Gran March
The Gran March occupies the fertile plains east of the expansive Dim Forest and west of the Lortmil Mountains, bounded by the northernmost fork of the Sheldomar River in the south. A poorly defined “open” border marks the north, where nobles often kept court in both Bissel and Gran March. These days, there seems to be little difference between the two governments, though the land within 30 miles north of Hookhill is considered part of Gran March proper. This territory also includes portions of Dim Forest and the Rushmoors, a haunted fen that has plagued the southern march for much of its long history.
History
Keoland established the territory of the Gran March during its early stages, basing it upon a military-religious order of knights. These zealous fighters quickly subdued the warring inhabitants, established order within the area, and conscripted all fit males into worker and infantry battles (regimental-like formations). The land between the Lortmils and Dim Forest north of the Sheldomar became productive and peaceful, but the rule of these first Commandants was repressive and harsh. When Berlikyn, then-ruler of the fief, was slain in combat in the war with Veluna-Furyondy in the Small War, the populace rose in rejoicing. Keoland reconsidered its policies thereafter, and allowed the people to elect their own Commandant from amongst the noble houses of Gran March. The state is now only a nominal vassal of Keoland and maintains friendly relations with Bissel. The army of the Commandant relies primarily upon its mailed cavalry-medium horse armed with lances, crossbows, and swords.
Military
Gran March is an exceptionally martial nation. At age fifteen, all fit males enter mandatory conscription for a period of up to seven years. Girls may join the rank and file, as well, though this is something of a modern development, and their participation is not seen as mandatory (though several influential women in the military hierarchy believe it should be). It is a testament to the national pride of the nation’s young people that many continue after their required service, and those who do not are generally members of local militias.
Internationally renowned mailed cavalry forms the core of Gran March’s impressive army. Armed with lances, crossbows, and swords, these riders are the bane of giants inhabiting Geoff. The Knights of the Watch and Knights of Dispatch offer support and welcome tactical expertise. The total standing army includes more than eighteen thousand soldiers. At least three times as many trained troops can be called up within a single week.
Foreign Relations
The Gran March is almost wholly independent of Keoland now, and has been a surprising neutral state in these days of war. Its own troops have suffered little in the way of casualties. It has also in recent years received the cream of exiles from Bissel, Geoff (who have fled there because it was nearest), and Sterich (who fled there rather than to distrusted Keoland). This well-resourced land is now powerful despite its small size, and the words of its ambassador are carefully listened to in Keoland, Veluna, and Furyondy. If the Gran March has a lingering anger, it is concern over the fate of Bissel, with which it historically had warm relations.
The Gran March lies between Ulek and Bissel (to the north, not pictured).
Founding Date
Early 300s CY
Type
Geopolitical, County / March
Government System
Monarchy, Absolute
Power Structure
Semi-autonomous area
Economic System
Market economy
Currency
Modified Keoland: griffon (pp), lion (gp),
eagle (ep), white owl (sp), heron (cp)
Neighboring Nations