Across the Borders

The Bandit Lands border on many eastern states and Iuz’s attitude to each is important. Broadly, Iuz does not seek to escalate conflict with his neighbors at this time. His control of the Bandit Lands is not secure enough and his armies are not numerous enough to strike eastward yet.

Tenh: Tenh is occupied by Stonefist men allied with Iuz and is described in a later chapter.

County of Urnst: The County is a rich and powerful state. It has a number of very strong fortifications along the Artonsamay, notably the Charn Castles. Its troops are not excessively numerous, but they are well-trained, have very good morale, and are exceptionally well equipped and supplied. For these reasons, raids by bandits serving Iuz Into the County are few and far between. Cranzer and Renfus in Stoink are well aware that any significant skirmish would invite a crushing counter-blow from the County, so they bide their time. The County refuses to trade with the Bandit Lands, with a handful of local exceptions, which angers Cranzer since he badly needs the food which is so abundant in Urnst.

Theocracy of the Pale: There is a tiny border area at the meeting of the Artonsamay and Yol rivers. The attitude of Iuz and the Theocracy to each other can be summed up in one word: contempt. Both sides despise and virtually ignore the existence of the other.

Nyrond: For some eighty miles of the Artonsamay's length south of the Nutherwood, Iuz and Nyrond face each other, with Starkwall anchoring Nyrond's defenses. Iuz is aware of Nyrond's weakness, no concerted attacks are made here because of the distance from Iuz's homeland and center of control. However, skirmishes are not uncommon and are growing in frequency given Renfus' liking for raids. They are random, hit-and-miss affairs involving humanoid and bandit troops which often lack experienced, powerful leaders.