Kaelas

Kaelas is a fictional archipelago and city-state used in fantasy literature and role-playing games. In most depictions, Kaelas sits in the western seas as a sprawling network of islands known for maritime trade, cosmopolitan ports, and a long history of seafaring culture. The name is described as deriving from an ancient Kaelan language, though etymologies vary by author.

Geography and settlement: The core consists of seven major islands plus numerous islets, with Kaelas Prime forming the political and economic center. The archipelago features coral harbors, rocky shores, mangrove swamps, and extensive trade routes. The climate ranges from tropical on the southern coast to subtropical inland, with a pronounced monsoon season shaping harvests and shipping schedules.

Politics: Kaelas is typically portrayed as a merchant republic, governed by the Council of Merchants and an annually elected Speaker who acts as head of state. Local councils oversee districts, while guilds influence regulation of trade, crafts, and port security. External relations emphasize neutrality in a regional balance of power.

Economy and society: The economy centers on maritime trade, fisheries, spice and timber exports, pearl diving, and shipbuilding. Kaelas hosts a diverse population, with languages blending Kaelan, a trade pidgin, and regional tongues. Festivals dedicated to sea gods and seasonal markets punctuate the year.

Notable geography and culture: Landmarks include the Kaelas Pearl, the Grand Market of Kaelas City, and the cliffside Lira Gate. The archipelago is celebrated in fiction for its complex trade networks, political intrigue, and evocative seascapes.