Brannach
The Duchy of Brannach lies in the western marches of Othvarand, a region of mossy hill-forts, low river valleys, and roads that sink beneath brambles. It is a land shaped more by precedent than conquest—where boundaries are drawn by forgotten deeds, and folk speak of oaths kept by blood rather than ink.
Brannach is ruled from the austere hill-town of Cenmarche by Duke Ravien Mernac, a former Justicar who governs with precise authority and little tolerance for deviation. His laws are strictly enforced, his scribes are ever watchful, and his bannermen are chosen for loyalty and discipline over lineage. The Duke's grip is firm, but the land does not yield easily.
The duchy is dotted with ancient barrows, overgrown watch-towers, and abandoned pilgrim roads, many of which lead nowhere or have been quietly swallowed by encroaching woods. Old Imorean stone ways still run through the southern reaches, but most traffic moves by the Marcheward Road, a rough trade route that circles around Point Nor and skirts the edge of the Charnelwood. Few travel it without armed escort.
Brannach is not a wealthy land, but it is a guarded one. Its people are grim, practical, and wary of strangers. Shrines to Law are often paired with older, nameless stones left standing in the fields. Stories linger about wandering dead, sunken manors, and riddled hills that echo when trod upon.
The duchy is known for producing excellent scribes, sober jurists, and tireless knights. It is also known for its many traditions built to keep foul spirits at bay.
Comments