**Human Dominion:**
- **Kingdom Name:** Astoria
- **Royal Family:**
- **King:** King Haruki IV
- **Noble Houses:**
1. **House Kurogane (Metal Aura):**
- Known for their mastery in metallurgy and weapon crafting.
- Head: Lord Takeshi Kurogane
2. **House Mizuki (Water Aura):**
- Renowned for skilled navigators and maritime trade.
- Head: Lady Aya Mizuki
3. **House Fujinami (Wind Aura):**
- Experts in aerial reconnaissance and magical communication.
- Head: Lord Kazuki Fujinami
4. **House Hinata (Light Aura):**
- Custodians of ancient libraries and centers of magical knowledge.
- Head: Lady Hikari Hinata
5. **House Yamiyo (Shadow Aura):**
- Involved in espionage, subtle diplomacy, and covert operations.
- Head: Lord Akira Yamiyo
**Political Dynamics:**
- **Royal Court Intrigues:**
- Noble houses vie for influence and favor within the court, often using their Auras to demonstrate prestige and power.
- Intricate alliances and rivalries shape the political landscape.
- **Aura-based Discrimination:**
- Societal hierarchy is influenced by Aura types, with certain Auras considered more prestigious. Shadow Auras face discrimination and suspicion due to their association with secrecy.
**Inter-Region Relationships:**
- **Elven Enclaves:**
- Trade agreements for enchanted flora and rare elven artifacts.
- Elven diplomats often navigate the complex human political landscape.
- **Dwarven Strongholds:**
- Economic partnerships for metal resources and enchanted craftsmanship.
- Dwarven mercenaries occasionally hired for security.
- **Demi-Human and Beast Human Communities:**
- Cooperation in certain regions, especially where human settlements border their territories.
- Cultural exchange programs to foster understanding.
**Economic Trade:**
- **Alchemy Halls and Enchanted Markets:**
- Alchemical goods and enchanted items exchanged for raw materials and magical components.
- Magical artifacts crafted by dwarves are highly sought after.
- **Magical Beast Taming Trade:**
- Beast humans engage in trade of magical creatures and trained beasts.
- Unique resources like rare herbs and enchanted gems are traded.
**Current Political Tensions:**
- **Aura Equality Movement:**
- Rising discontent among those with Shadow Auras, leading to a movement advocating for equality and the dismantling of discriminatory practices.
- Human rights activists within the kingdom push for a more inclusive political system.
- **Threat from the East:**
- Reports of increased magical disturbances and potential external threats from a region influenced by the East, known for its historical conflicts.
As Ryutaro becomes entangled in the political landscape, he will navigate the complexities of discrimination, work to bridge cultural gaps, and strive to bring about a more unified and just society.