Urnst, Duchy of

The Duchy of Urnst is a wealthy and independent realm known for its abundant mineral resources, skilled military, and historical resistance to both Nyrond and the Great Kingdom. Duke Jalken Lorinar remains vigilant against external threats while seeking to unite the Duchy and County of Urnst through the marriage of his son, Byron Lorinar, to the Countess.

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History

The Duchy of Urnst was once under the rule of Nyrond, which sought to add the mineral-rich region to its domains after gaining independence in 356 CY. A Nyrondel expedition attempted to cross the Nesser River, but the Duchy’s river galleys repelled the invasion, and no further attempts were made. When Nyrond seized the County of Urnst, the Duke of Urnst established feudal lordship over it. This arrangement lasted until 498 CY, when the County gained real independence, though the Duchy remained a strong and prosperous domain.

Politics and Society

The Duchy of Urnst is both wealthy and successful, benefiting from extensive mines in the Abbor-Alz, thriving trade, and friendly relations with most civilized neighbors. However, it suffers from raids by desert nomads to the south and maintains strained relations with the Rhenee bargefolk. There are also territorial disputes with Greyhawk over the Cairn Hills and ongoing tensions with the lakemen of Nyr Dyv.

The Duke, Jalken Lorinar, harbors a historic distrust of Nyrond and remains ever vigilant. He has also been working to unite the Duchy and the County of Urnst by attempting to arrange a marriage between his son, Byron Lorinar, and the young Countess of Urnst, which would create a single, powerful state.

Religion

The religious landscape of the Duchy of Urnst mirrors its mixed heritage, with both Oeridian and Suel deities being widely worshiped.

Military

The Duchy of Urnst maintains a strong military force, consisting of infantry stationed at numerous border fortifications, supported by a centrally-based cavalry force ready to respond to threats. The Duke has also developed an elite army of borderers to patrol the Abbor-Alz frontier, particularly against desert nomad incursions. The naval forces of the Duchy include a fleet of war galleys that patrol the Nesser River, ensuring its borders remain secure.

Notable Locales

• Maure Castle: Located on the southwestern frontier, this famed ruin is the site of Mordenkainen’s Fantastic Adventure and is steeped in mystery.
• Leukish: The Duchy’s capital and a major hub of trade, Leukish is a bustling city with strong defenses and a prominent harbor.
• Cairn Hills: This region remains a point of contention with Greyhawk and is known for its hidden tombs and ancient secrets.

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Proper Name: Duchy of Urnst

Ruler: Duke Jalken Lorinar (human)

Government:.Independent feudal monarchy with hereditary rulership, owing fealty (in theory only) to the old Great Kingdom. Duke advised in all matters by the Honorable Chamber, a delegation of nobles

Major Settlements:Leukish; Goldplain, Nellix, Nyrstran, Pontyrel, Seltaren

Resources: Foodstuffs, silver, electrum, gold, platinum, gems (I-IV)

Population: Human, Halfling, Elf, Dwarf, Gnome, Half-elf, Orc

Law: NG

Allies: County of Urnst, Greyhawk (distrusted), Nyrond (distrusted), Furyondy

Enemies: Empire of Iuz

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