Vyolstagrad (Duchy of)
Location: Continent of Brun, about 250 miles southeast of Alpha, near the northern end of the Final Range. NW
Area: 998 sq. mi. (2,585 sq. km.).
Population: 3,000.
Languages: Heldannic, Traladaran.
Coinage: Coins from various realms accepted (most in circulation are Alphatian); gems or barter commonly used.
Taxes: 20% income tax collected yearly, plus 10% tithe to the Church of Vyolstagrad.
Government Type: Independent duchy.
Industries: Agriculture, logging, hunting.
Important Figures: Nevik (Duke), Alexis Vatutin (Patriarch).
Flora and Fauna: Forest is a primary terrain type in Vyolstagrad, primarily consisting of fir, spruce, sequoia, and oak. The forests are home to wild beasts and birds of various sorts, including wolves, wild boars, bears, weasels (both normal and giant), deer, elk, and moose. Lycanthropes, displacer beasts, panthers and wood decapuses are among the more fearsome denizens. Wood imps and bands of humanoids also dwell in some of the deeper forests. There is decent agricultural land, which yields grain, legumes, and potatoes. Sheep, oxen, dairy cows, and chickens are common. Humanoid tribes of all sorts, especially orcs and goblins, plague the northern hills.
Further Reading: CM4 Earthshaker!, previous almanacs.
Last Year's Events: Barbarian raids
and ruined crops hit the duchy hard, causing casualties and emigration, as well
as a minor revolt.