Gran March
The Gran March is a rigidly disciplined and militarized society, originally founded by Keoland to pacify the frontier but now largely independent. Under the leadership of the dwarven Commandant Magnus Onyxbeard and the influential Knights of the Watch, it remains a formidable bastion against external threats, maintaining strong alliances with its elven, dwarven, and human neighbors.
History
The Gran March was established by Keoland as a frontier territory to pacify the fractious peoples dwelling between the Lortmils and the Dim Forest, north of the Sheldomar River. A military-religious knightly order was formed to impose order, quickly organizing the entire male populace into worker and military battles (regimental-style units). While these measures secured stability, the rule was harsh, and discipline was severe.
During the Small War between Keoland and Veluna in 438 CY, then-Commandant Berlikyn was slain in battle. The people rejoiced at his death, prompting Keoland to reconsider its governance of the March. From that time onward, the Commandant became an elected position among the nobility of the March, leading to a relaxation of strict rule—though the rigid, regimented nature of society persists to this day.
Originally formed to suppress cultists of Vecna, the focus of Gran March later shifted toward the growing threats from Ket and the western frontier. The land has since served as a strategic base for military expansion into Ket and Veluna. During the Short War, when Bissel was lost, the ruling Commandant perished in battle. Since then, the position has remained elective, but the Knights of the Watch wield considerable influence over politics and military matters.
Politics and Society
The Gran March remains a highly regimented society. All able-bodied males are conscripted into either worker or military battles. The Knights of the Watch, a chivalric order devoted to vigilance against external threats, works closely with the elected Commandant and wields great political power.
Though technically a nominal vassal of Keoland, the March governs itself with little interference. Its relations with Bissel remain warm, and it maintains strong trade ties with the elves of the Dim Forest and Ulek, as well as with the dwarves and gnomes of the Lortmils.
The current Commandant, Magnus Onyxbeard, is a respected dwarven war-leader, known for his strategic acumen and strong ties with the mountain folk. Under his rule, the March has reinforced its fortifications and deepened its alliance with the Knights of the Watch.
Religion
The Gran March is a bastion of militaristic faiths, with deities such as Heironeous, St. Cuthbert, and Pholtus enjoying widespread worship. Devotions to Fharlanghn, Zilchus, and the Oeridian gods of the winds and seasons are also common. In rural regions, Obad-Hai and Phyton are venerated by farmers and woodsmen.
Military
The Gran March fields a formidable military force. The army primarily consists of medium cavalry, armed with lances, crossbows, and swords. The populace is organized into battles—levied infantry and auxiliary troops who serve as frontline skirmishers. Military service is compulsory for all males at the age of 15, though females may enlist voluntarily.
The Knights of the Watch play a dominant role in the army, training elite warriors to defend against incursions from Ket and other potential threats.
Notable Locales
- Froghome (formerly Shiboleth) – The capital and military stronghold of the Gran March, known for its strategic position and formidable defenses. The city is the administrative heart of the realm, ruled by Commandant Magnus Onyxbeard and his council of military and noble advisors.
- Dim Forest – A vast woodland to the east, inhabited by elven allies and mysterious woodland creatures. Trade and diplomacy between the March and the elves of this region remain strong.
- The Lortmils – The mountain range bordering the March to the west, home to dwarves and gnomes who supply arms and armor to the Marchite military.
- Knights of the Watch Fortress – A heavily fortified stronghold, serving as the headquarters for this elite order. It stands as a bulwark against threats from the west, particularly from Ket.
With its disciplined society, strong military traditions, and strategic alliances, the Gran March remains a powerful force in the Sheldomar Valley, ever vigilant against threats from beyond its borders.
Proper Name: Gran March
Ruler: Commandant Magnus Onyxbeard (dwarf)
Government: Feudal monarchy, structured along military lines, with minor fealty to Keoland; noble houses and government are closely entwined with a militant quasireligious knighthood, the Knights of the Watch; commandant chosen every five years by vote of nobles and knights
Major Settlements: Hookhill; Froghome
Resources: Foodstuffs, cloth, copper, gems (III)
Population: Human, Elf, Dwarf, Gnome, Halfling, Half-elf, Half-orc
Law: LN
Allies: Bissel, Geoff, Keoland, Sterich, Ulek States
Enemies: Ket
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