The March of Bissel was the northernmost frontier of the Kingdom of Keoland, claimed nearly two hundred years ago by the Regent Duke Lyras. It was wrested from Keogh control during the Small War of 438 C.Y. by Furyondian forces, becoming a tributary state for a few decades before being granted palatinate status by King Hugh III. Since then, Bissel has officially enjoyed self-rule; unofficially, there is much debate and dissent as to whom really controls Bissel: the Great Lords of southern Furyondy, via their puppet aristocracy in the capital of Thornward; the Velunese Church of Rao, who tends to the souls of the Ferrondal gentry as well as owning several fiefs within Bissel; or the Keoish King Kimbertos, who surely commands the hearts of the peasantry.
Of the Farmlands Verdant...
Bissel is known for its rich soil, primarily in the western side of the valley, which receives more rainfall from the clouds which commonly abut the Barrier Peaks. The eastern side is more rough and rocky country, climbing into the Lorridges and the Lortmil Mountains beyond. Peasants plow their long strips of farmland with heavy ox-driven ploughs. Primarily wheat and rye are grown in the winter, and oats, barley, peas, and beans in the summer. Bissel is also a source of high-quality wool, raised by both Oeridian shepherds and the reclusive Baklunish tribesmen of the Banner Hills.
Of the Mountains and High Places...
The March is surrounded by several mountain ranges, affording it the advantage of having few invasion routes - north by Ket, east by Veluna, and south by Gran March - most of which are easily patrolled.
Barrier Peaks. This range, forming Bissel's western border, rises from the Banner Hills of southern Ket and continues southwest until it meets the mighty Crystalmists, the greatest of mountain ranges in the Flanaess. The Valley of the Mage lies hidden within these peaks, as well as a number of secluded Dwarf strongholds, if tales are to be believed. The Barriers have many mineral deposits and gems, but tales of Giants and Goblins keep the cautious away.
Banner Hills. These foothills of the Barrier Peaks fall away into plains and forests, but are so rugged as to be nearly indistinguishable from the mountains. The Tuflik River finds its source here, under the eaves of the Bramblewood. Tribes of sullen Baklunish herders live here, as do Orcs and Ogres.
More to Come...