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|image_coat = [[File:CoatOfArms.png|150px]]
|image_coat = [[File:CoatOfArms.png|150px]]
|national_motto = <br/>"Seþþə vīəra Raehxxa nīəva Matrïænne jmørrə"<br/>{{small|"''Love of the Motherland is our only Law''"}}
|national_motto = <br/>"Seþþə vīəra Raehxxa nīəva Matrïænne jmørrə"<br/>{{small|"''Love of the Motherland is our only Law''"}}
|national_anthem = <br> Khıjœvïænne Aemınə Hyjnnə<br/>{{small|''The Preclarous Khijovian Anthem''}}[[File:MediaPlayer.png|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEI82RCaExw&ab_channel=Khijovia]]
|national_anthem = <br> Khıjovïænne Aemınə Hyjnnə<br/>{{small|''The Praeclarus Khijovian Anthem''}}[[File:MediaPlayer.png|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEI82RCaExw&ab_channel=Khijovia]]
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|image_map = KhijovianMap3.png
|image_map = KhijovianMap3.png
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|established_event1 = Foundation of the Ascended Kingdom
|established_event1 = Foundation of the Ascended Kingdom
|established_date1 = July 3, 1611 AR
|established_date1 = July 3, 1607 AR
|established_event2 =
|established_event2 =
|established_date2 =  
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|area_sq_mi = 535,348
|area_sq_mi = 535,348
|area_footnote = <!--Optional footnote for area-->
|area_footnote = <!--Optional footnote for area-->
|percent_water = 6,8
|percent_water = 3,8
|area_label = Land Area
|area_label = Land Area
|area_label2 = <!--Label below area_label (optional)-->
|area_label2 = <!--Label below area_label (optional)-->
|area_data2 = <!--Text after area_label2 (optional)-->
|area_data2 = <!--Text after area_label2 (optional)-->
|population_estimate = ~34,275,100
|population_estimate = 51,085,900
|population_estimate_rank =
|population_estimate_rank =
|population_estimate_year = 1611 AR
|population_estimate_year = 1613 AR
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|GDP_nominal = $ 225,000,000,000.00
|GDP_nominal_rank =
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|GDP_nominal_per_capita = 41,850 [[Shonnenors]] (53,1495 USD)
|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $ 4,405.00
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'''Khijovia''' ([[Khijovian]]: ''Khıjovïæ'' [kɪjəʊviə]), officially the '''Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia''', is a feudalistic constitutional monarchy located in northwestern [[Pelia]] - in a geographical region usually known as the [[High West]] - with [[Kleitore]] as its capital city. Khijovia is bordered to the north by the [[Kyldigard|Kyldigardian Confederation]] and to the south by [[Prestore]], and faces the [[Kesper Sea]] to the west. The nation has a population of about 34 million inhabitants and occupies the entire historical region of the same name, also possessing the [[Recondia|Recondian Archipelago]] in the [[Wintry Ocean]]. The Ascended Kingdom was founded in 1611 AR by [[Arcadion II]] shortly after the collapse of the [[Khijovian Federation]] and after the return of the [[Zenonian Dynasty]]. The State is subdivided into [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#Administrative_Regions 27 fiefdoms] plus a [[Axiomia|special administrative district]]. A strongly spiritual society, Khijovia has always had a very special relationship with the magical arts.
 
'''Khijovia''' ([[Khijovian]]: ''Khıjovïæ'' [kɪjəʊviə]), officially the '''Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia''', is a feudalistic constitutional monarchy situated in northwestern [[Pelia]], with [[Kleitore]] serving as its capital. It shares its borders with the [[Kyldigard|Federated People's Republic of Kyldigard]] to the north and the [[Prestore|Kingdom of Prestore]] to the south, while the [[Kesper Sea]] lies to the west. With a population of approximately 51 million inhabitants, Khijovia occupies the northern part of the [[High West]] region and holds the [[Recondian Archipelago]] in the [[Wintry Ocean]]. Established in 1607 AR by [[Arcadion II]] following the collapse of the [[Khijovian Federation]] and the return of the [[Zenonian Dynasty]], the Ascended Kingdom is divided into [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#Administrative_Regions 27 fiefdoms] and a [[Axiomia|special administrative district]]. Known for its deeply spiritual society, Khijovia has maintained a unique connection with the magical arts throughout its history.




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==Etymology==
==Etymology==
The etymology of the name Khijovia has always been the subject of reconstructions not only by linguists, but also by historians, traditionally attentive to the question; not always, however, we are faced with etymologies in the strict sense, rather with hypotheses which over time have formed a rich corpus of possible solutions, among which there are numerous that refer to popular traditions (such as the mythical existence of an ancient pre-Shuffle king named ''[[Khjvonnə]]'').
The origin of the name Khijovia has long intrigued linguists and historians, prompting diverse reconstructions. While some theories delve into etymological roots, others are steeped in historical narratives, including the intriguing notion of an ancient pre-Shuffle king named ''Khjvonnə'' in popular traditions.


It is thought that the name derives from the word ''Khyjvīə'', an exoethnonym with which the [[Koritians]] designated a tribe that inhabited the bordering region of [[Aldoria]]. It is also hypothesized, however not in contrast with what has been said, that this people worshipped the simulacrum of a pagan divinity, ''Khœvă''. According to this hypothesis, the name would therefore mean "inhabitants of the land of Khœvă".
One prevalent theory suggests that the name stems from ''Khyjvīə'', an exoethnonym used by the [[Koritia|Koritians]] for a tribe residing in the neighboring [[Aldoria]] region. Another hypothesis, not mutually exclusive, proposes that these people venerated a pagan deity, ''Khœvă'', making the name signify "inhabitants of the land of Khœvă."


A further hypothesis instead maintains that the origin of the name is simply the semantic union of the word ''Khvıəyūtœnnə'', a qualifying adjective of uncertain etymology which referred to the [[Kveutonian Empire]], with the term ''Jyovïæhnnə'', which referred to the [[Jovianic Order]] and its doctrine.
Alternatively, a distinct theory posits a simpler origin—the semantic fusion of ''Khvıəyūtœnnə'', an adjective linked to the [[Kveutonian Empire]], and ''Jyovïæhnnə'', associated with the [[Jovianic Order]] and its doctrine.


==History==
==History==
Despite all that prior to the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#The_Great_Restart Great Shuffle] is basically unknown to the Sparkalian historians, the great cultural and historical heritage of Khijovia has managed to come down to us almost in its entirety thanks to the numerous archaeological sites, written finds, and surviving traditions, thus allowing us to faithfully reconstruct the history of the Khijovian region.
During ancient times, Khijovia served as a crossroads for numerous neolithic cultures. Thriving city-states emerged during the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#Era_of_Ruin_-_985_BR_to_0_BR Era of Ruin], preserving their cultural identity and language staunchly against external influences. Notwithstanding the upheavals in the rest of Sparkalia, Khijovia remained isolated, relatively unaffected by wars and famines until the catastrophic [[Abheric Wars]] and the subsequent collapse of the city-state system around 277 BR, ushering in the [[Barren Age]] and marking the end of the [[Archaic Age]] in Khijovian history. Despite suffering continental amnesia during the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#The_Great_Restart Great Shuffle], Khijovian culture persisted.
 
A crossroads of numerous neolithic cultures, ancient Khijovia saw the birth and flourishing of a multitude of independent city-states that thrived for hundreds of years during the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#Era_of_Ruin_-_985_BR_to_0_BR Era of Ruin], eagerly preserving their cultural identity and language from outside meddling and influences. Following the collapse of the city-state system around 277 BR, the Khijovian territory was occupied by numerous nomadic peoples coming from the south, thus initiating the so-called [[Barren Age]] and ending the [[Archaic Age]] of Khijovian history. Being purely isolationists, the Khijovians were not concerned with the chaos and turmoil that was tearing apart the rest of Sparkalia at the time, therefore they were not too much affected by wars and famines, and continued to live peacefully up to the catastrophic [[Abheric Wars]] and the subsequent advent of the [[Syhric]] caste. As the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#The_Great_Restart Great Shuffle] occurred, Khijovia was struck with continental amnesia but her culture would manage to survive and persist into time to come.
 
Khijovia was then conquered and divided into multiple governatorates by the Kveutonian civilization in 287 AR, becoming one of the most important economic and cultural centers of the [[Kveutonian Empire]]. Having reached its maximum expansion in the "heydays" (400-425 AR), the [[Kveutonian Empire]] then dissolved in 502 due to being gradually expelled from the region, thus creating new independent statelets throughout the [[High West]] and sanctioning the birth of ancient religious-monastic military orders: among these was the [[Jovianic Order]], which operated on the Khijovian region for more than a century until its disappearance around 656. During the next few centuries the old city-states transformed into independent municipalities, which would later evolve into feudal lordships headed by the most influential and important families; in this period, the first Khijovian principalities, duchies, counties and marquisates arose.


Starting from 1152, the Grand Duke of Klettoria [[Zenon the Great]] launched a campaign of national unification and managed to defeat the rival [[House of Arenia]] for hegemony over Khijovia, then reuniting the agglomeration of territories into a single Kingdom on July 11, 1161: the [[Kingdom of Khijovia]]. Although hundreds of years of reign, on January 28, 1534 the [[Zenonian Dynasty]] was driven out in a coup d'état and the [[Federation of Khijovia|Khijovian Federation]] was founded. However, Federalist Khijovia had a short life as, with the return of the [[Zenonian Dynasty]] in 1610, the young prince [[Arcadion II]] managed to obtain power and bring the monarchy back to the country: on July 3, 1611 the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia was founded.
In 289 AR, the Kveutonian civilization conquered and divided Khijovia into governatorates, making it a crucial economic and cultural hub within the [[Kveutonian Empire]]. The empire reached its zenith around 415 but dissolved in 502, leading to the formation of independent statelets and religious-monastic military orders, including the influential [[Jovianic Order]]. Over the centuries, cities transformed into feudal lordships, giving rise to Khijovian principalities, duchies, counties, and marquisates.


The Grand Duke of Klettoria, [[Zenon the Great]], initiated a national unification campaign in 1152, defeating the rival [[House of Arenia]] and establishing the [[Kingdom of Khijovia]] on July 11, 1161. Despite centuries of rule, the [[Zenonian Dynasty]] faced a coup on January 28, 1534, leading to the formation of the [[Khijovian Federation]]. However, in 1607, with the return of the [[Zenonian Dynasty]], Prince [[Arcadion II]] reclaimed power, founding the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia on July 3, 1607.
===Primordial Aeon===
===Primordial Aeon===
====Prehistory====
====Prehistory====
The first ever population of the Khijovian territory of which we have news dates back to about 35,000 years ago by the [[Acreatics]], a nomadic civilization of which the archaeological site of [[Yvernia]] on today's [[Pletorian]] coasts in particular is preserved among many; the site appears to be what remains of an anciently more articulated funerary complex, presenting over 20 tombs with related funerary kits. The [[Acreatics]] practiced the burial of the deceased and had a rather particular concept of death: the skeletons were arranged with the head facing East to perhaps symbolize a second birth, and the skulls were colored with red ocher to return blood, and therefore life, to the corpse. The walls of the funeral complex are also adorned with rock paintings with a propitiatory purpose, depicting shamanic rituals in particular. Burial was thus a magical rite, intended to prevent the soul of the dead from disturbing the existence of the living and intended to get rid of the spirit by granting it the way to new life; it is precisely in this culture that the first contacts with the magical arts in the Khijovian region occur. The large number of Venuses representing female creator deities found in the tombs, in addition, suggests that the social organization of the [[Acreatic]] civilization was the matriarchy for the direct relationship of women with fertility and reproduction.
Approximately 35,000 years ago, the first known inhabitants of the Khijovian territory were the [[Acreatics]], a nomadic civilization whose existence is primarily evidenced by the archaeological site of [[Yvernia]] along today's [[Pletorian]] coasts. Yvernia preserves remnants of an intricate funerary complex, featuring over 20 tombs with associated burial items. The [[Acreatics]] had distinctive burial practices, arranging skeletons with heads facing East—a potential symbol of rebirth. Skulls were adorned with red ocher, signifying a return of blood and life to the deceased. The complex walls displayed propitiatory rock paintings, depicting shamanic rituals.
 
Burial for the [[Acreatics]] was a magical rite, aimed at preventing the disturbance of the deceased's soul and facilitating its transition to new life. This culture marked the initial encounters with magical arts in the Khijovian region. The prevalence of Venus figurines in the tombs hints at a matriarchal social organization, emphasizing women's connection to fertility and reproduction.


The Neolithic agricultural revolution did not excessively change the life of the [[Acreatics]], who continued to base their livelihood on hunting and shellfish gathering. Starting from the twelfth millennium BR, however, probably as a result of climatic changes, this population moved away from the coasts and began to migrate towards the surrounding regions and, due to the mountainous nature of the territory, transhumant farming developed and subsequently agriculture also began to be practiced, thus marking the end of nomadism and the definitive sedentarization of the [[Acreatic]] people, now scattered throughout almost the entire Khijovian region.
Despite the Neolithic agricultural revolution, the [[Acreatics]] maintained their reliance on hunting and shellfish gathering. Around the twelfth millennium BR, climatic shifts prompted their migration from coasts to surrounding regions. The mountainous terrain led to the development of transhumant farming, eventually giving way to settled agriculture. This marked the end of nomadism and the permanent settlement of the [[Acreatic]] people across the Khijovian region.


====Protohistory====
====Protohistory====
The greater availability of food guaranteed by agriculture and livestock produced, as a result, a great demographic increase and the consequent appearance of the first housing agglomerations. In this period, the matriarchy would have disappeared due to the need for the presence of a male military leader to defend the villages, and thus a transition towards a patriarchal society took place. The beginning of metallurgy in Khijovia gave rise to the cultures of the Copper Age: the [[Venatorian]] culture arose in the north, the [[Khantan]] culture in the east and the [[Koritian]] culture in the central-south. The Bronze Age instead led to the development of the [[Xomian]] culture on the island of [[Axiomia]], while the Iron Age gave birth to the [[Kleitite]] culture on the mouth of the [[Thevre]] river. All of these cultures were descendants of the [[Acreatic]] people, therefore they all had the same language but different dialects, very rarely unintelligible to each other.
The advent of agriculture and livestock, providing a surplus of food, led to a significant demographic increase and the emergence of the first housing agglomerations. During this phase, the matriarchy gradually faded as the need for male military leaders arose to defend villages, ushering in a transition to a patriarchal society. The onset of metallurgy in Khijovia marked the Copper Age, giving rise to distinct cultures: the [[Venatorian]] culture in the north, [[Khantan]] culture in the east, and [[Koritian]] culture in the central-south. The Bronze Age saw the emergence of the [[Xomian]] culture on [[Axiomia]] island, while the Iron Age gave rise to the [[Kleitite]] culture near the mouth of the [[Thevre]] river. These cultures, stemming from the [[Acreatic]] people, shared a common language but spoke different dialects, often unintelligible to one another.


Starting from around 1400 BR, the large village centers would have evolved into real cities, and a relationship of interdependence would have begun to be created between the city and the surrounding countryside: the farmlands produced the goods that are used to feed the urban center, and the latter ensured a defense for the rural villages. The development of job specialization would eventually lead to a social hierarchy, at the top of which resided the ruling class of specialists, the future aristocratic caste.
Around 1400 BR, the large village centers evolved into cities, establishing an interdependent relationship with the surrounding countryside. Rural areas produced goods to sustain urban centers, while the cities provided defense for villages. Job specialization's development led to a social hierarchy, with the ruling class of specialists forming the foundation for the future aristocratic caste.


===Era of Ruin===
===Era of Ruin===
====Archaic Age====
Urban centers within the Khijovian region manifested as independent and self-sustaining city-states, flourishing predominantly throughout the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#Era_of_Ruin_-_985_BR_to_0_BR Era of Ruin] due to a robust isolationist policy. Despite their cultural and linguistic similarities, these city-states adopted diverse organizational structures.


To officially mark the beginning of Khijovian history was the epochal invention of writing by the [[Koritians]] around the year 1300 BR, founders of the city of [[Xoviah]] and considered the first to have used writing in the [[High West]]. Urban centers of the Khijovian region would take the form of independent and self-sustaining city-states and, thanks to a strong isolationist policy, would thrive for almost the entire duration of the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Sparkalia#Era_of_Ruin_-_985_BR_to_0_BR Era of Ruin]. These city-states, although culturally and linguistically similar, organized themselves into different types of states:
In certain locales, authority was wielded in the name of the deity by theocrats—priests perceived as those chosen by the gods to govern the city. In such cases, there existed no separation between political and religious power. The theocrat, serving as the executor of divine will, held full political authority, led the military, and administered justice. The sovereign received support from a caste of priest-officials known as hierarchs, convening every ten years to elect a new state theocrat and distribute cultivated lands among the populace. The temple of the eponymous divinity, aside from serving as the theocrat's seat, functioned as an organizational hub for work, a storage facility for foodstuffs, and the city's treasury. In these cities, private property was virtually nonexistent, as land was communal, and all residents contributed to public works.
Conversely, in some instances, this theocratic system devolved into viewing the theocrat not merely as the gods' representative but as a deity incarnate, whose sacralization justified their authority. The unbridled powers of the absolute theocrat found legitimacy in a powerful priestly caste of extensive landowners, exerting considerable influence in political affairs. The high priest within this caste assumed the role of grand vizier to the sovereign. Consequently, from a political standpoint, Khijovian absolute theocracy manifested as an autocratic form of governance fundamentally grounded in priestly legitimacy.


In some cities, power was exercised in the name of the deity by theocrats, the priests who were considered those whom the gods had destined to govern the city, and therefore there was no separation between political power and religious power. The theocrat, being the executor of the divine will, assumed full political authority, led the army, and administered justice. The sovereign was also supported by a caste of priest-officials, the hierarchs, who met every ten years in a general assembly to elect the new state theocrat among its members, and who distributed the lands to be cultivated among the population. The temple of the eponymous divinity, in addition to being the seat of the theocrat, served as a center for the organization of work, a warehouse for foodstuffs, and the place of the city's treasury. In these cities, private property was essentially unknown, as the lands belonged to the community and everyone contributed to public works. In other cases, however, this theocratic system would have degenerated in such a way that the theocrat was considered not only the representative of the gods, but was himself a god come down to earth whose sacralization legitimized the exercise of his power. To legitimize the unlimited powers of the absolute theocrat was the powerful priestly caste of large landowners who had a strong influence on political life and whose high priest served as grand vizier of the sovereign. Therefore, from a political point of view, the Khijovic absolute theocracy manifested itself in forms of autocratic government fundamentally based on priestly legitimacy.
On the other hand, certain cities evolved into monarchies, representing a likely progression from the theocratic system, wherein a clear distinction was established between political and religious authority. Concurrent with this separation of sovereign power, the kings in these city-states fortified their capacity to intervene in social and economic affairs, channeling their efforts in a more centralized manner. In certain instances, this consolidation of royal power also involved the adoption of an expansionist policy aimed at territorial enlargement.
These kingdoms adhered to a well-defined ideology of monarchical authority, a concept subsequently transmitted to subsequent state organizations in Khijovia. Similar to theocratic systems, it was believed that the gods endowed the sovereign with power; however, this divine gift, while acknowledged, was deemed distinct from religious authority. Consequently, this shift led to the displacement of the temple, formerly the governing center, with the royal palace assuming the pivotal role of power. In this organizational framework, citizens were regarded as mere subjects and possessions of the sovereign, although it is noteworthy that substantial privileges were reserved for the priestly class.


Other cities, on the other hand, turned out to be monarchies, the result of a probable evolution of the theocratic system, in which a distinction was made between political and religious power. In conjunction with this process of separation of sovereign power, the kings of these city-states strengthened their ability to intervene in social and economic life, directing their activities in a much more centralized way. In some cases, this action of consolidation of the royal power also entailed the assumption of an expansionist policy of conquest, aimed at enlarging the territory. These kingdoms rested on a well-defined ideology of monarchical power, which would also be transmitted to the subsequent state organizations of Khijovia, and similarly to theocracies, even here it was believed that the gods conferred power on the sovereign but that, although the result of a divine gift, the power of the king was separate from the religious one. This change therefore meant that the temple, hitherto the governing center of the state, was replaced as the fulcrum of power by the royal palace. In this state order, citizens were considered mere subjects and a possession of the sovereign, even if it should be emphasized that considerable privileges were in any case reserved for priests.
Certain city-states adopted a state structure founded on a timocratic principle, wherein landed or military aristocrats governed within a small general assembly known as the kledia (''klaēdïæ''). Exclusive to a particular caste, assembly members had the privilege of inheriting a seat of power. The kledia biennially elected seven specialized magistrates responsible for administrative, religious, and military functions. Upon concluding their terms, these magistrates joined the council of sapients - the ghrontia (''ghrœhntïæ'') - serving as both a supervisory body and the supreme court.
In addition to these aristocratic institutions, there existed the drarchia (''đrahrchïæ''), a minor consultative assembly representing some members of the less affluent population. In cities governed by aristocracy, the title of citizen, implying possession of political rights, was reserved for adult males who owned land. Among these citizens, only the large landowners held actual political power, qualifying them for high offices within the city. In an economy centered around agriculture and livestock, wealth was conspicuously measured by the extent of landownership. The considerable influence of the aristocracy severely constrained opportunities for small landowners and marginalized all other individuals within the city, subjecting them to aristocratic domination.


Some city-states would instead have based their state structure on a timocratic principle of landed or military aristocrats who ruled in a small general assembly, the kledia (''klaēdïæ''). The members of these assemblies were all part of an exclusive caste, and each of them could inherit a seat of power. The kledia elected every two years seven specialized magistrates who exercised administrative, religious, and military functions and who, once finished with their office, became part of the so-called council of sapients - the ghrontia (''ghrœhntïæ'') -, the supervisory body and supreme court.  In addition to these purely aristocratic institutions there was the drarchia (''đrahrchïæ''), a minor consultative assembly of some of the members of the less well-off classes of the population. In aristocratic cities, the title of citizen, which implied the possession of political rights, was the prerogative of adult males who owned the land, and among these, only the large landowners actually had political power, being able to aspire to the high offices of the city.  In an economy based on agriculture and livestock, wealth was evidently measured in the amount of land owned. The enormous power of the great aristocracy greatly limited the possibilities of small landowners and excluded all other individuals from the life of the city, subjecting them to their domination.
Finally, when a city-state was governed by its populace, it earned the designation of a "democratic" city. Democracy, emerging later in the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#League_Phase League Phase], evolved as a protracted process originating from the aristocratic system. Democratic transformations commenced with concessions from the aristocracy, aimed at averting popular revolts, which strengthened the people's influence within institutions. Over time, following a sequence of concessions, the drarchia, where the people asserted numerical superiority, ascended to become the paramount political entity, leading to the displacement of the kledia and ghrontia. Magistracies were drawn from all citizens except women, individuals from other cities, serfs, and slaves, while military and financial positions remained elective.
 
Citizens of democracies enjoyed equal rights to speak in the people's assembly and tribunal, alongside equal legal rights. Aristocrats, on the other hand, were largely excluded and marginalized, stripped of their extensive estates, barred from participating in political life, and, in certain instances, faced proscription lists calling for exile or possible elimination. These radical measures, indicative of demagogic populism adopted by the "democrats," led to some democracies being labeled kakistocracies by other city-states. Ultimately, Khijovian democracy never materialized in its pure form, existing as a hybrid balance resulting from the coexistence of different state forms.
Finally, when a city-state was governed by the people it was considered as a "democratic" city. Democracy was created later in time, towards the end of the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#League_Phase League Phase], and was the result of a long evolutionary process born from the aristocratic system. The democratic transformations began when, by concession from the aristocrats in order to avoid popular revolts, the weight of the people within the institutions was strengthened. Eventually, following a series of concessions, the drarchia in which the people could assert their numerical superiority would become the most important political body of the city and so the kledia was essentially deposed together with the ghrontia. The magistracies here were drawn among all citizens except women, people from other cities, serfs and slaves, while military and financial positions remained elective. Citizens of democracies, in addition to having equal right to speak in the people's assembly and tribunal, enjoyed equal legal rights, while aristocrats were essentially excluded and marginalized, dispossessed of their large estates, forbidden from participating in political life, and in some cases, proscription lists were put in place for their exile and their possible elimination. These very radical measures resulting in demagogic populism adopted by the "democrats" were such that some of the democracies were named kakistocracies by the other city-states. In the end, the Khijovic democracy was never realized in its purity as various elements of the other different state forms were co-present, and the democratic government was the result of a hybrid balance between the political forces that supported the various institutions of the city.
 
This forced coexistence of the vast array of different and conflicting state systems would somehow last for the entire [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#Archaic_Age Archaic Age] of Khijovian history, and although diplomatic relations between the different city-states would remain peaceful, clear political tensions would still pervade latently the souls of the cities, forcing them to conciliate through an intricate and dense network of alliance pacts and leagues, the only remedy to avoid a disastrous intranational war.
 
====Archaic Age====


This forced coexistence of diverse and conflicting state systems endured throughout the entirety of the [https://iiwiki.us/wiki/Khijovia#Archaic_Age Archaic Age] in Khijovian history. While diplomatic relations between city-states remained ostensibly peaceful, underlying political tensions lingered, compelling cities to reconcile through an intricate network of alliance pacts and leagues. This network served as the sole remedy to prevent disastrous intranational wars.
=====League Phase=====
=====League Phase=====


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===Physical Geography===
===Physical Geography===
[[File:PhysicalMap3.png|400px|thumb|left|Physical Map of Khijovia]] Belonging to a larger geographical region called the [[High West]], the Khijovian region features one of the most substantial ranges of landscapes of the [[Pelia|Pelian continent]]. Bordering the Kyldigardian region to the north, Khijovia is completely enclosed to the east by the [[Clastoclite mountain range|Clastoclite range]] and to the south by the [[Stornic massif]].
[[File:PhysicalMap3.png|400px|thumb|left|Physical Map of Khijovia]] Situated within the expansive geographical region known as the [[High West]], the Khijovian landscape showcases diverse features, making it one of the most varied regions on the [[Pelia|Pelian continent]]. Bordered by the Kyldegardian region to the north, Khijovia is geographically enclosed by the imposing [[Clastoclite range]] to the east and the formidable [[Stornic massif]] to the south.


The Khijovian soil, slightly anthropized, has a wide range of characteristics and has a prevalence of hilly areas compared to mountainous and flat zones, with the average altitude of the territory of about 630 meters above sea level.The mountain ranges extend throughout the eastern part of the nation, in fact a good part of the western side of the [[Clastoclite mountain range|Clastoclite system]] belongs to Khijovia. The highest Khijovian peaks are found in the central [[Clastoclite mountain range|Clastoclites]], where there are numerous peaks exceeding 4500m including [[Mount Eletherium]] (4910m), the highest mountain in the [[Clastoclite mountain range|Clastoclite range]]. The Khijovian mountainous territory has also been shaped over time by an ancient glacial mass dating back to the Cenozoic which has left long moraines flanking the western Clastoclite slope, forming in the meantime also wide higlands in the north and a multitude of shallow valleys among the southern hills. [[File:TopographicMap1.png|400px|thumb|right|Topographic Map of Khijovia]]
The Khijovian terrain exhibits a broad spectrum of characteristics, with a prevalence of hilly areas compared to flat or mountainous zones, maintaining an average altitude of approximately 730 meters above sea level. The mountainous landscapes extend across the eastern expanse of the nation, encompassing a significant portion of the western [[Clastoclite system]]. The highest peaks in Khijovia are situated in the central [[Clastoclites]], where numerous summits exceed 4500 meters, including the remarkable [[Mount Eletherium]] (5790 meters), standing as the loftiest peak in the [[Clastoclite range]]. Over time, the Khijovian mountainous region has been shaped by an ancient Cenozoic glacial mass, leaving behind extensive moraines flanking the western Clastoclite slope, forming expansive highlands in the north and numerous shallow valleys amidst the southern hills. [[File:TopographicMap1.png|400px|thumb|right|Topographic Map of Khijovia]]


The plains of Khijovia include the [[Catridian plain]], an alluvial expanse formed by the [[Thevre]] river and its tributaries which extends up to [[Pyrisia]], the [[Betronic plains]], uplift plains along the coasts of [[Androvia]] and of [[Charonthia]], and finally the [[Platic plain]], an oblong flat valley of tectonic type which surrounds the [[Axiomia Lake]] and which runs from [[Cassiopia]] to [[Carcassionia]].
The plains of Khijovia encompass various areas, including the [[Catridian plain]], formed by the alluvial expanses of the [[Thevre]] river and its tributaries, extending to [[Pyrisia]]; the [[Betronic plains]], elevated plains along the coasts of [[Androvia]] and [[Charonthia]]; and the [[Platic plain]], an elongated flat valley of tectonic origin encircling the [[Axiomia Lake]], stretching from [[Cassiopia]] to [[Carcassonia]].


Most of the Khijovian isles are collected in small archipelagos, such as [[Cheronia]] off the Charonthic coasts and [[Recondia]], a polar archipelago lying within a deep lagoon connected to the [[Wintry Ocean]] and surrounded entirely by ice cap glaciers.
Numerous Khijovian isles are grouped in small archipelagos, such as [[Cheronia]] off the Charonthic coasts, and [[Recondia]], a polar archipelago situated within a deep lagoon connected to the [[Wintry Ocean]], entirely surrounded by ice cap glaciers.


===Geology===
===Geology===
The geological history of Khijovia is intricately shaped by ancient geo-dynamic events, primarily the collision between two lithospheric plates—the [[Kesperian plate]] and the [[northern Pelian plate]]—commencing from the Late Cenozoic. This collision, involving the eastern Kesperian margin and the Pelian continent, resulted in the formation of the [[Clastoclites|Clastoclitic chain]] and the accretion of marginal microplates.
Noteworthy Neogene volcanism and a relatively high seismicity highlight the region's ongoing geo-dynamic activity, marking it as one of the most geologically active areas in [[Pelia]]. After extensive studies spanning a century, geologists identify two primary paleogeographic domains separated by the [[Clastoclites|Clastoclitic line]]: the Pelian domain, specifically the western accreted margin of the northern Pelian plate, and the Kesperian domain, encompassing the entirety of the [[High West]] and the [[Kesper Sea|Kesperian]] marine basin. The [[High West|High Western]] domain comprises a system of Kesperian vergence nappes, predominantly composed of carbonate and mixed sequences, extending southward into the [[Stornic massif]], positioned along a tectonic line distinct from the [[Clastoclites|Clastoclitic]] line.
From a stratigraphic perspective, sedimentary rocks in northern Khijovia, dating based on paleontological content, span from the Precambrian to the Quaternary. Low-grade metamorphites in the southeastern region, characterized by sandstones alternating with pelites, are dated approximately to the Cambrian. However, the majority of the sedimentary cover in Khijovia postdates the Paleozoic era.
The geological complexity of this region, featuring a diverse array of geological characters within a relatively small area and numerous active endogenous and exogenous phenomena, positions Khijovia as a significant contributor to the geological understanding of north-western [[Pelia]].


====Volcanism====
====Volcanism====
Khijovia, a country marked by significant volcanic and plutonic activity, bears the imprint of this geological dynamism across its landscape. Predominantly, the presence of a convergent boundary between accreted microplates to the north has given rise to the most active volcanoes in the [[High West]]. This collisional interaction induces subduction of the [[Charonthia|Charonthic]] crustal plate, leading to its progressive fusion within the mantle and the ascent of magmas through the crust to the surface, notably manifested by the volcanoes in the [[Cheronia|Cheronian Archipelago]].
The evidence of volcanic activity spans from Palaeozoic rocks to the present era, manifesting not only in visibly distinct volcanic bodies on the mainland but also in features such as lakes, islands, widespread rocks of effusive volcanic origin, and various endogenous activities linked to the presence of molten or cooling magma near the surface. These include hot thermal springs, hot muds, fumaroles, and CO2-rich springs. Ongoing oceanographic research indicates the continuation of extensive volcanic phenomena in the underwater environment.
Prominent among the persistent eruptive centers in Khijovia are [[Mount Rhont]] (960m), [[Mount Stronio]] (820m), [[Mount Sibon]] (1,780m), and [[Mount Kratov]] (1,030m). While the first two, located in [[Cheronia]], exhibit explosive-type eruptions, the latter two, situated in [[Atredia]] and [[Garganthia]], erupt effusively. Due to their proximity to densely populated areas, active Khijovian volcanoes are closely monitored by national authorities.
Numerous other volcanic centers have witnessed eruptions in historical or geologically recent times. Dormant volcanoes, such as [[Mount Rhetron]] (680m) off the coast of [[Pletoria]], [[Pyrisia]], and [[Mount Ascarion]] (740m) at the southern tip of the [[Chondia|Chondian peninsula]], have seen activity. Additionally, several underwater volcanoes remain active in the [[Kesper Sea]]. Notably, the [[Coprion]], situated approximately ten miles west of the mouth of the [[Thevre river]], rises 1,670 meters from the seabed, with its summit only three hundred meters below the water's surface. Although the volcano last erupted thousands of years ago, its active status and potential for triggering a significant tsunami through a collapse of the volcanic edifice warrant continued consideration and monitoring.


====Seismic Activity====
====Seismology====
 
The Khijovian territory, due to its unique geodynamic setting resulting from the convergence of the [[Kesperian plate]] with the [[Pelian plate]], experiences frequent earthquakes, holding the record in the [[High West]] for such phenomena. The majority of destructive earthquakes in the region have notably impacted Khijovia. Focal movement analysis reveals their predominant distribution along areas influenced by [[Clastoclites|Clastoclitic tectonics]], where fault movements play a significant role. In the eastern [[Kesper Sea]], hypocenter distribution, reaching depths of 500 kilometers, indicates the presence of a Benioff plane resulting from the subduction of the [[Kesper Sea|Kesperian lithosphere]]. The most powerful earthquake documented in Khijovia, measuring 8.1 in magnitude, occurred on December 25, 1532, along the central [[Clastoclites]], causing widespread destruction and fatalities across much of eastern Khijovia.
 
====Georesources====
 
From a mineral perspective, Khijovia boasts numerous deposits, including mercury, antimony, lead, zinc, silver, iron, manganese, and industrial minerals like pyrite, fluorite, asbestos, and bauxite. While various deposits exist, economically exploitable ones, given current Khijovian technology, are relatively limited. Notable mining activities involve evaporitic salts, cement marls, clays, and feldspars for ceramic and refractory industries. The extraction of marble, pumice, obsidian, talc, and coal, a crucial fossil fuel powering the national [[Aethermotive|aethermotives]], is also significant.
 
Khijovia possesses abundant natural outcrops of bitumen, oil, and methane, suggesting favorable geological conditions for hydrocarbon genesis and accumulation. The country initiated hydrocarbon exploration shortly after the first contemporary oil well was drilled in [[Kyldigard]], evolving into extensive research, exploration, and production activities of natural hydrocarbons.
 
Khijovia hosts the largest hydrocarbon reserves in the [[High West]], distributed across three tectonic-stratigraphic and geochemical systems: biogenic methane in Plio-Pleistocene terrigenous series, thermogenic gas in Oligo-Miocene foredeep terrigenous sediments, and oil within Mesozoic carbonate series. Presently, annual oil production stands at approximately thirty thousand barrels, with an estimated billion barrels yet to be discovered in deposits.


===Hydrography===
===Hydrography===
Line 218: Line 243:


===Ecosystem===
===Ecosystem===
Thanks to its rich geographical diversity, the Khijovian region hosts a varied collection of unique biomes that make the national territory one of the most characteristic and peculiar of the whole of [[Pelia]], presenting an articulated biotic whole that makes the Khijovian ecosystem so very fascinating and highly biodiverse.
The Khijovian region, with its rich geographical diversity, harbors a distinctive collection of unique biomes, rendering the national territory one of the most characteristic and biodiverse in the entirety of [[Pelia]]. This intricate biotic ensemble contributes to the fascination and diversity of the Khijovian ecosystem.
 
====Biomes====
====Biomes====


====Flora====
====Flora====

Latest revision as of 15:07, 5 February 2024

Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia

Khıjovïænne Æšcaēe Raēgə
AscendedKingdom.svg.svg
Flag
CoatOfArms.png
Coat of arms
Motto: 
"Seþþə vīəra Raehxxa nīəva Matrïænne jmørrə"
"Love of the Motherland is our only Law"
Anthem: 
Khıjovïænne Aemınə Hyjnnə
The Praeclarus Khijovian AnthemMediaPlayer.png
Lands and surroundings of the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia, 1613 AR
Lands and surroundings of the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia, 1613 AR
CapitalKleitore
LargestXoviah
Official languagesKhijovian
Recognised regional languagesTeutorian, Aldorian, Koritian
Ethnic groups
Humans (100%)
Religion
Aravianism
Demonym(s)Khijovian
GovernmentFeudalistic Constitutional Monarchy
• Ascended King of Khijovia
Arcadion II
• Ascended Queen of Khijovia
Carevia I
LegislatureRoyal Parliament
Establishment
• Foundation of the Ascended Kingdom
July 3, 1607 AR
Area
• Land Area
1,386,546 km2 (535,348 sq mi)
• Water (%)
3,8
Population
• 1613 AR estimate
51,085,900
GDP (nominal)estimate
• Total
$ 225,000,000,000.00
• Per capita
$ 4,405.00
CurrencyShonnenor (SHN)
Date formatdd/mm/yy
Driving sideright

Khijovia (Khijovian: Khıjovïæ [kɪjəʊviə]), officially the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia, is a feudalistic constitutional monarchy situated in northwestern Pelia, with Kleitore serving as its capital. It shares its borders with the Federated People's Republic of Kyldigard to the north and the Kingdom of Prestore to the south, while the Kesper Sea lies to the west. With a population of approximately 51 million inhabitants, Khijovia occupies the northern part of the High West region and holds the Recondian Archipelago in the Wintry Ocean. Established in 1607 AR by Arcadion II following the collapse of the Khijovian Federation and the return of the Zenonian Dynasty, the Ascended Kingdom is divided into 27 fiefdoms and a special administrative district. Known for its deeply spiritual society, Khijovia has maintained a unique connection with the magical arts throughout its history.


Etymology

The origin of the name Khijovia has long intrigued linguists and historians, prompting diverse reconstructions. While some theories delve into etymological roots, others are steeped in historical narratives, including the intriguing notion of an ancient pre-Shuffle king named Khjvonnə in popular traditions.

One prevalent theory suggests that the name stems from Khyjvīə, an exoethnonym used by the Koritians for a tribe residing in the neighboring Aldoria region. Another hypothesis, not mutually exclusive, proposes that these people venerated a pagan deity, Khœvă, making the name signify "inhabitants of the land of Khœvă."

Alternatively, a distinct theory posits a simpler origin—the semantic fusion of Khvıəyūtœnnə, an adjective linked to the Kveutonian Empire, and Jyovïæhnnə, associated with the Jovianic Order and its doctrine.

History

During ancient times, Khijovia served as a crossroads for numerous neolithic cultures. Thriving city-states emerged during the Era of Ruin, preserving their cultural identity and language staunchly against external influences. Notwithstanding the upheavals in the rest of Sparkalia, Khijovia remained isolated, relatively unaffected by wars and famines until the catastrophic Abheric Wars and the subsequent collapse of the city-state system around 277 BR, ushering in the Barren Age and marking the end of the Archaic Age in Khijovian history. Despite suffering continental amnesia during the Great Shuffle, Khijovian culture persisted.

In 289 AR, the Kveutonian civilization conquered and divided Khijovia into governatorates, making it a crucial economic and cultural hub within the Kveutonian Empire. The empire reached its zenith around 415 but dissolved in 502, leading to the formation of independent statelets and religious-monastic military orders, including the influential Jovianic Order. Over the centuries, cities transformed into feudal lordships, giving rise to Khijovian principalities, duchies, counties, and marquisates.

The Grand Duke of Klettoria, Zenon the Great, initiated a national unification campaign in 1152, defeating the rival House of Arenia and establishing the Kingdom of Khijovia on July 11, 1161. Despite centuries of rule, the Zenonian Dynasty faced a coup on January 28, 1534, leading to the formation of the Khijovian Federation. However, in 1607, with the return of the Zenonian Dynasty, Prince Arcadion II reclaimed power, founding the Ascended Kingdom of Khijovia on July 3, 1607.

Primordial Aeon

Prehistory

Approximately 35,000 years ago, the first known inhabitants of the Khijovian territory were the Acreatics, a nomadic civilization whose existence is primarily evidenced by the archaeological site of Yvernia along today's Pletorian coasts. Yvernia preserves remnants of an intricate funerary complex, featuring over 20 tombs with associated burial items. The Acreatics had distinctive burial practices, arranging skeletons with heads facing East—a potential symbol of rebirth. Skulls were adorned with red ocher, signifying a return of blood and life to the deceased. The complex walls displayed propitiatory rock paintings, depicting shamanic rituals.

Burial for the Acreatics was a magical rite, aimed at preventing the disturbance of the deceased's soul and facilitating its transition to new life. This culture marked the initial encounters with magical arts in the Khijovian region. The prevalence of Venus figurines in the tombs hints at a matriarchal social organization, emphasizing women's connection to fertility and reproduction.

Despite the Neolithic agricultural revolution, the Acreatics maintained their reliance on hunting and shellfish gathering. Around the twelfth millennium BR, climatic shifts prompted their migration from coasts to surrounding regions. The mountainous terrain led to the development of transhumant farming, eventually giving way to settled agriculture. This marked the end of nomadism and the permanent settlement of the Acreatic people across the Khijovian region.

Protohistory

The advent of agriculture and livestock, providing a surplus of food, led to a significant demographic increase and the emergence of the first housing agglomerations. During this phase, the matriarchy gradually faded as the need for male military leaders arose to defend villages, ushering in a transition to a patriarchal society. The onset of metallurgy in Khijovia marked the Copper Age, giving rise to distinct cultures: the Venatorian culture in the north, Khantan culture in the east, and Koritian culture in the central-south. The Bronze Age saw the emergence of the Xomian culture on Axiomia island, while the Iron Age gave rise to the Kleitite culture near the mouth of the Thevre river. These cultures, stemming from the Acreatic people, shared a common language but spoke different dialects, often unintelligible to one another.

Around 1400 BR, the large village centers evolved into cities, establishing an interdependent relationship with the surrounding countryside. Rural areas produced goods to sustain urban centers, while the cities provided defense for villages. Job specialization's development led to a social hierarchy, with the ruling class of specialists forming the foundation for the future aristocratic caste.

Era of Ruin

Archaic Age

Urban centers within the Khijovian region manifested as independent and self-sustaining city-states, flourishing predominantly throughout the Era of Ruin due to a robust isolationist policy. Despite their cultural and linguistic similarities, these city-states adopted diverse organizational structures.

In certain locales, authority was wielded in the name of the deity by theocrats—priests perceived as those chosen by the gods to govern the city. In such cases, there existed no separation between political and religious power. The theocrat, serving as the executor of divine will, held full political authority, led the military, and administered justice. The sovereign received support from a caste of priest-officials known as hierarchs, convening every ten years to elect a new state theocrat and distribute cultivated lands among the populace. The temple of the eponymous divinity, aside from serving as the theocrat's seat, functioned as an organizational hub for work, a storage facility for foodstuffs, and the city's treasury. In these cities, private property was virtually nonexistent, as land was communal, and all residents contributed to public works. Conversely, in some instances, this theocratic system devolved into viewing the theocrat not merely as the gods' representative but as a deity incarnate, whose sacralization justified their authority. The unbridled powers of the absolute theocrat found legitimacy in a powerful priestly caste of extensive landowners, exerting considerable influence in political affairs. The high priest within this caste assumed the role of grand vizier to the sovereign. Consequently, from a political standpoint, Khijovian absolute theocracy manifested as an autocratic form of governance fundamentally grounded in priestly legitimacy.

On the other hand, certain cities evolved into monarchies, representing a likely progression from the theocratic system, wherein a clear distinction was established between political and religious authority. Concurrent with this separation of sovereign power, the kings in these city-states fortified their capacity to intervene in social and economic affairs, channeling their efforts in a more centralized manner. In certain instances, this consolidation of royal power also involved the adoption of an expansionist policy aimed at territorial enlargement. These kingdoms adhered to a well-defined ideology of monarchical authority, a concept subsequently transmitted to subsequent state organizations in Khijovia. Similar to theocratic systems, it was believed that the gods endowed the sovereign with power; however, this divine gift, while acknowledged, was deemed distinct from religious authority. Consequently, this shift led to the displacement of the temple, formerly the governing center, with the royal palace assuming the pivotal role of power. In this organizational framework, citizens were regarded as mere subjects and possessions of the sovereign, although it is noteworthy that substantial privileges were reserved for the priestly class.

Certain city-states adopted a state structure founded on a timocratic principle, wherein landed or military aristocrats governed within a small general assembly known as the kledia (klaēdïæ). Exclusive to a particular caste, assembly members had the privilege of inheriting a seat of power. The kledia biennially elected seven specialized magistrates responsible for administrative, religious, and military functions. Upon concluding their terms, these magistrates joined the council of sapients - the ghrontia (ghrœhntïæ) - serving as both a supervisory body and the supreme court. In addition to these aristocratic institutions, there existed the drarchia (đrahrchïæ), a minor consultative assembly representing some members of the less affluent population. In cities governed by aristocracy, the title of citizen, implying possession of political rights, was reserved for adult males who owned land. Among these citizens, only the large landowners held actual political power, qualifying them for high offices within the city. In an economy centered around agriculture and livestock, wealth was conspicuously measured by the extent of landownership. The considerable influence of the aristocracy severely constrained opportunities for small landowners and marginalized all other individuals within the city, subjecting them to aristocratic domination.

Finally, when a city-state was governed by its populace, it earned the designation of a "democratic" city. Democracy, emerging later in the League Phase, evolved as a protracted process originating from the aristocratic system. Democratic transformations commenced with concessions from the aristocracy, aimed at averting popular revolts, which strengthened the people's influence within institutions. Over time, following a sequence of concessions, the drarchia, where the people asserted numerical superiority, ascended to become the paramount political entity, leading to the displacement of the kledia and ghrontia. Magistracies were drawn from all citizens except women, individuals from other cities, serfs, and slaves, while military and financial positions remained elective. Citizens of democracies enjoyed equal rights to speak in the people's assembly and tribunal, alongside equal legal rights. Aristocrats, on the other hand, were largely excluded and marginalized, stripped of their extensive estates, barred from participating in political life, and, in certain instances, faced proscription lists calling for exile or possible elimination. These radical measures, indicative of demagogic populism adopted by the "democrats," led to some democracies being labeled kakistocracies by other city-states. Ultimately, Khijovian democracy never materialized in its pure form, existing as a hybrid balance resulting from the coexistence of different state forms.

This forced coexistence of diverse and conflicting state systems endured throughout the entirety of the Archaic Age in Khijovian history. While diplomatic relations between city-states remained ostensibly peaceful, underlying political tensions lingered, compelling cities to reconcile through an intricate network of alliance pacts and leagues. This network served as the sole remedy to prevent disastrous intranational wars.

League Phase
Abheric Wars

Barren Age

Khijovic Middle Ages
Syhric Advent

Nova Antiquity

Kveutonian Age

Jovianic Domination

Modern Era

Surgence Epoch

Zenonian Age

Khijovian Renascence
Koronian Civil War

Contemporary Age

Federalist Parenthesis

Ascension Period

Geography

Physical Geography

Physical Map of Khijovia

Situated within the expansive geographical region known as the High West, the Khijovian landscape showcases diverse features, making it one of the most varied regions on the Pelian continent. Bordered by the Kyldegardian region to the north, Khijovia is geographically enclosed by the imposing Clastoclite range to the east and the formidable Stornic massif to the south. The Khijovian terrain exhibits a broad spectrum of characteristics, with a prevalence of hilly areas compared to flat or mountainous zones, maintaining an average altitude of approximately 730 meters above sea level. The mountainous landscapes extend across the eastern expanse of the nation, encompassing a significant portion of the western Clastoclite system. The highest peaks in Khijovia are situated in the central Clastoclites, where numerous summits exceed 4500 meters, including the remarkable Mount Eletherium (5790 meters), standing as the loftiest peak in the Clastoclite range. Over time, the Khijovian mountainous region has been shaped by an ancient Cenozoic glacial mass, leaving behind extensive moraines flanking the western Clastoclite slope, forming expansive highlands in the north and numerous shallow valleys amidst the southern hills.

Topographic Map of Khijovia

The plains of Khijovia encompass various areas, including the Catridian plain, formed by the alluvial expanses of the Thevre river and its tributaries, extending to Pyrisia; the Betronic plains, elevated plains along the coasts of Androvia and Charonthia; and the Platic plain, an elongated flat valley of tectonic origin encircling the Axiomia Lake, stretching from Cassiopia to Carcassonia.

Numerous Khijovian isles are grouped in small archipelagos, such as Cheronia off the Charonthic coasts, and Recondia, a polar archipelago situated within a deep lagoon connected to the Wintry Ocean, entirely surrounded by ice cap glaciers.

Geology

The geological history of Khijovia is intricately shaped by ancient geo-dynamic events, primarily the collision between two lithospheric plates—the Kesperian plate and the northern Pelian plate—commencing from the Late Cenozoic. This collision, involving the eastern Kesperian margin and the Pelian continent, resulted in the formation of the Clastoclitic chain and the accretion of marginal microplates.

Noteworthy Neogene volcanism and a relatively high seismicity highlight the region's ongoing geo-dynamic activity, marking it as one of the most geologically active areas in Pelia. After extensive studies spanning a century, geologists identify two primary paleogeographic domains separated by the Clastoclitic line: the Pelian domain, specifically the western accreted margin of the northern Pelian plate, and the Kesperian domain, encompassing the entirety of the High West and the Kesperian marine basin. The High Western domain comprises a system of Kesperian vergence nappes, predominantly composed of carbonate and mixed sequences, extending southward into the Stornic massif, positioned along a tectonic line distinct from the Clastoclitic line.

From a stratigraphic perspective, sedimentary rocks in northern Khijovia, dating based on paleontological content, span from the Precambrian to the Quaternary. Low-grade metamorphites in the southeastern region, characterized by sandstones alternating with pelites, are dated approximately to the Cambrian. However, the majority of the sedimentary cover in Khijovia postdates the Paleozoic era.

The geological complexity of this region, featuring a diverse array of geological characters within a relatively small area and numerous active endogenous and exogenous phenomena, positions Khijovia as a significant contributor to the geological understanding of north-western Pelia.

Volcanism

Khijovia, a country marked by significant volcanic and plutonic activity, bears the imprint of this geological dynamism across its landscape. Predominantly, the presence of a convergent boundary between accreted microplates to the north has given rise to the most active volcanoes in the High West. This collisional interaction induces subduction of the Charonthic crustal plate, leading to its progressive fusion within the mantle and the ascent of magmas through the crust to the surface, notably manifested by the volcanoes in the Cheronian Archipelago.

The evidence of volcanic activity spans from Palaeozoic rocks to the present era, manifesting not only in visibly distinct volcanic bodies on the mainland but also in features such as lakes, islands, widespread rocks of effusive volcanic origin, and various endogenous activities linked to the presence of molten or cooling magma near the surface. These include hot thermal springs, hot muds, fumaroles, and CO2-rich springs. Ongoing oceanographic research indicates the continuation of extensive volcanic phenomena in the underwater environment.

Prominent among the persistent eruptive centers in Khijovia are Mount Rhont (960m), Mount Stronio (820m), Mount Sibon (1,780m), and Mount Kratov (1,030m). While the first two, located in Cheronia, exhibit explosive-type eruptions, the latter two, situated in Atredia and Garganthia, erupt effusively. Due to their proximity to densely populated areas, active Khijovian volcanoes are closely monitored by national authorities.

Numerous other volcanic centers have witnessed eruptions in historical or geologically recent times. Dormant volcanoes, such as Mount Rhetron (680m) off the coast of Pletoria, Pyrisia, and Mount Ascarion (740m) at the southern tip of the Chondian peninsula, have seen activity. Additionally, several underwater volcanoes remain active in the Kesper Sea. Notably, the Coprion, situated approximately ten miles west of the mouth of the Thevre river, rises 1,670 meters from the seabed, with its summit only three hundred meters below the water's surface. Although the volcano last erupted thousands of years ago, its active status and potential for triggering a significant tsunami through a collapse of the volcanic edifice warrant continued consideration and monitoring.

Seismology

The Khijovian territory, due to its unique geodynamic setting resulting from the convergence of the Kesperian plate with the Pelian plate, experiences frequent earthquakes, holding the record in the High West for such phenomena. The majority of destructive earthquakes in the region have notably impacted Khijovia. Focal movement analysis reveals their predominant distribution along areas influenced by Clastoclitic tectonics, where fault movements play a significant role. In the eastern Kesper Sea, hypocenter distribution, reaching depths of 500 kilometers, indicates the presence of a Benioff plane resulting from the subduction of the Kesperian lithosphere. The most powerful earthquake documented in Khijovia, measuring 8.1 in magnitude, occurred on December 25, 1532, along the central Clastoclites, causing widespread destruction and fatalities across much of eastern Khijovia.

Georesources

From a mineral perspective, Khijovia boasts numerous deposits, including mercury, antimony, lead, zinc, silver, iron, manganese, and industrial minerals like pyrite, fluorite, asbestos, and bauxite. While various deposits exist, economically exploitable ones, given current Khijovian technology, are relatively limited. Notable mining activities involve evaporitic salts, cement marls, clays, and feldspars for ceramic and refractory industries. The extraction of marble, pumice, obsidian, talc, and coal, a crucial fossil fuel powering the national aethermotives, is also significant.

Khijovia possesses abundant natural outcrops of bitumen, oil, and methane, suggesting favorable geological conditions for hydrocarbon genesis and accumulation. The country initiated hydrocarbon exploration shortly after the first contemporary oil well was drilled in Kyldigard, evolving into extensive research, exploration, and production activities of natural hydrocarbons.

Khijovia hosts the largest hydrocarbon reserves in the High West, distributed across three tectonic-stratigraphic and geochemical systems: biogenic methane in Plio-Pleistocene terrigenous series, thermogenic gas in Oligo-Miocene foredeep terrigenous sediments, and oil within Mesozoic carbonate series. Presently, annual oil production stands at approximately thirty thousand barrels, with an estimated billion barrels yet to be discovered in deposits.

Hydrography

Climate

Meteorology

Ecosystem

The Khijovian region, with its rich geographical diversity, harbors a distinctive collection of unique biomes, rendering the national territory one of the most characteristic and biodiverse in the entirety of Pelia. This intricate biotic ensemble contributes to the fascination and diversity of the Khijovian ecosystem.

Biomes

Flora

Fauna

Politics

State Structure

Administrative Regions

Region Map of the Khijovian Administrative Regions
1 Klettoria KhijovianRegions3.png
2 Luriah
3 Pyrisia
4 Qaylasiah
5 Atredia
6 Chondia
7 Charonthia
8 Androvia
9 Ketheria
10 Iverniah
11 Kharpovia
12 Venatoria
13 Profania
14 Koritia
15 Bellatoria
16 Cassiopia
17 Corkovia
18 Aldoria
19 Teutoria
20 Garganthia
21 Kalkhovia
22 Carcassonia
23 Sopholenia
24 Karkarovia
25 Kenveciah
26 Akrocanthia
27 Recondia
* Axiomia

Foreign Relations

Military

Great Bordeaux Army

Royal Navy

Grand Air Force

Royal Gendarmerie

Royal Force of the Border Guards
Royal Force of the Carabineers
Royal Force of the Brigadiers of Public Security

Society

Economy

Culture