Human-dominated castles and strongholds holding no allegiance to outside powers are fairly common across the Flanaess. Between the Orcish Empire of the Pomarj and the Domain of Greyhawk, along the Buffer Zone, are several independent strongholds, notably Castle Mastryne and Pascorel (the town known for its Cockatrice Riders, a bandit cavalry). Any of the hills and major forests could hold a dozen or more similar spots, even deep within the territory of a major state like Keoland. Chaotic lands such as the Empire of Iuz doubtless hold many tiny holdings whose lords refuse fealty to all, such as the notorious, lich-ruled “Dahlvier’s County” near the Fellreev.