Arthurian Geography

The Isles of Britain

Fancy Map of Britain (HUGE): [[Here]]

Nations and Dynasties:

• Armorican Lands: Brown
• French Lands: Blue
• Fuedal Britons: Light Yellow
• County of Hampshire: Bright Orange
• Irish Lands Under the Irish High King's Rule: Light Green
• Duchy of Lindsey: Gray
• House of Pellwy Lands: Bright Orange
• House of Pendragon Lands: Gold
• Pict Lands: Garnet
• Duchy of Salisbury: Crimson
• Saxon Lands: Dun Yellow
• Semi-Feudal to Tribal Cymri Lands: Peach
• Duchy of Silchester: Light Purple

Cymric Kingdoms:

• Logres: After years of warfare, Arthur Pendragon, Duke of Windsor, King of Logres, High King of Britain, has finally united this land fully after years of anarchy and civil war. Logres is a feudal kingdom, in which the major Barons, Counts, and Dukes pledge fealty to King Arthur in return for a fair amount of autonomy and aid in times of war. Each major lord maintains a group of sworn vassals who provide him military service in return for land; he then aids Arthur in war when called upon, at least in theory. Most of the urban folk are Roman Christian Romans; most of the country folk are Cymric Pagans or increasingly Cymric Christians.
  • County of Bedegraine: Much of the county of Bedegraine is forest, but with wide open spaces around its two capitals--Bedegraine and Nottingham, the Summer and Winter capitals. It's cities are Roman in culture and Nottingham is home to a Roman Christian Bishop; the countryside is Cymric Christians. Nottingham is noteworthy for its underground residences, which stay a comfortable, though slightly cool, temperature year round, while Bedegraine is home to a large castle around which a town has grown up. This land has suffered many years of civil war and remains weak. Count Molacus perished at Badon, his young son Darius (499- ), a brave and honest but not too bright young man, now rules here.
  • Duchy of East Anglia (Caercolun): Duke Hervis de Revel(485-) rules over this land, brutalizing the Angle peasantry. It is a haven for second and third sons of nobles who have come to claim lands. The peasants are restless and the Duke is disgruntled that Essex, once part of Caercolun, is now a seperate County ruled by an Occitanian. He's also angry because everyone keeps calling him Duke of East Anglia instead of using the proper name!
    • Norwich: Second City of Logres, it was capital of the Duchy of Caercolun and now is being rebuilt to be the capital again; it is a major sea port and the Duke, despite hating his subjects, has not hesitated to employ Angle shipwrights to begin building him a fleet to protect his trade.
  • Duchy of Cornwall: Duke Madoc is dead; his son Uriel (497- ) now holds the title of Steward of Cornwall and Count of the Long Isles. His mother, Duchess Elaine of Cornwall (476- ) still nominally rules, but she's allowed him to take over the job in all but name, retiring from public affairs to mourn her fallen husband. Steward Uriel also holds fealty over the County of Totnes, which Armorica holds in fief from him. (He also controls part of Ireland and part of the Long Isles as personal fiefs). Cornwall itself is inhabited by a mix of Cymric Pagans (rural) and Cymric Christians (Urban). Tin mining and fishing dominate the economy. It is home to perhaps the strongest citadel in Britain--Tintagel.
    • County of Devon: The moors of Devon are haunted by giants, men say, though they are rarely seen. Exeter is a significant southern port and fishing center, and many small villages dot the land. Count Cador (472-), cousin of Duchess Elaine, rules this land efficiently and justly as his father Cadwy before him did. Fealty to Duke Madoc and Duchess Elaine. Cymric Christian in the towns, Cymric Pagans in the countryside.
    • County of Jagent: Earl Marcus (Roman, Roman Christian, 474- ) rules over this land with an iron fist, trying to preserve old Roman ways and to reclaim Somerset, which once answered to his family. This seems unlikely with recent shifts in the power structure of Britain, frustrating him. Roman Christian in culture, home to a Roman Christian Bishop. Fealty to Duke Madoc and Duchess Elaine.
    • County of Tintagel: Cold and rocky, a mix of hills, moors, and wastes, most of its folk live in forts or fishing villages, for the catch is always good. It is the frontline of defense against the Kingdom of Armorica. Duchess Elaine also holds this county as her personal fief. Most of the folk are Cymric Pagans with Christians in the nobility.
      • Castle Tintagel: Capital of the Duchy of Cornwall and the County of Tintagel, it is an old Roman fortress now adapted into a castle of vast strength. It is currently undergoing renovations to improve the living quarters.
  • County of Dorset: Praetor Nerva (478- ), son of Praetor Domitian (who died in 495 AD), rules over this land where Roman culture lingers on to the south of Salisbury. Its folk are strongly oriented towards fishing and herding. It has a strong rivalry with Jagent, and a firm alliance with Salisbury. Strongly Roman Christian and home to a Roman Christian bishop.
  • County of Essex: Ruled over by Count Ector du Maris (490- ), son of King Ban of Ganis, this land has become a focus for Occitanian exiles, since the conquest of Ganis by King Claudus II of France. The peasantry are Saxons, but seem content with their new masters, perhaps because the Occitanians don't hate them and they COULD be ruled by Hervis de Revel. Which would be MUCH worse. Indeed, the Saxons here seem much more loyal to their new lords than Saxons anywhere else.
  • County of Hereford: This once green and pleasant land has long been under strict military rule in order to survive. Count Cunobarrus (489-) has taken near dictatorial powers over the land and rules very firmly, sometimes harshly. Count Cunobarrus is rather unhappy over the creation of the County of Essex as he believes that land rightfully belongs to him, who so long fought against Essex. Here, feudalism is much more like the Roman army than it is in the rest of Logres. Discontent with the harsh discipline is rising now that the land is no longer in danger. It is strongly allied to Duke Ulfius. Cymric Christian in culture.
  • County of Huntingdon: Count Andrew (475- ) has an unusual interest in scholarship and continues to patronize his father Count William's university--Cambridge. It teaches the Trivium (Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric) and the Quadrivium (arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy), then philosophy, theology, law, and medicine. Many famous knights sponsor students there, following the lead of the famous Sir Conal of the Knights of Victory. Count Andrew has a rivalry with Duchess Blandine over her creation of a rival university--Oxford. This land is often raided but was once green and pleasant. It is strongly allied to Duke Ulfius. The cities are Roman Christian, the countryside is Cymric Christian.
  • County of the Isle of Man: Count Trajan (503 - ), the very young grandson of the old Count Adrian, now 'rules' here, his father and grandfather having been slain at Badon. His relatives are squabbling over the regency. This island acts as the base of the Western Fleet, which tries to fight off Pictish and Irish raiders. The Isle of Man has a mixed Irish and Cymric culture ruled over by feudalized Cymric elites. Also, they have tail-less cats. Arthur has begun construction of a grand new naval base here, to house the Western Fleet and increase its size. A major Cymric Christian monastery is rulled by Abbot Coneth (463-).
  • County of Lambor: Count Nwythed (473-) is an honest man with a little too much fondness for drink. He has let go of his old feud with Lindsey with the exile of Derfel to the kitchens, though he can't be said to be too friendly to Bedevere either. Much of Lambor is forest and wilderness. The rural folk are Cymric Christians as are the city folk.
  • Duchy of Lindsey: Duke Bedevere (489- ) is a quiet, hard-working man who has gained Arthur's trust and friendship by pledging to him despite his father, Duke Derfel (468-)'s rebellion. Derfel now works in Arthur's kitchens. Duke Derfel has come to the throne, succeeding his father Corneus. Eastern Lindsey is deep forest currently ruled by Saxons; western Lindsey has more farmland and is still ruled by Bedevere. Count Lucan (490-) is Bedevere's younger brother; he holds the title of Arthur's butler and spends most of his time at Arthur's court. So does Duke Bedevere, who has become Arthur's Cup-Bearer. Thus, their land is ruled in their absence by Regent Lucius, their cousin (485-), who is a good administrator, but a little on the greedy side. Bedevere and Lucan have a younger sister, Marcia, who was a suitor for Arthur's hand.
    • Lincoln: Capital of the Duchy of Lindsey, it is an old Roman city and still Romanized in culture. It is home to a Roman Christian Bishop.
    • County of Banshire: A mixed land of Saxons and Cymrics, it is ruled by Count Lucan, brother of Duke Bedevere. It is mostly farmland.
    • County of Sorestan: Many bands of Saxon bandits hide in the deep forests here, but in theory, this land of Saxon peasants is now ruled over by Count Llewyn (482- ), cousin of Duke Bedevere. Much of the land is forest.
  • County of Lonazep: Lonazep is a marshy backwater, quiet and rural home to Cymric Christians without any significant cities, though it has a few market towns. However, it has a new ruling class of Occitanians, followers of its new Count, Count Paul le Blanc (482- ), younger brother of King Bors of Ganis, given him as a reward for Ganis' aid in the war. The Count is rather arrogant but also very generous, demanding obedience, but trying to tax his peasants lightly.
  • London and Windsor: The Duchy of London and Windsor is Arthur's personal domain. It is very rich and prosperous despite decades of Saxon raids. Arthur has begun the process of rebuilding Windsor from a Castle + small town to a HUGE Castle plus substantial city, which he intends to name Camelot.
    • London: This city is still heavily Roman in culture. It is also the biggest city of Logres.
    • Windsor: This is a small castle plus a small town now both being upgraded by Arthur to serve as a capital for Logres.
  • County of Rydychan: Long ruled by usurpers, this land is now ruled by Countess Blandine (491- ), sister of King Arthur, who granted it to her after the death of the heiress at the hands of assassins in 512 AD and the overthrow that same year of the usurpers who had ruled it--Sir Bege, Sir Beleus and Sir Basile.
  • Duchy of Salisbury: Duke Robert, (484- ) son of the now dead Earl Roderick (died 495 AD), and his wife Duchess Cornelia, rules this land, home to Stonehenge. This is the default starting land. It is home to the famous Knights of Victory.
    • County of Circencester: This was once part of the County of Clarence; it is the eastern half, now conquered by Salisbury. Count Matthew (473-), son of Elad, is Count of Circenster, a pleasant land of Roman Christians in the cities and Cymric Christians in the countryside. Circenster has a Roman Bishop. The Count is a very brave man.
      • Barony of Chippenham: This southern town of Circenster is ruled by Baron Ian (470- ) of the Knights of Victory, who helped storm the city with Sir Cuthwulf during the wars of the Anarchy. He is married to Joanna, a lady of the Lake. It is a community of Roman Christians.
    • Barony of Marlboro: Once prosperous, this land has suffered years of war. It also has had to pledge fealty to Salisbury and is now part of the Duchy of Salisbury. It is ruled by Baron Rhodri (488 - ), son of Baron Gwydno (dead as of 495 AD), who seems to have become taciturn and withdrawn after all his troubles. He has recently married but he and his wife Joan (from Lambor) fight all the time.
    • Sarum: Capital of the Earldom of Salisbury and now home to the Archbishop of Sarum, who holds sway over Logres' Roman Christian churches.
  • Duchy of the Saxon Shore: This land is ruled over by Duke Cerdric and consists of two counties:
    • County of Hampshire: As of 496 AD, Duke Cerdric (461-), son of Vortigern, Duke of the Saxon Shore, rules this land, a mixed kingdom / county of Saxons and Gewissi tribe Cymrics. It has once again become a strong and prosperous land, though it is still fairly tired from years of warfare with Aelle, followed by civil war in Logres. A mix of Roman Christian urban folk and Saxon Wotanics and Cymric Pagans in the countryside.
      • Hantonne: This bustling port city, called 'Southhampton' by the Saxons, is very prosperous and is home to Arthur's Southern Naval Base; the fleet here includes a substantial number of Saxon style ships.
      • Winchester: Capital of the County of Hampshire, it is now a strange mix of Roman, Saxon, and Cymric architecture.
    • County of Sussex: This is a former Saxon Kingdom, now ruled over by Praetor Negrus (483- ), vassal of Duke Cerdric, with the help of a mix of Saxon, Roman, and Cymric Barons and knights. It is a very rich and profitable land and home to vast timber reserves. Unfortunately, Saxon bandits now hide in the Weald forest.
  • Duchy of Silchester: Once home to the Atrebates tribe, this Duchy is mainly Cymrics ruled by a Roman elite. Duke Ulfius (451- ) has finally died and is now followed by his son Grotius (478-) and his wife, Jenna of Salisbury, after the failed revolt of Ulfiu's eldest son, Granicus. Despite all this, Silchester is flourishing.
    • Silchester: Capital of the Duchy of Silchester. It is largely Romanized in culture.
    • Earldom of Kent: Earl Anthraxus (480- ) and his wife Martha now rule this land of Saxons; he's starting to learn why his older brother was willing to leave it to him... The locals are very resentful of Silchester rule, but the House of Ulfius suppressed resistance firmly. For now. Saxon pirates haunt his shores, however and bandits hide in the deep forest. He owes fealty to Silchester.
  • County of Tribuit: The Forest Sauvage has consumed this land and many who enter it vanish. Count Dwyfel, son of Dwyfed (495 - ) now rules this land and is asking for help from knights in reclaiming his lands from the enchantments which beset them. The new count is very handsome and very hard-working, unlike his lazy father. This land is largely home to Cymric Christians and Pagans.
  • County of Wuerensis: This land has been torn by years of civil war, and the original ruling house has entirely died out except for Gwynneth, daughter of Defi, who has foresworn the throne, but now has formed an order of female knights, which calls itself the Order of Boadicca, after the ancient British warrior queen. King Arthur has appointed Sir Brastias to become Count Brastias of Wuerensis (461- ). As Brastias has no children, it's expected to revert to the throne on his death, and competition for it is already starting. Many are stunned he somehow survived Badon. Count Brastias has appointed his nephew Reginald (487 - ) to rule in his stead. Reginald is a good administrator but not a very good fighter. He is married to Helena, daughter of Rhogwyn (493 - ).
• The Far North (Lothian): Once, these lands were united under the rule of the Votadini tribe and King Lot. Arthur has released the old vassal kings from their allegiance to Lothian and required they pledge to him directly. Further, he has divided Lothian into five Duchies, one for each of Lot's five sons (Lothian--Gawaine, Glasgow--Aggravaine, Tayside--Gaheris, Angus--Gareth, Fife--Mordred). These Duchies answer to the Steward of Lothian, appointed by Arthur, a role currently held by Queen Morgause (474 - ), widow of King Lot and half-sister to King Arthur.
  • Benoic: Cymric Pagan knights of Votadini descent, led by Duke Conan II, son of Conan I (490- ), a cautious ruler but an excellent host, rule over semi-civilized tribes of lowlander Picts from hill forts and motte-and-bailey castles. The Picts remain largely Heathen but have come to accept their current state.
  • Garloth: King Nenfel, son of Nentres (484 - ) rules this cold but fertile lowland kingdom. He is a harsh and unfriendly man, who owes fealty to King Arthur, but resents his father's death at Badon.
  • Gorre: King Uriens (462 - ) rules over the heaths and moors and hills of this large kingdom, home to many sheep and not so many people as you might expect. He owes fealty to King Arthur. His son and heir Yvaine (500-) is now a knight of more valor than sense. Cymric and British Pagan.
  • The Five Duchies of Lothian: Lot's personal desmene has now been broken into five Duchies plus the Steward's Desmene (centered around the Castle of Maidens, the old castle and the finest stronghold north of Hadrian's Wall). Each Duchy is to be ruled by one of Lot's children when they come of age. Many of its folk are defiantly British Pagan, but around the Castle of Maidens, the populace increasingly converts to British Christianity, under Morgause's influence. Queen Morgause, widow of Lot, is now Steward.
  • Strangorre: This small kingdom is now ruled over, in theory, by the King's half-sister Morgan (485-). In practice, she has appointed a fellow Lady of the Lake, Antoinette (473- ) as regent and the Kingdom has fallen under the sway of the Ladies of the Lake. Relatives of the old dynasty are thought to be hiding in exile, but Morgan does not seem to fear them. It owes fealty to King Arthur.
• Malahaut: Bernard de Apres (483- ) is the young, proud ruler of this land, now shrunken in territory. He has adopted the title King of a Hundred Knights (though he actually has many more than that), and seems to have accepted his father's death fighting Arthur's men. (Many expect he must be faking it.) He governs from Eburacum, the Second City of Britain, home to the Archbishop of Eburacum, who rules over the Roman Christians of the North, Far North, and Malahaut.
  • Brigantia: The old homeland of the Brigantine Tribe, this is King Bernard's own desmene. Roman Christian in culture. It is green and pleasant in the summer and brown and frozen over in winter.
  • Catterick: Count Ieuan (467- ) has long hated the Saxons and seems to regret they were conquered, not exterminated to the last man. He and his Cymric Pagan subjects will seize any chance to kill a Saxon they can find. However, this mountainous land no longer has any and is starting to settle down to peaceful herding and the usual round of violent feuds over grazing land.
  • Lestroite: This county, guarded from the Saxons by Ripon and Catterick, has flourished, controlling one of the mountain passes from Castle Etroite. Count Pertacus (478- )has stewarded his land well and grown wealthy. Which has not endeared him to Ripon or Catterick. He is quite loyal to the King of Malahaut. He is Roman, as are his people, Roman and Roman Christian.
  • Maris: A swampy land full of strange Cymric Pagans who worship strange gods and eat weird foods. They give fealty to Malahaut, but cannot be accused of enthusiasm. It is unclear to outsiders how they are governed.
  • Nohaut: A restless forest land of Saxon peasants and Cymric lords and lots of bandits. It is ruled by Bernard's cousin, Count Frank (485- ), who is harsh to the peasantry but a good and generous man to his knights.
  • Pase: Countess Dwynwyn having choked on a grape, this land is home to an ongoing civil war between her grandchildren for the succession. King Bernard seems to be sitting back to see who will emerge victor, perhaps hoping to cull the herd of her children and grandchildren. Home to Cymric British Christians.
  • Ripon: The County of Ripon feels its piety finally rewarded; monasteries and churches dot the rolling lands of Ripon in vast numbers. Indeed, the whole area is increasingly owned by British Christian churches and abbeys. Its leader, Count Neddig (467- ) is a very pious man who wishes to build a grand cathedral but can't afford it.
• Norgales: Whoever holds the Crown of Conquest rules Norgales, or at least can easily take it over once he assembles and army--and the crown will call an army to a worthy wearer, they say. Currently, the Cymric kingdom of Gomeret dominates Norgales under the leadership of the often absent King Pellinore. For now, everyone who would contest this is dead and it's ruler is known to have the favor of the Knights of Victory. However, King Pellinore has now been gone to the North for years, has yet to return, and no one is sure what's going on, other than that the Crown of Conquest has yet to reappear...
  • Cameliard: King Leodegrance (467- ) is friendly to Uther, but his land was conquered by King Pellinore's father, King Pellwy during the wars with Vortigern and has remained under Norgales' thumb ever since. King Leodegrance has now married Dywnyn the Fair, as of 490 AD, thanks to the PCs. His land is fairly civilized, home to Cymric British Christians. His daughter Guenevere (491-) is now married to Christopher Dagwaldus, eldest son of Sir Brandon of the Knights of Victory.
  • Chester, City of Legions: Once a Duchy of Logres, this land fell to King Pellinore's father, King Pellwy. Praetor Nigerius (468-) now rules this land, his father (Praetor Litumarus) having perished during the Battle of Terrabil in 512. Praetor Nigerius is very strict and disciplined and cautious. The populace is Roman and Roman Christian. His daughter is named Amara (495-) and is one of the suitors for the hand of Arthur.
  • Gomeret: This Kingdom currently rules over Norgales, under the leadership of King Pellinore. In theory. In practice, he's off hunting and adventuring a lot and his brothers run things, squabbling with each other. The capital is Bangor. The populace is Cymric and British Christian.
  • Gwaelod: This land is preserved from the sea by an elaborate dike system, ruled by the efficient and generous King Llewellyn (467- ). It is home to Cymric Pagans, but relatively civilized ones.
  • Merionyyd: This is a collection of Cymric Pagan Hill Tribes ruled over by King Rhodoc (488- ), a young, strong warrior, the youngest son of Queen Bliant. Left behind to guard the homeland, he was the only member of the royal family to survive trying to fight Pellinore and Arthur in 510-3. It is unclear whether he will be able to hold things together, though if you can do it by stabbing, he's your man.
  • Norgales: Norgales has collapsed into a bunch of fractured, squabbling cantons who give fealty to Pellinore so he won't kill them like he and Arthur's men killed their fathers. There are rumors of children of former Kings Ryons and Nero hiding out somewhere, waiting for revenge. Though if they exist, no one is sure of their name, appearance, etc...
  • Orofoise: Count Nwyfannon (490- ) is the young leader of this decaying Cymric Christian land. With every generation, it seems to shrink in power and glory, though it still proudly holds a seat in the Supreme Collegium. Many think he resents his father's death but knows better than to try anything.
  • Powys: A collection of Cymric Pagan Hill Tribes who owe loose fealty to their 'High King', Belinans (478 - ), who sits in the capital of Caer Bellis and holds a seat on the Supreme Collegium. They fight each other a lot.
• The North: A collection of territories which once owed allegiance to Malahaut, but now swear to Arthur as High King. In theory, anyway...
  • Cambenet: Duke Hargrave (485- ), son of Duke Bach, rules from the mighty fortress of Carduel, which the Romans built to anchor Hadrian's wall. Duke Bach perished at Badon. Duke Hargrave is more merchant than Duke, working hard to turn his home into a major trade center with much success. He has a small fleet at his command. His daughter Raye seems to be fae-touched from having tried to elope to Listenisse with her lover.
  • Duchy of Lancashire: Ruled by a Sheriff appointed by Duke Kay, adoptive brother of King Arthur, this is mostly thick forest (the Forest Perilous) and scattered villages. Sheriff Horace (476- ) spends all his time roaming the roads breaking up petty tyrants and fighting banditti and Pictish raiders from the sea. He has pretensions to spreading Roman culture in the area. They may well remain pretensions, especially with a fair amount of his income going off to the absent Duke Kay...
  • Listeneisse: This is a poor kingdom of moors and heaths and rocky ground, ruled by King Pellam (442-), reclusive pious brother of King Pellinore. Rarely raided because there is little worth taking.
  • Rheged: A nest of hill and mountain Cymric Pagan tribes who raid their neighbors as much as they fight the saxons. Their King, Eurfar, son of Eurwyd (485- ), has his eyes on Carduel, not that he has any hope of ever taking it.
  • Rouse: A collection of British Christian Cymric hill tribes, ruled from Castle Rouse by the Duke of Rouse, Bran pen Pellnyyd (470 - ). The Duke is working on gradually civilizing his subjects, who no longer raid their neighbors at the drop of a hat.
  • Umans: This petty county controls one of the routes across the Pennines. The motte-and-bailey castle at Buxton commands the pass. Count Gwegon (473- ) seems to make 'not being noticed' one of his primary goals for his county.
• Surgales:
  • Escavalon: Advised by his mother Catiana (daughter of the Duke of Chester, 465 - ), Owain the Young (497- ) now is King of Escavalon. He is the son of the now dead King Nanteleod the Strong (460 - ). The king is brave, but inexperienced and has a reputation for deceit. He is married to Cecille of the House of Cuthwulf, cousin to Lord Lt. Edwin of Surgales. He has two sisters, Albiona (492-) and Antonia (494-). Fertile lowlands and forest.
  • Galvoie: A tiny densely forested kingdom; there are many places within in it which touch the Other Side. It is ruled by Abbot Gueverock from La Roche Sanguine, which is now home to the Abbey of the Perfect Sacrifice. The Abbot is also a member of the Supreme Collegium.
  • Gloucester: Capital of the Duchy of Gloucester. With the death of Duke Paul the Clever (441- ), Duke Paul's two children (The Red and Green Knights, born 469 and 470) have gone to war with each other for control of the land. It is a very feudal and civilized land. Roman in the cities, Cymric in the countryside, Christian everywhere.
  • Mountain Kingdoms: A collection of hill tribes who owe fealty to King Arthur. Barely civilized pagan Cymri. Arthur has appointed King Cuthwulf of Brycheniog, one of the Knights of Victory, as Lord Lieutenant of Surgales to watch over this area for him. With Cuthwulf's passing to Avalon, his son Edwin (495 - )is now trying to hold everything together.
  • Kingdom of Somerset: King Aurelianus, son of Antonius (486- ) rules proudly over his now much larger kingdom, owing fealty only to High King Arthur. (His father perished at Badon) This is a very civilized land in which Roman culture flourishes. The Ladies of the Lake are said to have their hidden base here near the Abbey of Glastonbury.
    • Bath: A still Romanized city noted for its baths and for having the Bishop of Baths, cleanest bishop in Britain, Cadfannon. Capital of the Kingdom of Somerset.
• Totnes: This is now a county of the Duchy of Cornwall. But it's held in fief from Cornwall by King Mark of Armorica, who has sub-enfuedated it to his cousin, Count Titus (485- ) The populace is mostly Roman Christian. It holds a seat in the Supreme Collegium, occupied by Count Titus.
  • Lyonesse: This is a 'kingdom' at the far western tip of Cornwall; much of it is small islands. It owes fealty to Count Titus and thus to King Mark of Armorica. It is ruled by 'King' Melodias (467- ). British Christian

Irish Lands:

• Connacht: The poorest yet largest of the Kingdoms of Ireland. It is highly dependent on the port of Galway, through which it exports its excess produce and imports its few luxuries. Its army is large, but poor in quality. Still Pagan. Connacht is working on a civil war over the succession.
  • Cruachu: The ancient hill fort of Cruachu is the traditional site of the king’s seat for this kingdom, built centuries ago by King Eochaid Feidlech for his fiery warrior daughter, Queen Medb. The castle is of the old style, but heavily and crudely built in stone.
• Dal Riada, Dal Ariade, Dal Fiatch: Small Independent kingdoms, once part of Duke Bruenor's Duchy of the Long Isles. Dal Ariade and Dal Fiatch are home to the last of the Formorians, the Pre-Irish peoples of Ireland. Dal Riada is now part of the Kingdom of Ulster. The County of Dal Riada is ruled by Countess Faustine of the House of Rhogwyn. She has appointed her sister Juno as Butler, the former King Tiberius son of Brutus as her Chamberlain and Eionn of the House of Conal as her Marshal. Its traditional capital is a hill fort named Muirbolc along the northeastern coast. Dal Ariade is pledged to Count Uriel, Steward of Cornwall, and Dal Fiatch is now ruled by Duke Aggravaine of the House of Lot. Dunpatrick is the capital of Dal Fiatch, the place where Saint Patrick is buried.
• Estregales: Once a mighty kingdom, it is now a broken shell of a land, ruled by King Canan's son Dirac (472- ), who is rather in over his head. This kingdom is Irish Christian in culture.
  • Cardigan: Home to the major seaport, Cardigan, this Duchy is ruled by Duke Senach (488-), son of Duke Branvarn (458-523 AD), who forced the local hill tribes to submit to central rule. Duke Senach has yet to accomplish anything of that caliber, but he's not too old to do something glorious or crazy yet. Irish Christian elite rules over Cymric Pagans.
  • Estregales: This mostly peaceful and prosperous land is now starting to be increasingly feudalized by its new King, Dirac. Irish Christian elite rules over Cymric Pagans.
    • Pembroke: Capital of the Duchy of Estregales; seat of King Dirac. It is home to one of the strongest fortresses in Gales, and also to Archbishop Dewi, who leads the Cymric Christians of Gales. Sort of.
• Leinster: This land is still in chaos, but King Anguish, son of King Agony, is gradually suppressing his rivals and re-instating it. However, a goodly portion of the old Kingdom is now part of Meath or Munster. Anguish's cousin and heir, Sir Marhaus, has begun introducing feudal ideas into Leinster. Marhaus is friendly to Yvaine, son of King Uriens of Gorre and Steward Uriel of Cornwall.
• 'Duchy' of the Long Isles: An area of Irish colonization once led by Duke Bruenor. Conquered by Prince Ronan of Munster and King Eamon of Meath for Uther in 490-1 AD. It is now divided between Count Rhogwyn and Steward Uriel of Cornwall.
  • County of Argyll: Ruled by Count Rhogwyn, Elder Knight of Victory, this county is famous for its single malt liquors, especially whiskey. Dunadd Fort, Duke Bruenor's old home, is now the County Seat. Baron Padern (493 - ), husband of Rapunzel (daughter of Rhogwyn), is Steward of Argyll, running it in the absence of Rhogwyn or Augustus.
  • County of Mull: Ruled by Count Uriel, Steward of Cornwall, this county is dominated by the Island of Mull, ruled from Castle Tobermory. Its inhabitants are Cymric British Christians; the famous monastery of Iona is located in this county.
• Meath: Under the rule of King Eamon the Hardy, son of Fergal (462- ), this kingdom has recovered its strength and now rules part of Leinster and Oriel as well as its home territories. Its Christian and Pagan clans have learned to work together for the good of the land.
  • Clonard: Clonard is the greatest monastery is Ireland, having 3000 students. It was only recently founded by Findian of Clonard, who introduced the British monastic system as practiced by Saint Dewi (David) of Menevia. The greatest ecclesiastical minds of Ireland are studying here.
• Munster: A strong pagan kingdom with some of the best farmlands in Ireland. And the best cheese. King Federmin (462- ) rules the whole land and part of Leinster, but faces heavy discontent from his own lords due to his wild behavior and tendencies to favoritism.
• Tara: Home to the High Kings; changes hand according to who has the upper hand. Currently held by Connacht.
• Ulster: Destroyed in 451 AD, this kingdom now lives again under the rule of Queen Deborah I (486- ), said to be a descendent of Niall of the Nine Hostages. It is a fragile land, only recently united by the Knights of Victory. Its capital is Ard Macha, also known as Armagh, where Saint Patrick built his first church. It is now a mix of feudal and traditional ways.
  • County of Donegal: Ruled by 'Count' Finnchad of the Tir Connail, a line of descent from Niall of the Nine Hostages. Home to 160 HV / 80 KV of troops. It is fairly hilly and some parts are mountainous. This county is semi-Christianized. Donegal is a strong Irish fort with a small port town. The Count has three brothers of note: Bruatan, Russ, and Ulthan
  • County of Fermangh: Ruled by 'Count' Lorccan of the Tir Connail, a line of descent from Niall of the Nine Hostages. Hilly in the west, fertile plains in the east, this county is home to 160 HV / 80 KV of troops. Most of the locals are Irish pagans, but there are some Christian clans.
  • Duchy of Oriel: This is the Royal Desmene of Ulster, held by the Queen herself. It is a mixture of Pagan and Irish Christian clans and most of its forces (400 hobilar values or 200 knight values) are traditional Irish clan chiefs and warriors.
    • Ard Macha / Armagh: The Capital of Ulster is Ard Macha, also known as Armagh, where Saint Patrick built his first church. Deborah is in the process of building a castle and a traditional Logres style town here. There is a very large monastery here, home to the Abbot of Ard Macha / Bishop of Armagh, who is also called the Bishop of Oriel. He feuds with the Bishop of Derry for control of Ulster Christianity.
    • Dun Dealga / Dundalk: Home to the powerful Airthir clan, Christianized Irish, who used to control Ard Macha and aren't happy about losing it, though their increased trade helps. This is home to a traditional Irish clan fortress and a growing port town.
  • County of Tyrone: Ruled by Countess Strabo of the House of Heldebad. Largely forest and plains with hills in the west, this county is home to 180 HV / 90 KV of troops. It is fairly Christianized in the Irish manner. Derry is a small walled port town in the Logres style centered around a very large monastery, home to the Bishop / Abbot of Derry, who claims spiritual leadership of Tyrone, Donegal and Fermangh. He feuds with the Bishop of Armagh for leadership of Ulster Christians.

Pictish Lands

• Here Be Picts: Many small Pictish Kingdoms exist on the mainland. Who can keep track? And why would you care? They all hate you anyway. All heathen, all the time. Somewhere in this mess is a mountain home to oracular Eagles.
• Orkney Isles: Home to half-frozen-to-death Picts. Heathen when not too cold to believe in anything. Ruled by Queen Morgause, who is also Steward of Lothian.
• Out Isles: Home to sea-going raider Picts. All heathen, all the time.

Saxon Lands

• The Saxon lands have been conquered and subjected to Arthur or Bernard.

France in 525 AD

France is divided into five kingdoms:

• Kingdom of Brittany, aka Kingdom of Cornwall: Ruled by King Mark, now a vassal of King Arthur. Cymric in Culture, Roman Christian in religion.
• Kingdom of France: Ruled by the four children of King Claudus of the Franks, each of whom now claims the title of King: Childebert, Dagobert, Gaiseric, and Claudus II. Frankish in Culture, Roman Christian in religion (Nominally. Many are still Pagan or even Wotanic in religion). The crudest of the Lands. Now under Ostrogothic Rule
• Kingdom of Ganis: Once ruled by King Ban of Benwick and King Bors of Bourdeaux, this Kingdom has ceased to exist, though it remains Occitanian in culture, Arian Christian in religion.
• Kingdom of Gaul: A collection of semi-independent counties currently pledging fealty to King Theodoric, the Ostrogothic ruler of Italy. This is the most civilized region of France. Occitanian and Roman in culture, Arian Christian in religion, with some Roman Christians in the cities. There are also a fair number of Jews in these lands. It owes a loose fealty to King Louis of Dauphin.
• Province (Duchy) of Normandy: Until 485 AD, a small group of Romans held out around the city of Paris, led by Praetor Syagrius, referred to by many as 'The Last of the Romans'. They referred to their lands as the 'Province of Soissons'. Defeated by Claudus, they fled into exile in Logres. Now, with Claudus I dead, they have seized control of Normandy.

Kingdom of Brittany: Brittany was settled in the last century or so by waves of refugees from Britain. While it gave haven to Uther and Ambrosius in exile, its current King, Mark, has little love for King Arthur but is now forced to be his Vassal. He also rules Totnes, in Logres, holding it in fief from the Duchy of Cornwall. Mark has two children, Prince Matthew (490- ) and Princess Maria (493- )

• Duchy of Benoit: Ruled from Benwick, this Duchy is ruled by Steward Anthony (479- ) for King Mark; it is a rich farmland and very prosperous. Occitanian and Arian Christian in culture. Steward Anthony rules with a steady hand, but collects more taxes than the locals like.
• Duchy of Cornouailles: 'Little Cornwall', the Royal Duchy of Brittany. Now ruled by King Mark, son of Idris. Cymric and British Christian. A mix of fishermen and farmers live here.
• Duchy of Domnonie: Settled by refugees from Vortigern. Ruled by Duke Hoel, cousin of King Uther and of King Idris. Cymric and British Christian. It is quiet pasture and farmland.
• Duchy of Leon: The desmene of Prince Matthew, son of Mark, heir to the throne. Cymric and British Christian. Most of its folk are fishermen. It contains the village of Asterius, which claims to have never bowed to Roman rule.
• Duchy of Vannetais: The most romanized region of Brittany. Ruled by Praetor Severus. Roman and Roman Christian. The richest agricultural lands are found here, along with wineries, superior to those of Logres, but inferior to those of Champagne and Burgundy.
• The Broceliande: This thick, fae-haunted forest occupies a fair amount of the interior, touching all four duchies. Few dare to walk within.

Kingdom of France: The Franks first entered the Roman empire in the late 300s as foederati, invited in to defend the frontier; the current Duchy of Flanders was their original home. As Roman authority collapsed, they gradually pushed south, overruning most of their current territory in the aftermath of Chalons-sur-Marne, after Aetius' death. Their advance has been slowed by the periodic division of the Kingdom among heirs who then kill each other until one reunites the whole thing. King Claudus I was the latest beneficiary of this process, triumphing over his siblings in the early 480s. He was aided by Roman Catholic priests, and has converted his people to Roman Christianity as a result. However, King Claudus I has died as of 489 AD and now his children have taken Power: Childebert (Anjou and Berry), Dagobert(Normandy and Flanders), Gaiseric(half of Champagne, Burgundy, March of Lorraine), and Claudus II (Ile-de-France, half of Champagne, March of Alsace). Dagobert is, as of 491 AD, a prisoner of Praetor Sygagius, and Claudus II now holds the Duchy of Flanders. Childebert is, as of 507 AD, a prisoner of Claudus II of France. In 511 the Burgundians revolted against Gaiseric, and in 513, he was captured by Claudus II. Claudus II (464-) now rules uncontested and seems to be initiating some governmental reforms. He has also instituted a system of yearly tournaments to keep his troublesome vassals quiet. However, he has been conquered by the Ostrogoths.

• March of Alsace: The March of Alsace is one of two Marches created to facilitate defense against Allemani raiders crossing the Rhine. It is frequently troubled by raids. Its capital, Metz, is home to a great Roman Christian cathedral which is the site where Kings of France will henceforth be crowned. Mark Huon (460- ) still has his eyes on Lorraine and is disgruntled that Claudus II didn't give it to him. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• County of Berry: Frankish and nominal Roman Christian. Its count is dead and its enemies have partitioned it. The county gets its name from the huge numbers of berries cultivated here, some of which are turned into fine liquers and others of which are sold as treats to other counties and duchies. Its jam and jelly production is quite impressive. The balli and balliwick system has been extended to Claudus' sections of Berry. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• Duchy of Burgundy: The Duchy of Burgundy was carved in stages out of the Kingdom of Burgundy to its east; its subject people grumble and are usually close to revolt. Dijon is noted for its master chefs and master brewers, who produce many fine sauces and fine wines. Frankish or Burgundian (Treat as Frankish) and nominal Roman Christian. Duke Tiberius (440- ) is an old Roman from Paris, appointed as the new Duke by Claudus II, who he mentored in Claudus' youth. He has begun a very harsh crackdown on the Burgundians, and is a man of strict discipline. His grandson Domitian (490- ) is expected to succeed him when he dies. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• Duchy of Champagne: Things have become peaceful here and this area now dominates northern wine production. Its Duke makes a point of periodically defying King Claudus to show his independence. Frankish and nominal Roman Christian. Duke Baldwin (465- ) is a very pious man who drinks too much. He likes to collect relics. He is a major backer of the Tournament system and is well pleased to have the rest of his land back. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• Duchy of Flanders: Franks ruling over Frisians (Treat as Saxons). The local rulership has to be a little paranoid of their subjects and get raided a lot from Frisia. Frankish or Frisians (Treat as Saxons) and nominal Roman Christian. Duke Jourdain (458- ) is a brave, honest warrior who focuses on fighting the Frisians; he is known to greatly distrust Mark Ottar of Normandy. The Frisians are noted for their skill as horse breeders and cloth makers and sailors. What passes for a French navy is based here. The Duke of Flanders has sold out and switched loyalty to Claudus II. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• Ile-de-France: King Claudus II rules France from Paris. He has divided his land into 'balliwicks', ruled over by an appointed Bailli, who serves a five year term, then is moved to another balliwick. Thus, he has very tight control over his desmene and is not stuck dealing with hereditary lords at home. The rural populace is Frankish and nominally Roman Christian, while the urban population is Roman Christian. They are coming to respect their new king and many support his reforms. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule
• March of Lorraine: The March of Lorraine is one of two Marches created to facilitate defense against Allemani raiders crossing the Rhine. It is frequently troubled by raids. Strasbourg is an old Roman city, Roman in Culture and Roman Christian in religion. Everywhere else is Frankish and nominal Roman Christian. The old Mark, Labidus Gessius, was hung as a rebel by King Gaiseric, who has appointed Sir Phillipe (472-, noted for his organizational skills more than fighting skills ) as March Governor and extended the system of ballis and balliwicks to the March. Many of the surviving old nobility, who have lost power and place are very disgruntled, but also impotent. The new Bishop of Strasbourg, Hardouin, seems terrified of suffering his predecessor's fate and grovels at the King's feet. Currently under Ostrogothic Rule

Kingdom of Ganis: Currently non-extant, it once encompassed Benoit (Benwick), Bordeaux, Ganis, and Limoges.

Kingdom of Gaul: Loosely united under the leadership of King Louis of Dauphin, the Gaulite Counties and Duchies owe higher fealty to King Theodoric of Italy.

• Duchy of Bourdeaux: Ruled by Duke Theodore (481- ), this is a magnificent land of farms and wineries. Duke Theodore is a little too fond of the fruit of said wineries. Some of the finest wines of the land are produced here, along with fine spirits. Occitanian and Arian Christian in culture.
• Clarmont: Capital of the Duchy of Averoigne, a land of hills and mountains, foggy and haunted by fae and monsters and crazed cults. Occitanian and Arian Christian with a few Jews in Clarmont. Witches and worse stalk the mountains, following the Evil faith. Duke Aalard is well known for being a merciful judge, but also for overeating ; he is quite huge. Clarmont and Languedoc have an ongoing feud for control of the Massif Central (the monster and witch haunted area of mountains and plateaus between them).
• Dauphin: Home to King Louis of Gaul. The capital, Lyon, is a center of cloth manufacture and very prosperous. Lyon is Roman and Roman Christian; the rest of the kingdom is Arian Christian and Occitanian. It has been prophesied that the obscure little town of Avignon will one day be the home of the Papacy, but most think this is a lie intended at promoting trade.
• Duchy of Ganis: Ruled by Duke William, this area is heavily raided by the Visigoths, forcing it to always be on high alert. It produces much good wine...when the grapes survive to maturity. Arian Christian and Occitanian.
• Languedoc: The County of Languedoc combines a northern area of hills and mountains full of monsters, fogs, and evil cults with prosperous estates and plantations in the south. The south is Occitanian and Arian Christian; the north is Occitanian and only nominally Arian Christian. Witches and worse stalk the north, following the Evil faith. Countess Blandine has taken harsh mesaures to try to crush the horrors of the north and rules rather arbitrarily. Indeed, some wonder if she's much better than her foes. Clarmont and Languedoc have an ongoing feud for control of the Massif Central (the monster and witch haunted area of mountains and plateaus between them).
• Duchy of Limoges: Ruled by Duke Ector d'Limoges, this land has pretensions to scholarship, as does its ruler. Arian Christian and Occitanian.
• Narbonne: King Jacob (a Jew!!!) rules this multi-cultural, highly tolerant land. It is home to Occitanians and Romans and to the Jewish, Arian Christian, and Roman Christian faiths. They feud with the border lords of Toulouse.
• Provence: Still strongly Roman in culture. It has many foreigners and Jews as well. Roman and Arian Christian. (Some Occitanians outside Marseilles.) Praetor Marcus Taurinus is a rather greedy man, but he rules his land fairly, except in the matter of Taxes, anyway.
• Toulouse: The Count of Toulouse, Luke, is a firm believer in entertainment and education and his court is a center for music and poetry and even has A SCHOOL! And BOOKS! Occitanian and Arian Christian with some Jews. Some of the border lords of Toulouse have ambitions of seizing Narbonne.

Province (Duchy) of Normandy: This land, ruled by Praetor Magunnus, owes fealty to King Arthur and is considered part of the Kingdom of Logres. It is currently assisting the Gauls, Brittany, and the Ostrogoths in beating up France.

• County of Anjou: Frankish and nominal Roman Christian. A center of fine cheese production. Consul (Count) Optimus Primanus (484-) rules over this land, which is still restless under Normandy's rule.
• Duchy of Normandy: Now ruled by Praetor Magunnus (482- ), son of Sygagius, this land has been organized on Roman lines as much as possible and has a strong central administration and fields a fine army.

Just Off the Map

• Allemania: Home to axe-wielding maniacs, related to the Saxons.
• Burgundy: The Burgundians are now half-ruled by the French and their continued internal strife may well make them all ruled by their neighbors. Treat as Frankish in culture.
• Frisia: A foggy, swampy land of sea-going barbarians related to the Saxons.
• Ostrogothia (Italy): King Theodoric (454- ), to whom Gaul pledges fealty, conquered this land in the 480s. The Ostrogoths and Visigoths can be treated as Occitanian in culture for game purposes. King Theodoric now controls all of this area, and he has been recognized as Western Emperor by Justin I, to whom he is allied. He has begun a campaign to conquer Africa and suppress Docetism (Saracenism) there. It is going well. He is busy conquering the Franks. However, Theodoric has now died and his children are fighting each other.
• Visigothia: A land of Romanized Celts and Iberians ruled over by the Visigoths. Divided into many counties and duchies and slowly sinking into anarchy. It is Arian Christian. It is ruled over by Amalaric, son of Alaric II, crowned in 518 AD after his father's death in Ganis trying to prevent it falling to the French. After a period of regency (518-521) by his uncle Theodoric the Great of the Ostrogoths, Amalaric now rules in his own right. The Ostrogoths and Visigoths can be treated as Occitanian in culture for game purposes.

Further Off the Map

• Africa: Parts of the north are ruled by the Byzantines, others by fierce Berber horsemen, and some by the Vandals. Home to the Donatist Heresy (Saracens). Further south is the Sahara, which few men can cross. There are reports of a new heresy here which views God as a woman instead of a man.
  • Kingdom of Prester John: A mighty Christian empire beyond the Sahara, rumored to possess the Ark of the Covenant.
• Byzantium (Roman Empire): The homeland of the mighty Romans of the East, frequently at war with the Sassanid Empire. With the death of Anastasius I, Justin I has taken the throne. He has renewed the empire's association with the western roman empire of Theodoric I.
  • Anatolia: One of the homelands of the Greeks, a great oval bordered by sea on three sides and mountains on the fourth. Fertile and rich and ancient in civilization. Currently being repressed in punishment for revolting against the Emperor, Anastasius I.
  • Byzantium or Constantinople: This mighty city may well be one of the three greatest cities in the world (after Rome and London, of course). Said to be home to on-going Roman-style games, complete with chariot racing TEAMS. The Reds won in 495 AD.
  • Egypt: Oldest of Civilized lands, a province now of Byzantium and a breadbasket for surrounding lands.
  • Holy Land: Where Jesus lived and preached, a province of Byzantium. Home to the holiest of cities, Jerusalem.
• Cathay: A distant and mysterious empire, home to silk and porcelain makers and ochre-robed bald monks. Some claim it is currently disputed between two rival Emperors. But they claim worms somehow make silk and who could believe that?
• Daneland: Homeland of fierce sea reavers, who allied with King Uther in 494-5 AD. Their current intentions are unclear, but they are ruled by King Hrothgar (480- ), son of King Halfdane. The Knights of Victory helped to put Hrothgar on his throne, so he can be expected to favor them. As of 497 AD, they have forced the Saxons of Nohaut to become their vassals. As of 511 AD, they have organized a large alliance against the High King of Ireland and are at war with him. Dal Riada and Dal Fiatach have sworn fealty to Hrothgar. Troubles in Daneland have caused them to abandon outside conquests and turn inward, though the Knights of Victory slew the monster Grendel who haunted the king's halls. They are in an off and on struggle with the Geats now.
• Geatland: Home to the mighty warrior Beowulf, the Geats are at war with the Danes. Who knows why.
• Sassanid Empire: Once known as Persia, these fierce but honorable warriors are said to worship the sun. They are constantly at war with Byzantium and employ knights of their own, some of whom use bows from horseback instead of swords.
• Varangia: North and east of Byzantium, a nation of river-sailing warriors and traders and the cities they rule. A pagan land.