Balasht

Balasht is the land of great mystery. Located on Obira, it is often referred to as the Gate of the West. Balasht stands as the bulwark between Aedinian merchants and explorers and their interests in the wider range of nations in Obira. For most, Balasht exists as little more than a story, sitting far out of the minds of ordinary folks.

Government
Balasht is ruled by a dynastic cycle that has endured an unknown number of centuries. The ruler of the dynasty is referred to as the Balashtar, meaning "The Flame Hearted." It is not a dynasty by the traditional sense, unrestricted by the ideas of blood relations ascending to the throne. Instead the Balashtar is chosen by their predecessor, and follows no particular pattern. Each Balashtar can be nominated for any particular reason or trait, and are not bound by blood relation, social status, or other requirements. Upon selection the Hedrash, the council of elders who serve the Balashtar, validate the chosen individual and confirm their ascension to the throne. This dynastic cycle has continued unimpeded for centuries. While Balasht isn't the sole nation of Obira, it is by far the largest, and often sees itself as the protector of its smaller neighbors, especially from the interests of Aedinian influences. Most nations on Obira pay tribute to Balasht for these protections, often as a form of client-state. While they remain independent, they are ultimately beneath Balasht's influence. Balasht has demonstrated no particular interest in conquering its neighbors, and its become notably unclear what the Balashtan government and people ultimately strive towards.

People
The dragonborn of Balasht are a fierce people, strong of body and conviction. They take great pride in their individual worth, striving to better themselves above all else. Their pride has led to several clashes with eastern explorers voyaging into their lands over the past centuries. Most dragonborn take a natural affinity towards militaristic discipline and traditions, serving the will of their Balashtar and maintaining the peace on Obira.  is the primary deity of Balasht, believed to have created the dragonborn and all of Altea. While other deities have slowly started to creep into the nation ushered in by Aedinian traders, they are not practiced in any public spaces. While the people of Balasht recognizes their existence, they do not tend to believe in their divinity. Instead the Balashtans believe them to be beings of significant power created by .