Artedian Compendium "The Glory of the Artedian Empire - Volume I"

Artedian Compendiums
Commissioned by the Artedian Emperor and Senate themselves, this body of works, "the Artedian Compendiums" are the total knowledge of Gerindak from the most brilliant minds across the vast the Artedian Empire. With this in mind this collection is meant to spur obediance throughout the empire as supporting propaganda.

The following include the introductions within the Artedian Compendium "The Glory of the Artedian Empire - Volume I"

Acknowledgement
On behalf of the Emperor and the Senate we wish to acknowledge and thank all those who contributed in the compilation of this compendium. Especially the Imperial Armed forces for providing endless and valuable information, all the travelers and adventurers that have shared their knowledge with us, and our families.

Blessed be Artedia, holy mother of our peoples for allowing us to complete this compilation."Authors""Ethanios Romnant, Petrunius Solstoshor""Cartographers""Merinas Bremner, Enidas Pronion""Illustrator""Atermnos Kerdinas"

Foreword
When we were approached by the Senatorial Publications Committee, we were foremost honored to be called upon to compile a manuscript which introduces one to all the glory that defines the Artedian Empire. Nonetheless it was a difficult task, followed by great responsibility. The Empire's vast lands, the plethora of creatures roaming these lands, the known and unknown enemies of the Empire, the numerous religions practiced and the cultural diversity that is found throughout the Empire, all require extensive knowledge as well as research prior to a successful compilation of information.

Nonetheless above all else, the most difficult task was to accurately represent Artedia, the Emperor, the Senate and the Empire. Giving a misleading interpretation would most certainly be unethical, therefore preserving the hard-earned and well-deserved glorious reputations of the aforementioned, was of utter importance to us.

The first word that came to our minds was Empire. What defines an Empire? Is it the vast land, the cultural diversity, or the armed superiority; maybe it is the superiority of civilization and education? Or perhaps it is a combination of all the above.

Then again many Empires have existed through the ages, but none was as glorious as the Artedian Empire; and chances are none will ever be. Why is that though, one might ask. Our goal is to enlighten the reader as to why exactly the Artedian Empire is being set apart from the rest, while also giving a brief overview of its history, peoples, lands, and of course the beasts and creatures that roam the Empire and the continent of Kalenia.