Bissel, March of

The Lirtlemark, or March of Bissel, was the northernmost frontier of the kingdom of Keoland, c. 400 CY. It was wrested from the latter in the Small War (Furyondy vs. Keoland) which ended Keoish influence in Veluna (438 CY). Bissel became a tributary state of Furyondy for a few decades, but when humanoid invasions swept over the latter realm, the Margrave Rollo established the independence of the territory by bravery in service of the King of Furyondy (the Bisselites slaughtered a horde of Jebli (goblins) which lay in ambush for King Hugh III, who was guarded by but a small train.) The King granted the brave Rollo palatinate status for the deeds performed, and Bissel has enjoyed self-rule since.

The March now stands as a bulwark between the Ket masses and the rest of the east. It likewise guards Keoland and the south. Because of its strategic position, both Furyondy-Veluna and Keoland now support the principality, and adventurers and mercenaries from all of the Flanaess can be found in the ranks of the “Border Companies” which comprise the standing army of the Margrave. There are four regular companies and four reserve companies; each is 1,000 strong and contains contingents of horse, foot and archers. Favored weapons are the lance, crossbow, pike, fauchard-fork, flail, and sword. Bisselite soldiers are very well equipped and well-armored. Each company has a special squad of scouts (numbering 30 to 50) attached when on border duty.

Type

Geopolitical, County / March

Ruler: His Lofty Grace, Walgar, the Margrave of Bissel
Capital: Thornward  (pop. 3,430)
Population: 35,000+
Demi-humans: Some
Humanoids: Some
Resources: foodstuffs, cloth, gold, gems (I)