The Highland Kingdom (ハイランド王国, Hairando Oukoku) was a nation located on the Northern continent. It forms part of the setting for Suikoden II.
Information
The Highland Kingdom was founded in the year 236/7. In that year, Mauro Blight received the Beast Rune and the title of King from the Holy Kingdom of Harmonia for his work in quelling civil war in Harmonia. Although ostensibly a reward for faithful service, the lands were granted with an ulterior motive; to provide Harmonia with a buffer zone against rebellious states, such as the Scarlet Moon Empire.
Highland has always maintained an intimate relationship with Harmonia. Since the establishment of Highland, the two nations have always been in alliance. However, that does not mean that trust is very high between the two. Although Harmonia is willing to support Highland with reinforcements, they will also not hesitate to send spies to infiltrate the country.
Highland had been involved in repeated military conflicts, for many years, with the City-State of Jowston. The roots of this conflict extend back to the year 252 when Highland took advantage of civil war in the Dunan Monarchy, invading what was then eastern South Window (modern day Muse).
428 saw the beginning of the Highland-Jowston War, with Highland under the reign of King Robert and the military leadership of Han Cunningham, invading Jowston and quickly annexing Muse. Greenhill and Matilda would soon follow. However, 432 saw the Jowston Army's Great Offensive push back the invading force, liberating Greenhill and Matilda. King Agares' ascension to the throne in 434 allowed for a cease-fire to be agreed on between the two nations, following the settlement of a border dispute centered on Kyaro Town and an uneasy peace settled in for a while although espionage and covert attacks, such as the one which struck the Blight royal caravan in 443, continued.
Flag
The flag of the Highland Kingdom is white, with blue tones. The Beast Rune, which was bestowed by Hikusaak along with the title of King, is a recurring motif as a symbol of masculinity and nobility.
References
- Perfect Guide Series Genso Suikoden I & II Official World Guide Book (ISBN 4-471-36033-7), page 62
- Genso Suikoden Genso Shinsho VOL.5 2001 Summer Issue (ISBN 4-88317-884-6), pages 16-17