On the fractured world of Hodgepocalypse Earth, the rise of
the Maritime Compact stands as a testament to history's relentless cycle. Once
a ragtag collection of desperate settlements clinging to survival in a world
torn asunder, the Compact has been forged into a fledgling nation, rooted in
the enduring principles of prosperity and mutual defense. Drawing inspiration
from the founding of Canada, the last decade has seen the mouth of the St.
Lawrence transformed into a formidable bulwark, now known as the Atlantic
Stronghold—a bastion where unity and resilience are stronger than the sum of
their parts.
History of the Maritime Compact
The Prelude to the Hodgepocalypse - Rising Tensions and Globalization
- The
Maritimes, like much of the world, experienced the dual-edged sword of
globalization. Industries such as fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism
flourished, yet faced mounting pressures from international competition
and environmental degradation. The region's governments took steps to
address these challenges, investing in infrastructure to protect coastal
communities from the growing threats posed by climate change, including
rising sea levels and increasingly severe storms.
Technological Advancements and Sociopolitical Strain
- As
technology advanced, the region saw a transformation in energy production,
with offshore wind and tidal energy projects turning the Maritimes into a
hub for renewable resources. However, economic inequality and political
fragmentation created deep divisions, both within the Maritimes and across
Canada. Meanwhile, early signs of magical anomalies began to appear,
dismissed by most as hoaxes or inexplicable natural phenomena.
The Hodgepocalypse - The Cataclysmic Blast of Magic
- A
cataclysmic event, known as the Hodgepocalypse, erupted across the world,
unleashing an unprecedented surge of magic that shattered reality itself.
The Maritimes were devastated as technology faltered, landscapes
transformed into twisted magical realms, and the very fabric of nature
unraveled. The resulting chaos left the region in disarray, with
communities isolated and struggling to survive in a world where magic was
both a blessing and a curse.
The Fall of Civilization
- The
collapse of civilization was swift and brutal. Nations fell, cities
crumbled, and the remnants of society scattered into isolated enclaves. In
the Maritimes, survival became a desperate fight against the forces
unleashed by the Hodgepocalypse. The sudden appearance of the Rock, a
long-hidden Newfoundland wizard colony, further exacerbated tensions as it
claimed vast swathes of land, splitting the east coast and sowing
resentment among those who saw their homes and livelihoods halved by its
reemergence.
The Necromantic Wars
The Rise of Necromancy
- Amidst
the chaos, a dark force known as The Corpseman emerged, wielding forbidden
necromantic powers to raise armies of the dead. The Maritimes became a
war-torn battleground, with once-thriving cities like Halifax and Moncton
transformed into fortified bastions against the undead. Survivors were
forced to adapt, combining traditional survival skills with newly
discovered magical abilities, particularly through the creation of
Faustian Mechanics—a potent fusion of technology and magic critical in the
struggle against the necromancers.
The End of the Necromantic Wars
- The
Necromantic Wars raged on for years, leaving the region scarred and its
population drastically reduced. The alliance of surviving communities,
aided by the wizards of the Rock, the DPP, and even the enigmatic
Desecrators from the Fiend Marches, ultimately defeated the necromancers
in a decisive but costly battle. With much of the region in ruins, the
survivors turned their focus to rebuilding and ensuring such a catastrophe
could never be repeated.
Rebuilding and Federation
Reclaiming Civilization
- In
the aftermath of the wars, the survivors of the Maritimes began the
arduous task of rebuilding. Isolated communities reconnected, and trade
routes were reestablished. The Rock played a pivotal role in guiding the
reconstruction efforts, offering both magical and practical knowledge to
the next generation of leaders. These leaders, hardened by the trials of
war, were determined to create a society resilient enough to withstand the
challenges of the new world.
The Formation of the Maritime Compact
- Recognizing
the need for unity in the face of ongoing threats, the survivors began
discussing a formalized political structure. Drawing on the ideals of
cooperation and mutual defense, the Maritime Compact was born. The
Articles of Unity, reinterpreted for a world transformed by magic, became
the cornerstone of this new nation. Each region—New Brunswick, Nova
Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the surviving parts of Quebec—became a
distinct political entity within the Federation, bound by a shared
commitment to collective strength and innovation.
The Federation Grows and Stabilizes
- Over
time, the Maritime Compact solidified its power. Trade flourished, and new
technologies and magical practices emerged, helping the population
recover. The Federation's military forces, now unified under central
command, fortified the region's borders and established a network of defenses.
The scars of the Necromantic Wars ensured that the Federation remained
vigilant, ever-prepared to face external threats.
The Modern Maritime Compact
A New Era of Stability
- As
the Federation grew stronger, a period of relative stability emerged.
Though the world outside remained perilous, the Federation's strong
defenses and cooperative government allowed its people to live in peace,
their economy thriving on a mix of traditional industries and the advanced
Faustian Mechanical technologies that had become the backbone of their
society.
Challenges and Opportunities
- With
stability came new challenges. The Federation began to explore the world
beyond its borders, sending diplomats and explorers to form alliances and
learn from other survivors. However, internal tensions occasionally flared
as regions competed for resources and influence. The specter of
necromancy, though largely vanquished, continued to linger in the dark
corners of the world, a reminder of the ever-present dangers that
threatened the fragile peace.
Key Historical Themes
- Unity
Through Adversity: The Maritime Compact’s history is one of overcoming
incredible odds through cooperation and innovation. The region’s people,
though diverse, united in the face of existential threats and built a
society that values both individual autonomy and collective strength.
- Technological
and Magical Integration: The development and use of Faustian Mechanics
is a defining feature of the Federation. This blending of magic and
technology not only allowed the region to survive the Hodgepocalypse but
also became the foundation of its modern society.
- A
Vigilant Society: The Federation’s history has instilled a strong
sense of vigilance in its people. The memories of the Hodgepocalypse and
the Necromantic Wars ensure that the Federation remains ever prepared for
the next challenge, whether it comes from within or beyond its borders.
Government and Structure
The Maritime Compact's government structure is built around
a central Federation Assembly composed of representatives from each member
region, such as New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. This Assembly addresses
overarching issues like defense, trade, and technological development through a
consensus-driven approach, while ensuring regional autonomy. Each region
maintains its own council and leadership to govern local affairs, allowing for
significant self-governance. The Federation's executive leadership, led by a
High Minister elected by the Assembly, coordinates defense efforts and
diplomatic relations, supported by a Council of Ministers overseeing specific
domains.
Key principles of the Federation include unity in diversity,
survival through innovation, and cultural preservation. The Federation
emphasizes mutual respect among its regions, prioritizing survival strategies
like fortification and resource management, particularly using Faustian
Mechanics. The Federation actively promotes the preservation of unique regional
cultures, languages, and traditions, ensuring that each member contributes to
the collective strength while retaining its cultural identity.
The Federation's defense and military structure is
centralized under the Maritime Defense Command, integrating regional militias
and the specialized Faustian Mechanics Corps. Each region contributes to
defense through local militias and mandatory citizen service. Technological
innovation is a cornerstone of the Federation's survival strategy, with
regional research centers advancing Faustian Mechanics under the oversight of
the Federation Science Directorate. The Federation also pursues strategic
alliances cautiously, balancing external support with sovereignty, and may
engage in controlled exploration to secure resources or new allies. Throughout,
the Federation grapples with internal tensions, external threats, and ethical
dilemmas, particularly in the use of advanced technologies.
Species of the Maritime Compact
The Maritime Compact has become a melting pot. While predominantly human, several key
species play an important part of promoting the full and equitable
participation of individuals and communities of all origins in the continuing
evolution and shaping of all aspects of the compact.
Humans in the Maritime Compact
Humans in the Maritime Compact have become resilient,
resourceful, and deeply interconnected with their environment and the other
species that inhabit the region. The aftermath of the Hodgepocalypse and the
ensuing Necromantic Wars forced human communities to adapt quickly, developing
unique cultural practices and survival strategies that are now deeply ingrained
in their society.
New Brunswick: The Borderland Guardians
Culture:
- Resilient
Defenders: Humans in New Brunswick see themselves as the first line of
defense against external threats, particularly the industrialized undead
and vampires from Quebec. This has fostered a culture of vigilance,
martial prowess, and a deep sense of duty to protect the rest of the
Federation.
- Community-Oriented:
With a strong emphasis on community, New Brunswickers often live in
tight-knit, fortified towns and villages where everyone has a role to play
in the defense and upkeep of their home. They are pragmatic, with a
no-nonsense attitude that reflects their constant preparedness for
conflict.
- Technological
Integration: The heavy reliance on Faustian Mechanics has led to a
culture where humans are adept at blending magic with machinery. Many are
trained in the basics of techno-wizardry, and it’s not uncommon to see
enchanted tools and weapons as part of everyday life.
Distinctiveness:
- Frontier
Spirit: New Brunswick’s humans are known for their frontier spirit,
always ready to explore new ways of fortifying their land or repelling
undead threats. They’re seen as stoic, with a strong work ethic, and often
have a rough-and-tumble demeanor.
Nova Scotia: The Heart of the Compact
Culture:
- Maritime
Mastery: With a long coastline, humans in Nova Scotia have maintained
their maritime traditions, becoming skilled sailors, shipbuilders, and
traders. The sea is central to their identity, and they’ve adapted to the
post-Hodgepocalypse world by using techno-wizardry to enhance their ships
and navigation.
- Cultural
Preservation: Nova Scotians place a high value on preserving their
cultural heritage. Music, dance, and storytelling are important, with
influences from their Celtic, Acadian, and Mi’kmaq roots still evident.
The blending of these traditions with new magical practices has created a
unique cultural tapestry.
- Scholarly
and Arcane Focus: Nova Scotia is home to many scholars and
practitioners of magic, particularly in the field of Faustian Mechanics.
The presence of The Rock, a wizard community reminiscent of Atlantis or
Hogwarts, has influenced the region, making it a center for arcane study
and innovation.
Distinctiveness:
- Cultural
Melting Pot: Humans in Nova Scotia are seen as both traditionalists
and innovators. They are known for their hospitality, love of the arts,
and a deep respect for the natural world, making them one of the most
culturally rich and diverse groups in the Federation.
Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.): The Enchanted Isle
Culture:
- Agricultural
Hub: P.E.I. is the agricultural heart of the Federation, with humans
here focused on farming, fishing, and managing the land. The island’s rich
soil and magical ley lines have allowed them to integrate techno-wizardry
into their agricultural practices, resulting in abundant and enchanted
crops.
- Isolation
and Community: The island’s isolation has fostered a close-knit,
self-sufficient community. P.E.I.’s humans are known for their ingenuity
in using limited resources, and they’ve developed a strong barter economy
where goods and services are traded within the community and with
neighboring regions.
- Faerie
Connections: P.E.I. has a strong connection to the fey, particularly
the Feylin. Humans on the island often work alongside these faerie folk,
and it’s common to see Feylin magic intertwined with human life. This
connection has imbued the culture with a whimsical, almost otherworldly
charm.
Distinctiveness:
- Whimsical
Pragmatism: Humans in P.E.I. are seen as pragmatic yet whimsical, with
a deep connection to the land and the fey. They are known for their
kindness, resourcefulness, and an ability to find joy and magic in
everyday life.
Anticosti Dominion The Enigmatic Northerners
Culture:
- Survivalists
and Innovators: The humans in this part of the former part of Quebec
have adapted to the harsher climate and the constant threat of undead
incursions. They are survivalists at heart, with a strong emphasis on
self-reliance and innovation. The cold and rugged landscape has shaped
them into hardy, pragmatic people who are always prepared for the worst.
- Blend
of Old and New: These communities blend traditional Quebecois culture
with new practices born out of necessity. This includes a mix of
Catholicism and newer, syncretic magical practices that incorporate
elements of necromancy for defense.
- Cultural
Resilience: Despite the dangers, humans here have maintained a strong
cultural identity, with French being the dominant language and a continued
emphasis on food, family, and festivals. However, their festivals often
have a darker edge, reflecting their history of struggle against the
undead.
Distinctiveness:
- Stoic
and Enigmatic: Humans in Quebec are seen as stoic, enigmatic, and
slightly aloof by others in the Federation. They are respected for their
toughness and ingenuity, but their close proximity to the undead threat
has also made them somewhat insular and suspicious of outsiders.
Dwarves
In the Maritime Compact, Dwarves are the backbone of
industry and craftsmanship, deeply embedded in the fabric of society. Having
long adapted to the rugged terrain of the region, they are master builders,
miners, and engineers, responsible for the construction of the Compact’s
extensive network of fortified bunkers, underground cities, and arcane forges.
The Dwarves’ expertise in metallurgy and stonework has been crucial in the
development of the region’s defensive structures, ensuring that the Compact remains
a stronghold against external threats like the undead hordes from Quebec. Their
communities, often found in the mountainous regions and along the rocky
coastlines, are known for their resilience, ingenuity, and fierce independence,
yet they are deeply loyal to the Compact's ideals of unity and survival. They are particularly common in New Brunswick
with moderate populations in Nova Scotia and the Anticosti Dominion.
Culturally, the Dwarves of the Maritime Compact have
developed a unique blend of their traditional heritage with the maritime
traditions of the region. They are known for their shipbuilding skills,
creating vessels that can withstand both the physical and magical storms that
batter the coastline. Dwarven craft beer and spirits are highly prized, with
many settlements hosting grand festivals celebrating their brewing
achievements. They have also embraced the Compact’s focus on integration,
working closely with other races, particularly Gnomes and Humans, to enhance
the region’s technological and magical defenses. While they maintain their
ancestral pride and customs, the Dwarves have become integral to the collective
identity of the Maritime Compact, symbolizing the strength and endurance of the
federation as a whole.
Feylin
In the Maritime Compact, the Feylin have found a unique
niche as both beloved oddities and unexpected heroes. Their obsession with pop
culture has led them to embrace the vast and eclectic media influences that
still linger in the post-apocalyptic world. While other races focus on survival
and rebuilding, the Feylin immerse themselves in the remnants of old-world
entertainment, drawing on it for inspiration, identity, and, most importantly,
adventure. Surprisingly, they seem to
have the largest population in Prince Edward Island.
Examples of pop culture references that have become Feylin
favorites include:
- "Captain
Fishhook": A seafaring hero from an old animated series, Captain
Fishhook is a charismatic pirate who fights against sea monsters and rival
pirate crews. Feylin often mimic his swashbuckling style, donning
makeshift pirate garb, eye patches, and wielding toy cutlasses as they
embark on daring quests across the Compact's waters.
- "The
Techno-Gear Troupe": Based on a group of gadget-wielding heroes
from a pre-Revelations comic book series, the Techno-Gear Troupe is a team
of misfits who use advanced technology to protect the innocent. Feylin
cosplayers often craft their own "techno-gear" from scavenged
materials, combining it with their natural agility to become pint-sized
protectors of the Compact.
- "The
Neon Samurai": An enigmatic warrior from a once-popular radio
drama, the Neon Samurai was known for his glowing armor and mastery of
ancient combat techniques. Feylin enthusiasts recreate his look with
brightly colored armor pieces and glowing weapons, often incorporating
neon paints and light sources to capture the samurai's iconic glow in the
dark aesthetic.
Gnomes
Gnomes have found a unique and vital role within the
Maritime Compact, blending their inventive spirit and technological expertise
with the alliance's goals of mutual benefit and advancement. As natural
engineers and inventors, gnomes have become key players in the Compact’s
infrastructure projects, from designing and maintaining complex machinery to
developing innovative technologies for both defense and daily life. Their
adeptness at mechanical and magical solutions has made them invaluable to the
Compact, especially in the realms of shipbuilding and the management of
arcane-powered devices. Gnomes have leveraged their traditional skills, honed
over generations, to enhance the Compact's capabilities and contribute to its
ongoing success. They are the primary
fee species in Prince Edward Island and are absolutely a fan of potatos.
Integration into the Compact has not been without its
challenges, however. The gnomes' reputation for eccentricity and their
sometimes-insular nature have required adjustments from both their allies and
themselves. Despite these initial hurdles, the gnomes have forged strong
relationships within the Compact through their relentless dedication to
problem-solving and their ability to bridge the gap between old-world
craftsmanship and new-world innovation. Their contributions extend beyond
technology, as gnomes often serve as mediators and advisors, using their broad
knowledge to navigate the complex social and political landscape of the
Compact. Through their ingenuity and adaptability, gnomes have firmly
established themselves as a respected and essential part of the Maritime
Compact's diverse tapestry.
Halfling
Halflings are known for their nomadic lifestyle and cheerful
demeanor. They arrived on Earth during the Revelations, fleeing from a nameless
evil that devastated their original homeland. Now, they travel in familial
convoys, bringing a sense of community and joy wherever they go. Their cultural
quirks, such as naming themselves after fast-food chains or traditional food
items, add a unique touch to their interactions. Despite their small stature,
Halflings are adept behind the wheel of vehicles, often making a living as
professional delivery drivers. Their affinity for exploration and adventure is
matched by their resilience and infectious positivity. This skill has been translated into great
sailors. The lion’s share of them are in
Prince Edward Island, but there are sizable communities in all provinces. They seem
to be a fan of potatoes.
Haraak
The Haraak, a formidable people from the Hallowed World,
have become an integral part of the Maritime Compact through their unyielding
spirit and adaptability. The Haraak's culture, centered around feats of
strength and communal resilience, aligns with the Compact's emphasis on unity
and survival in the face of external threats. Their semi-agrarian societies,
often centered around the raising of primal creatures, have found a place in
the Compact's rural regions, where their expertise in managing tough
environments contributes to the overall stability of the federation.
Within the Maritime Compact, the Haraak have formed strong
bonds with other races, particularly the Dwarves, whom they respect for their
craftsmanship and straightforward nature. While traditional Haraak may view
technology with some suspicion, preferring to rely on their physical prowess,
younger and exiled Haraak have embraced it as a new frontier to conquer. This
blend of ancient traditions with a willingness to adapt has made the Haraak
valuable allies in the Compact's ongoing struggles. Their loud, boisterous
nature and tendency to wear their emotions openly make them both endearing and
intimidating to those they meet, but once befriended, the Haraak are fiercely
loyal, bringing their unique blend of strength and ingenuity to the Compact's
defense and prosperity.
The are mostly in the frontier of the Anticosti Dominion and
often migrate deep into Quebec as they don’t always respect the border causing
tensions with the vampiric forces of the République de la Nuit
Marlarkoids
The Malarkoids, an alien species stranded on Earth during
the Hodgepocalypse, have become essential to the Maritime Compact due to their
expertise in Faustian Mechanics, a fusion of technology and magic. After their
crash-landing, they found refuge in the Maritimes, where their skills were
highly valued in rebuilding and defending the region. Recognizing the potential
of their knowledge, the leaders of the Maritime Compact integrated the
Malarkoids into society, allowing them to establish academies and workshops to
train a new generation in this arcane science.
They are incredibly common in Nova Scotia to the point where they are
considered “just folk.”
Through their contributions, the Malarkoids have profoundly
influenced the infrastructure and defense systems of the federation, from
arcane-powered submarines to floating fortresses. Their blend of alien
technology and human innovation has strengthened the Maritimes, making it a
resilient and thriving region in a world still reeling from apocalyptic
devastation. Despite their unusual origins, the Malarkoids have become
respected members of Maritime society, playing a crucial role in its survival
and growth.
Verkhail
The Verkhail, once enslaved and broken under the cruel rule
of the Desecrators, found an unexpected path to freedom through the Maritime
Compact. The current population was a
rescue mission done by one of the maritime ships during a trading mission. The Verkhail, now free from the horrors of
the Fiend Marches, have embraced this new beginning, though their journey to
self-sufficiency is far from complete. Their natural affinity for magic,
coupled with their formidable physicality, has made them invaluable allies
within the Compact, particularly in areas requiring both strength and mystical
knowledge. They settled primarily in New
Brunswick and the Anticosti Dominion
However, the integration of the Verkhail into
the Maritime Compact has not been without challenges. Their past as a
subjugated people has left deep scars, leading to tensions both within their
community and with their new allies. While many Verkhail have adapted well,
finding purpose in their newfound freedom, others struggle with the concept of
autonomy, still haunted by the hierarchical structure imposed by the
Desecrators. This internal conflict, combined with the Verkhail's ongoing
efforts to rescue their kin from the Fiend Marches, has created friction within
the Compact. The sheer distance makes this very difficult at the best of times.
Despite these difficulties, the Verkhail's contributions to the Compact,
especially in defense and magical expertise, continue to be highly valued, and
their story within the alliance is one of resilience and hope amidst the
lingering shadows of their past.
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