Free Cities

Description

Back at the height of its strength, the Celesian Empire of Middenland stretched well within the Eastern Steppes and founded many cities for trade further east or to be bastions to defend them from the Khalag steppe tribes. When the Empire fell they were suddenly cut off from their source of wealth and power, and left on their own. Many of them became independent and went through bloody civil wars fought to see who would rule, while others were quickly conquered by the Khalag or even surrendered to them. Nowadays they are nothing but a group of unaffiliated, independent city-states of only minor influence as trading hubs.

Culture

Due to their history, the cultural traditions here are a unique intermediate between those of the Middenlanders and the Khalag. The population is also a healthy mixture of human, orc and half-orc, with the occasional halfling, gnome and elvvhin or half-elf as well. Generally both groups value freedom and in these cities they can easily find it, as no one would be silly enough to still try to exert some kind of cultural control here, consider the history.

Politics

These places value their independence, and mostly they have been able to keep it as they are not of great importance. And besides, there haven't been any factions in recent history powerful and especially stable enough to go on a conquering spree. However, the Ryvallen Confederacy seems to be gearing up for war and has been making some tentative moves. This has caused the cities to feel some need to ally with others. Some of them have also ended up falling within the territory of the New Khalag Empire. They have not been forced to affiliate themselves with the Khalag Empire yet, but it is still an enticing option to safeguard themselves from Ryvallen and keep trade to the east going. Others closer to Middenland have tried to set up some alliances with the eastern duchies of Middenland such as the Duchy of Solland, or even make a throw for becoming a vassal state which would grant them insurance of military aid.

Alternative Names

The Lost Duchy

Training Level

Levy

Veterancy Level

Recruit

Location

Eastern Steppes