Dral

Dral is a fictional coastal republic used in speculative fiction to illustrate cultural and political variation. Set on the eastern peninsula of the continent of Nethra, it is typically portrayed as a medium-sized nation with a long maritime tradition and a diverse population.

Geography and climate: Dral covers roughly 28,000 square kilometers, with rolling lowland plains in the south and rocky highlands in the north. The Draline River runs from the highlands to a busy harbor along the coast. The climate is temperate, with wet winters and dry summers.

Government and politics: Dral is depicted as a parliamentary republic. The president serves largely as a ceremonial head of state, while a prime minister heads the cabinet and government. The unicameral National Assembly seats 60 members, elected by proportional representation. The political scene includes multiple parties, with coalition governments common.

Economy and society: The Dralan economy centers on fishing, forestry, agriculture, and light manufacturing, with Veloria as the principal port and commercial hub. The currency is the Dral.

Language and culture: The official language is Drali, a member of the Dralic language family, with several regional dialects. Dral cultural life emphasizes seafaring heritage, craft traditions, and a maritime festival held annually in coastal towns. Cuisine highlights seafood, root crops, and dairy products.

History: According to its fictional timeline, Dral emerged from a regional unification in the 17th century and gained broader autonomy in the 19th century, later joining a regional trade bloc. In modern narratives, it maintains a policy of cautious neutrality in regional conflicts.

Notable landmarks and institutions: The Old Harbor, the Lighthouse of Winds, and Veloria University are recurring features in Dralian settings.