went to war against Barbarous over trade routes, begining the War of Expansion.

The Grand Forces
Niosus' military is a governed force known as the Grand Forces. Like most nations, Niosus has branches for land, sea and air forces, as well as an enormous magic corps (the Grand Castors) and Astral Forces. Their order of battle is dependant on small platoons bearing numerous light and heavy infantry, a small group of knights, and some supportive casters. (See full article...)

Niosian Cultural Importance
Part of Niosus' enormous influence on Monde is a plethora of inventions including:

-The Airship

-The Mana Engine

-The Hollander

-The Sigil

-Masonry

-The Tektrite Fuse

Politics
Niosus is ruled by an Emperor who receives advice and guidance from a democratically chosen senate. Different leaders over the course of Niosus' history have been more or less firm when it comes to matters concerning the Senate, and while some have had them silenced or even killed, equal numbers of them have consorted with and even allowed the Senate to rule in their stead. The Current Emperor, Emperor Firmitas VI, has taken a hard line with both the Senate and the Clergy (particularilly their head, Laboro Laeto) and has began training much larger numbers of all combatant classes in preparation for what he believes is imminent: a second Zone War.