Muaryia: The Political Heart of the Saga of the Six Realms

At the heart of the Saga of the Six Realms lies Muaryia — the political centre of an empire built by conquest, alliance and the uneasy union of once-rival Great Houses.

Muaryia is one of the six realms of Mu and forms the central stage for much of the political intrigue that drives the eight-book epic fantasy series. Kingdoms may wage wars at the borders, ancient powers may stir beyond them, but many of the decisions that determine the Empire’s fate begin here.

An empire forged from rival kingdoms

Muaryia took shape after Ferdinand the Great united the Great Houses beneath his banner following the Baron Wars and the overthrow of Razen, the despotic King of the Munkatha.

From those turbulent beginnings emerged seven duchies: Inkatha, Sinkatha, Ashtal, Baálak, Dyrth, Mogarran and Zukerland.

Each brought its own history, loyalties and ambitions into the new imperial order. Those divisions never entirely disappeared. They became part of the political machinery of Mu — creating the rivalries, alliances and dynastic tensions that continue generations later.

The realm at the centre of six worlds

Muaryia is surrounded by the Empire’s five other realms.

To the north rise the highlands of Krakenlore. To the west lie the desert lands of Harkens. The verdant plains of Verderan stretch to the north-east, while the maritime realm of New Illanthea lies to the south. Ordea, once part of the fallen Holy Ordean Empire, completes the circle around Muaryia.

Geography therefore makes Muaryia more than simply another realm. Roads, armies, trade, rival cultures and political ambitions all converge upon it.

Where politics becomes destiny

That history matters throughout the Saga.

The struggle for power in Muaryia is not confined to armies and rulers. Noble Houses compete for influence. Old grievances shape new alliances. Marriage can be as consequential as warfare. Forbidden relationships can threaten political settlements. And decisions made in palaces can determine what eventually happens on distant battlefields.

It is this collision between the personal and the political that makes Muaryia one of the foundations of the Saga of the Six Realms.

For readers who enjoy epic fantasy built around political intrigue, competing kingdoms, dynastic conflict, ancient history and a large interconnected world, Muaryia is where much of that journey begins.

Explore the Six Realms and discover all eight books in the Saga.