Arpiel.

Easily the strongest kingdom of the region, the city-state is known for its martial prowess. Its reach has slowly expanded throughout the surrounding lands, and even as those lands seem to wither, the kingdom itself grows more vibrant. As more and more monsters roam the countryside, more neighboring countries and regions swear fealty to the Arpielian king, and more wealth comes to the City of Battle.

It’s not just the armies of Arpiel that demonstrate the kingdom’s tendencies. The city is also known for its other forms of combat, from its fighting pits in betting parlors to the grand arena battles attended by the king weekly.

No less than twice in the last five hundred years has the ruling dynasty changed due to the outcome of honorable combat. Skilled fighters are a prize here, and riches are possible for skilled gladiators.

Not all fight for wealth, however. The arena is the standard penalty for felonies in Arpiel, with faith given to Kord to bless those worth redemption with victory. Freedom, and perhaps even innocence in the eyes of the public, can be won this way.

Indeed, the city is a place where might makes right. A few condemned prisoners, gold-hungry bravos, or fallen seeking to regain honor thrown together against a beast in the arena could work their way up to change the world…