Duchy of Croatia

The Duchy of Croatia lies to the south west part of the South-eastern Europe, between two major powers. To the north & northwest is Austria & the Franks, to the east & south lies the Byzantine Empire. The Duchy is linked closely to the Pannonia & Dalmatia regions in this country. The Franks have controlled the region from between 790 AD to 800 AD, though both the Croats & Byzantium are pushing for some more influence. The Croats are Slavs, and are led by Vojnomir, the Duke of Slavs in Lower Pannonia, and a military commander in Frankish service. who has ruled since 790 AD. He has the title Knez (duke or prince). Most of the southern parts, including many cities & ports, are under Byzantine rule, and constant military actions are took between the forces present. The country is on the Adriatic Sea. The country is known to have a large Slavic pagan presence despite being nominally Christian, and Avars regularly raid here, with other Slavs, and hobgoblin mercenaries.
Croatia is also known for their problems with an underground movement. It was a major route for vampires making their way into Europe. The region is situated in the perfect position for this. As many vampire breeds cannot travel over open or flowing water it is safer for them to travel overland, and the Bosporus Strait was easier to cross than any other. This happened centuries ago at least, and the creatures have now spread out, infesting new lands, and mutated into bloodsucking creatures of all kinds. It also has its own vampire hunters called Krsniks (or Krsnik singularly). These are shamans who can leave their body in a trance to hunt down vampires. The classic vampire, the Nosferatu, and Strigoi can all be found here. Every once in a while striges break out in large swarms. Many of the vampires have over time made their way north and west occupying ancient structures belonging to previous civilisations. It also does not help that Frankia & Byzantium is at war constantly in Croatia, as this leads to the perfect cover for vampires. They blend into the soldiers, and can travel in military organisations easy enough, and their kills can be easily hidden.

Type

Court, Royal