The Marches

The marches are a series of grand duchies and pseudo-kingdoms. They consist of Vallarian adventurer states and polities that were carved out of older kingdoms and native tribal structures. They live for constant war, and were responsible for a period of anarchy that almost destroyed the major powers of the inner sea, before being subjugated by the King of the Eastern Realm and its allies.



Stonemonte:

Stonemonte was the leader of the anarchy, and is currently the most powerful Marcher duchy. They are ruled by a cunning and ruthless Arch-Duke, and are suspected for almost any scheme or misfortune suffered by another marcher or Kingdom. Many suspect they are the leading voice behind the call for crusade against Westmarch.



Westmarch:

One of the few marcher duchies that is not Vallarian, the Grand Duchie was once the Kingdom of Mithrine. They submitted to the authority of the Eastern Realm and foreswore any claim to an independent crown, and are considered the most loyal allies of the E.R. They are in the midst of a rebellion, where the south has been seized by religious zealots and burghers, cutting off the northern duchie. The rebellion is suspected to have foreign backing, with Stonemonte as the prime suspect. Westmarch is also unique in that it suppresses the Unity Church and does not have a national cult. Some rumours claim that the ruling house are demon worshipers, and this along with their suppression of religious rebellion in the south, has led to a call for a general crusade against Westmarch. Nobody has yet taken up the call.



Eastmarch:

The eastern most duchie they are surrounded by the wild and dangeous plains of Ghosht and the dragon empire. They have a hatred for Westmarch. Their warriors specialize in a brand of mounted archery.



Windermarch, Morwealde, and Spearmarch:

Carved by Vallarian adventurers from the Kingdom of Alba, they have resisted re-conquest, but have close ties to Alba and the Kingdom of Rheagus. They are wild warriors and are likely to be found in any mercenary band employing marcher knights.

Saxxon and Seaxmarch:

These warrior duchies were also formed by Vallarian conquest. They were leaders in the Anarchy and are closely allied to Stonemonte. Saxxon especially has a hatred for Westmarch.

Sylwealde and Lakton:

These duchies have close links to the Eastern Realm, and are opponents and rivals of Stonemonte. The longbowmen of Lakton are famous for their effectiveness and are highly prized as mercenaries.



Wecmarch:

Wecmarch has secured for itself a special trade relationship with the Dwarven kingdom. It produces warriors and crusaders, but is most careful not to put at risk its special status and monopoly over trade with the Dwarves.