Ulek, Duchy of
The Duchy of Ulek is a predominantly elven realm that gained its independence in 453 CY, maintaining strong alliances with the Ulek States and Celene while preserving neutrality between Keoland and its former vassal. Ruled by a high elven duke, the duchy thrives through trade, diplomacy, and a well-trained military force composed of elves, humans, and gnomes who stand ready to defend their lands.
History
The Duchy of Ulek gained its independence from Keoland in 453 CY, swiftly forging treaties of aid and friendship with the other Ulek States and Celene. Originally a vassal of Celene, the Duchy briefly aligned itself with Keoland before withdrawing when its wars of conquest began. Since then, it has maintained its independent status, carefully navigating its relationships with both Celene and Keoland while ensuring stability within its own borders.
Politics and Society
The Duchy maintains amicable but reserved relations with Keoland and the Gran March, favoring trade through the Lortmils with the Kron Hills gnomes and Celene. The Duchy is an elven realm, ruled by a wise and intelligent Duke of high elven lineage. Many humans in the region have elven ancestry, and all inhabitants treat demi-humans as equals. The Duchy remains strongly allied with the other Ulek States, ensuring peace along the southern Lortmil Mountains.
Religion
Religious tolerance is a defining trait of the Duchy. Humans primarily worship Oeridian and Suel deities, while demi-humans follow their own traditional gods. A place of particular reverence is a sacred glade deep within the Silver Wood, known to followers of Ehlonna of the Forests as a site of holiness and powerful natural magic. Pilgrims often travel there, seeking tranquility and spiritual renewal.
Military
The Duke commands a standing army of approximately 1,000 soldiers, composed largely of crossbowmen, bill-armed infantry, and elven archers. The cavalry consists of three squadrons—one heavy, one medium, and one light—manned entirely by elves. In times of need, the Duchy can swiftly raise additional levies of men, elves, and gnomes. Though its forces are not vast, they are skilled, well-equipped, and accustomed to defending their homeland.
Trade and Relations
While the Duchy does not harbor any love for the Keoish, it holds no deep-seated enmity toward them either. Trade and diplomatic relations continue between the Duchy, Keoland, and the Gran March, though most commerce flows through Celene and the Kron Hills gnomes. The Duchy's economy benefits from woodcraft, fine elven goods, and skilled artisans, ensuring a steady and prosperous way of life for its people.
Proper Name: Duchy of Ulek
Ruler: Duke Grenowin (elf)
Government: Independent feudal monarchy with hereditary rulership, royal and major noble houses are exclusively elven; formerly a member of Keoland
Major Settlements: Axegard; Tringlee, Waybury
Resources: Foodstuffs, cloth, electrum, gold, silver, gems (I-II)
Population: Human, Half-elf, Elf, Gnome, Halfling
Law: CG
Allies: Ulek states, Keoland, Gran March, Sterich, Geoff, Verbobonc, Kron Hills, Highfolk, Veluna, Furyondy, Dyvers, Greyhawk, Duchy of Urnst, Knights of Luna, Celene (strained), Knights of the Watch
Enemies: The Pomarj (distant)
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