Malletia, Of Dragons and Highlands

Tiamat Aftermath
During the Tiamat Crisis, the Mallette family were valiant defenders of Bordeaux. As wave after wave of draconic beasts descended from the Ankor Peaks into the mainland of Bordeaux, the Mallettes would fight viscous battles were many of the direct line were slain by the beasts. They defended the west alone, with no support from the Grand Duchess as she and her forces were occupied with the north and east. The Mallette family by the end of the conflict was destroyed, no heirs to take up the mantle. The leaders that rose up after the crisis naturally distanced themselves from Bordeaux.

Overview
Bordeaux is still known as the realm of the Horselords, but in the recent decades Malletia has become the realm of the Dragonlords. The mountains hosue mant draconic beasts, good and evil, in its tall peaks and deep valleys. One can imagine the Malletians as hardy, gruff folk that live lives of hard work. Wearing thick skins, furs and leathers. No finary silks or cotton like their neighbours. Its people's hands are rough and worked, even the nobles.

Dragons: The Malletians have an accute experiance with dragons and dragonkin. Many have to rise up and protect their homes when a dragon assults thier town. Dragon hunt commisions are enacted so bands of brave adventurers or soldiers traverse through the mountains in search of dragons to slay. While dragon hunting is a common way of life here, so is dragon covenants.

Covenants: A covenant between ones self and a dragon is a mutual benefit agreement. Or favor exchange. Either one showers the dragon in treasures such as gold, jewels or whatever else the beasts covets. Another is to take revenge on another dragon that has wronged the the one you are trying to form a covenant with. Only the wealthiest, or strongest obviously are able to form covenants with these draconic beasts.

Economy and Culture
While life is harsh is Malletia, having to deal with dragons, giants, trolls etc, the land holds much wealth and ruined keeps that many call their homes. Abandoned castles make comfy homes for nobles and communes of peasents. The mountains hold many riches. Outcasted dwarves often find a home here working in the mines, often leading the charge in new discoveries beneath the earth.

Dragonborn: With the mass exodus of dragonborn from the fallen realm of Sanctus, various clans live nomadic lives here. Either aiding the Malletians in their dragon hunts or covenants. Also paid handsomly as mercenaries when wartime comes to the borders of Malletia. Its not uncommon to see dragonborn bodygaurds of nobles.

Politics, Perception and Magic
Malletia has hostile neighbours on all sides. Its no stranger to war or spies. While outside politics are always tense, inside its borders everyone looks out for each other. No noble tries to outpace the other. They motivate and encourage each other to be braver, faster and smater. This sense of comradery is very rare to see in the current state of the world. Though they don't share this same hospitality with newcomers.

Dragon Magic: With the world wide inquisition of mages, its not common to find any spellcasters here in Malletia. Most often or not, ones gifted with arcane abilities have them due to their covenants with a dragon or the few earthly spirits that watch the mountains here.