The Fractured Kingdoms

Currently 22 "kingdoms" fighting over control of the plains to the north of the ancient capital. Some are small but border the ancient limits of Jaran, Zadral, & Vardan, and have managed to get access to some magic items to help them hold against stronger neighbors with more land. Those "kingdoms" to the north away from the ancient cities tend to cover a larger area, but have less magic to aid them.
Many claim the title of emperor, and consider all the others, even the Kingdom of The Three Cities, to be in rebellion. The official take of the Kingdom of The Three Cities, is that they will renounce their throne to the true heir, but proving such is nearly impossible. Some rulers of the Fractured Kingdoms can trace elaborate genealogies to one or more cadet lines of the imperial blood, but few have convincing, or legitimate claims.
These kingdoms are often advertising for mercenaries in the Kingdom of The Three Cities, with a high bounty for signing up. The caveat is that the signee has to get themselves there to collect the bonus, then live through the stipulated number of battles, campaigns, or years to collect and spend it.
There is a proverb about those adventurous or foolhardy enough to sign up: "Go a fightin' in the Fractured Kingdoms and your mother will soon be a weepin' o'er your grave."

Type

Geopolitical, Kingdom

Alternative Names

Dulmar Empire