Before the first war with the East, the Western Protectorate thrived as a land of abundance, innovation, and harmony. Though not as militarily powerful as their Eastern neighbors, the West prided itself on a rich cultural heritage, advanced craftsmanship, and strong community ties. The protectorate was a beacon of resilience, with its people living in peaceful coexistence and contributing to a society that valued unity and creativity.

A Prosperous Economy

The Western Protectorate was known for its fertile lands and skilled farmers who cultivated vast cotton fields that stretched across the horizon. Cotton was the lifeblood of the economy, exported not only to the East but also to other neighboring regions. Small family-owned mills processed the cotton, creating vibrant textiles prized for their intricate patterns and durability.

The bustling trade hubs were a sight to behold, with merchants hawking their wares in open-air markets. Artisans crafted fine goods like leatherwork, pottery, and jewelry, which were sold alongside fresh produce, spices, and rare goods brought in by traders from distant lands. Western towns were centers of vibrant trade and innovation, with craftsmen constantly finding ways to improve their techniques.

Cultural Flourishing

The Western Protectorate was a land steeped in cultural traditions. Every village had its storytellers, musicians, and dancers who passed down tales of old heroes and celebrated the victories of their ancestors. Festivals marked the changing seasons, the harvest, and historical milestones, filling the air with laughter, music, and the scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries.

Art was deeply revered in the West, with large murals adorning public spaces, depicting the protectorate's history and values. Temples, schools, and homes were painted in bright colors, each telling a story of hope, perseverance, or gratitude. Poetry was a cherished art form, and many Western leaders were remembered for their eloquence and love for the written word.

Education and Innovation

The West valued education, with schools in most towns teaching not only basic skills but also philosophy, history, and science. Scholars from the West often traveled abroad, bringing back knowledge that enriched their protectorate.

One of the West's greatest achievements was its irrigation system, which maximized the potential of their fertile lands. Engineers designed aqueducts and canals that transported water to even the most arid regions, ensuring the prosperity of every community.

Social Harmony

Western society was deeply communal. Families often lived in multigenerational homes, and neighbors treated each other like extended kin. Decisions affecting the village were made collectively, with elders offering guidance and mediating conflicts. This system created a strong sense of belonging and trust among the people.

While the West was known for its individual freedoms, these freedoms were balanced with a strong sense of responsibility to the community. Every person, whether farmer, artisan, or merchant, contributed to the well-being of the whole.

Relations with the East

Before the first war, relations between the West and the East were stable, if not warm. Trade was the main connection between the two protectorates, with the East relying on Western cotton and the West benefiting from Eastern rubber. Despite their differences, the protectorates maintained a fragile peace through mutual economic dependency.

However, the East's growing militarism and expansionist ambitions were an undercurrent of tension. Western leaders chose to focus on their protectorate's internal prosperity, often overlooking subtle signs of Eastern aggression.

Everyday Life

-In the Fields: At dawn, farmers and their families would gather in the fields, picking cotton and tending to crops. The work was hard, but it was also a source of pride. Children played nearby, helping when they could while learning the skills they would one day inherit.

- In the Towns: Market days were a weekly highlight. Streets filled with the chatter of buyers and sellers, the clinking of coins, and the vibrant colors of goods on display. Bakers, blacksmiths, and weavers worked tirelessly in their workshops, producing goods that were both practical and beautiful.

- At Home: Evenings were a time for rest and connection. Families gathered around communal fires, sharing stories and meals. The elderly passed down their wisdom, and children listened with wide-eyed wonder.

Military and Defense

While the West was primarily a peaceful society, it maintained a modest defensive force. The soldiers were well-trained but few in number, reflecting the protectorate's focus on defense rather than conquest. The military was highly respected but rarely needed, as the West's policies aimed to avoid conflict whenever possible.

The Western Protectorate's idyllic life, however, was vulnerable to outside threats. Its wealth and stability made it a tempting target for the power-hungry leaders of the East. When the first signs of conflict emerged, the West was unprepared for the scale of the aggression they would face. Yet, even in their darkest moments, the spirit of the West—shaped by years of harmony, creativity, and resilience—remained unbroken.