Aquaris

The Cities of Aquaria are a technocratic monarchy, situated in the sea between Aristios and Redoriv. They reside on islands, nestled between stretches of sea. There are 4 cities in total. Altaris, the capital, and 3 abandoned cities surrounding it. The technocracy is completely homogenous, with 100% of the population made up of the Altari. The Altari are a seafaring species, and are descendents of the builders who made the Sea Temples.

History
Millenia ago, the Altari were a blossoming species, spread across the region of Astios in Eldham. However, during this time, the Empire of Qwe'tsn was a rising power in the region. They were human supremacists, and with a few exceptions, annihilated all species who they deemed to be unfit to be in the Empire. Eventually, they reached the Astios peninsula, and attempted to launch a siege on the Altari's cities.

However, the Altari, having the ability to breathe underwater, held the upper hand and drove the Qwe'tsn forces back. But, the cost of life lost in the Qwe'tsn invasion of the Astios peninsula greatly reduced the male population of the Altari, which slowed birth rates. This would eventually lead to the event known as "The Great Splinter", which refers to the split in the Altari.

The first group decided to permanently seal themselves underwater, and created the Kingship of Altari. For over a thousand years, this group began constructing massive temples to their gods. These momuments are a testiment to the dedication these Altari had to building the temples, and can still be found all over the oceans of Rathnir and Eldham.

The second group instead decided to adapt to the land, and settled on islands. They too built temples and monuments to their gods, however, these were much less grand. This splinter group became known as the Technocracy of Aquaria over time. Good things, however, rarely last. The first group who constructed the underwater temples were killed by their own creations, the Guardians.

The second group continued to dwindle in population, almost going extinct. However, with the discovery of Eldham by Athaz the Traveler, this brought the species and nation to a renaissance. The settlers brought new goods and materials to the islands, and in return, the Technocracy began selling native plants to the settlers.

Hierachy
The Technocracy is a Monarchy, meaning the King has absolute control over the nation. Historically, this position has belonged to the leader of the state-mandated religion, but in recent years, this position has been split up. There are 3 princes who also run smaller cities on the Outer Islands, which encircle the inner island.