Baalmark lies in mid-west Anarkand, a land of rocky mountains, fertile flatlands, and diverse ecosystems. Its geography is both protective and generous: the high ranges guard the heartlands, while wide plains provide room for sprawling cities and agricultural wealth. The Corridor of Water that separates Baalmark from Iccus to the south has always been central to its history, acting as both a defensive barrier and a vital trade artery.


The capital, Akkada, grew where mountain routes meet the plains, becoming the beating heart of the nation. Today, it is one of Anarkand’s largest and most prosperous cities.



Early Beliefs and the Precursors

From the earliest records, Baalmark’s people have held deep reverence for the Precursors, a civilisation believed to have shaped Anarkand before recorded history. Stone carvings found in the northern mountains depict vast beings, half-human and half-celestial, creating rivers, lifting mountains, and scattering stars. Ancient Baalmarkan texts claim these beings withdrew from the world, promising to one day return to judge their creations.


Unlike other nations, where such myths faded, Baalmark enshrined them into national identity. They believe themselves to be the chosen people of the Precursors, destined to inherit their knowledge and protection when the return occurs. The fertile flatlands and immense mineral wealth of Baalmark are often cited as proof that the Precursors blessed their land.


This belief shaped the nation’s governance: Baalmark became a one-party state where the elected leader is viewed not only as a political figure but as a guardian of the Precursor legacy. While democracy exists in name, it is framed as a sacred duty to choose wisely, for the wrong leader might displease the returning Precursors.



The Rise of Power

By the Fifth Anarkian Era, Baalmark had already positioned itself as a formidable state. While neighbours to the east and west clashed, Baalmark maintained a calculated neutrality. It traded freely with all sides, offering raw minerals, mountain-forged metal, and surplus harvests from its plains in exchange for knowledge and technology.


This neutrality was not weakness. Baalmark demonstrated its power through shows of strength, building colossal fortresses in the mountain passes and a mighty fleet to patrol the Corridor of Water. Rivals soon realised that Baalmark could not be easily conquered, and many preferred alliance over conflict.


By the Sixth Anarkian Era, Baalmark had risen to Category A status, counted among the continent’s great powers alongside Andromania and Marrakis. Unlike those nations, however, Baalmark was seen as a less expansionist, yet deeply influential nation; its presence enough to shift political balances without ever marching an army.



The Faith that Endures

The belief in the Precursors has never faded. Religious festivals mark the formation of their nation when the Red Hex above their land flickers, just for a few minutes, from red to yellow. This strange event is unique to Baalmark and is perceived to be when the veil between the Precursors’ realm and Anarkand is thinnest. In these times, people gather in vast open-air temples, singing hymns of welcome for their creators’ eventual return.


Baalmarkans believe they are the chosen people because of three traditions:


The Covenant of Stone – Ancient mountain inscriptions declare, “In the heart of Baalmark, the First Flame shall rise when we return.” Many believe this prophecy ties the nation directly to the Precursors’ will.


The Prosperity of the Land – Baalmark has rarely faced the devastating famines or collapses that plagued other nations. Its abundant fauna, flora, and arable land are considered divine favour.


The Corridor of Water – Legends claim the Precursors carved this channel by hand, marking it as a sacred boundary and a symbol of Baalmark’s destiny as a bridge between peoples.



Modern Baalmark

Today, Baalmark’s people are content with life. Their faith unites them, giving the nation a sense of purpose beyond material prosperity. While outsiders may scoff at their belief in the Precursors, none deny the stability and strength it has given the nation. Baalmark’s influence stretches across Anarkand, respected for its wealth and feared for its military might. Rivals tread carefully, allies listen intently, and the people wait patiently for the day the ancients return.