Road Trip across the United States of Vagari
THE DIVINE COMPASS
Vires Acquirit Eundo
We gather strength as we go
A map detailing the highway system of USV
The country was initially divided into four main zones in relation to the compass of gods. As time passed, and the connection to the gods became much less direct, the country split into the current 23 states.
The current time period is akin to the 80s/90s United States. While there are areas where religion and the ties to more powerful ancient magic are more prominent, the majority of the population is more casual in magic use and worship. Technology utilizing low-level magic is everywhere.
The Trip
Each decade, Maryork Magic University (MMU) sends a selection of graduates on a "rite of passage" road trip across the United States of Vagari.
The coming-of-age journey is the only ancient tradition that has survived the test of time. Initially, this journey was supported by the most powerful warriors, the most skilled magic users, and the smartest intellectuals. Only those young individuals who proved themselves worthy to these sages were chosen to embark on this adventure.
Originally, the purpose of the journey was to explore and map new territories across the continent. Since the older sages were unable to undertake such demanding travels, they relied on the strongest and most capable youth to carry out these explorations.
Today, this journey is only undertaken every 10 years by graduates from the last remaining adventuring college in the country. This tradition has evolved, now forming a critical part of the curriculum, where only the most skilled graduates have the opportunity to prove their capabilities by navigating these expeditions. The students are picked seemingly at random. Because of that, the students chosen are often a "colorful" group of individuals.
The aim of the journey is also more or less sworn to secrecy. All that has been offered to the public, and prospective adventurers, is that it is a “road-trip” around the country. A location within each state must be visited, and the journey can take no longer than six months.
Past adventurers are also extremely secretive about the contents of the journey, despite how fondly they reminisce about it in interviews.
The journey is held on 10-year intervals to allow time for the adventuring college to gather necessary resources and plan meticulously. Additionally, the 10-year gap allows the incorporation of new knowledge and technologies, ensuring each journey benefits from the latest advances.