The Free Lands

The Free Lands, one of the Five Nations in Makasing, are a unique collection of autonomous city-states and tribal communities, bound by a shared commitment to freedom and cultural preservation. Lacking formal borders and centralized authority, they represent a vast region that emphasizes local governance over unity under a single state. The city-state of Cahokia, a cultural and economic powerhouse, is the most notable within the Free Lands. Cahokia’s influence extends through trade, politics, and culture, yet each city or tribal community within the Free Lands maintains distinct customs and self-governance, operating under a loose alliance rather than a singular government.

Government and Politics:

In contrast to other centralized nations, the Free Lands follow a decentralized model where each community or city-state governs itself. This structure allows various communities to retain their individual identities and govern according to local customs and needs. Cahokia often serves as a gathering point for representatives, facilitating alliances and cooperative agreements that uphold the region’s stability and protect its collective interests.

Economy and Trade:

The economy in the Free Lands is diverse and self-sustaining, with each city-state and community focusing on different trades and crafts. Cahokia acts as a major trade hub, drawing merchants and visitors from across Makasing and beyond. The region is known for its artisanal goods, cultural exports, and agricultural products. Its marketplaces showcase a variety of unique goods influenced by numerous traditions, from crafted items to agricultural produce that relies on traditional planting techniques alongside advanced bio-synthetic practices.

Society and Culture:

The Free Lands are a tapestry of cultural diversity, where hundreds of tribes contribute unique languages, customs, and beliefs. Cahokia, as the largest city, exemplifies this blending of traditions and serves as a center for arts, festivals, and communal gatherings. Art, music, and storytelling are deeply integrated into daily life, and many traditions have been preserved and shared across communities, fostering a sense of unity amid diversity. The Three Sisters (corn, beans, and squash) remain central to culinary traditions, symbolizing the mutual support and interdependence that characterize both agriculture and community life within the Free Lands.

Major Cities:

Cahokia: The political and cultural hub of The Free Lands.
Napaya: A rising city in the middle of international politics.