Bissel, March of
The March of Bissel, or Littlemarch, is a strategic frontier realm that has long served as a bulwark against Ketite aggression and a crossroads of cultures. Ruled by the pragmatic Margrave Imran Rendulkar, Bissel maintains strong ties with Furyondy, Keoland, and Gran March, relying on its elite Border Companies and a tradition of military excellence to defend its lands.
History
The March of Bissel, also known as the Littlemarch, was originally the northernmost frontier of Keoland, established around 400 CY. It was lost during the Small War between Furyondy and Keoland, which ended Keoish influence in Veluna (438 CY). Bissel became a tributary state of Furyondy, but when humanoid invasions swept over the region, Margrave Rollo secured Bissel’s independence through an act of great bravery.
During a royal procession, King Hugh III of Furyondy and his small escort were riding into an ambush by a horde of jebli (goblins). Margrave Rollo and his forces intercepted and routed the goblins, saving the king’s life. In recognition of this valor, Hugh III granted Bissel palatinate status, allowing it self-rule while remaining a friendly ally of Furyondy. Since then, Bissel has stood as a crucial bulwark against Ket and a guardian of the eastern realms.
Politics and Society
Today, Bissel enjoys positive relations with Furyondy, Keoland, and Gran March. Its primary concern is defending against Ketite incursions, a threat that has plagued the region for centuries. The Margrave of Bissel, Imran Rendulkar, a former ranger of great renown, rules with a pragmatic approach, balancing diplomacy with military readiness.
The people of Bissel are a diverse mix of Oeridian-Suloise from Keoland, Oerid-Flan from Furyondy, and minor Baklunish elements from Ket. The dwarves of the Lorridges are strong allies but prefer to remain distant from human politics.
Religion
Common deities venerated in Bissel include Heironeous, Zilchus, Fharlanghn, Geshtai, Rao, and Istus.
Military
Bissel’s strategic location makes it a magnet for adventurers and mercenaries from across the Flanaess. The Border Companies, the backbone of Bissel’s defense, consist of:
- Four standing companies (1,000 troops each)
- Four reserve companies (1,000 troops each)
- Each company contains a mix of horsemen, foot soldiers, and archers
- Favored weapons include lance, crossbow, pike, fauchard-fork, flail, and sword
- Elite scout detachments (30–50 soldiers) supplement the Border Companies while on active patrol
Bisselite soldiers are well-trained, well-equipped, and well-armored, ensuring the March remains a formidable barrier against aggression from the west.
Notable Locales
- The Deepingdelve – A gold mine in the Lorridges, known as the deepest gold mine in the Flanaess.
Bissel continues to play a vital role in the balance of power within the Flanaess, standing ever vigilant against threats from Ket and beyond.
Proper Name: March of Bissel
Ruler: Margrave Imran Redulkar (human))
Government: Frontier march of Furyondy
Major Settlements: Thornward; Pellak
Resources: Foodstuffs, cloth, gold, gems (I)
Population: Human, Dwarf, Elf, Gnome, Halfling
Law: LN
Allies: Furyondy, Geoff, Gran March, Keoland, Ulek states, Veluna
Enemies: Ket
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