Dutchy of Markinghamshire
 | |
|---|---|
| Founded | 243 TA |
| Size | Minor Kingdom |
| Fealty | Eastern Reaches |
| Ruler | The High Mark Duke William of Markinghamshire |
| Hex | 2514 |
| Witenagemot |
1 x Guaradian Knights  |
| Warmaster |
1 X Grail Knights  |
Markinghamshire is the second oldest inhabited human settlement in the Eastern Reaches eclipsed only by the Hamlet of Haggelthorn.
Topography
Markinghamshire valley is a very fertile grassland. Most of the population lives in Markinghamshire Castle and the adjacent village southwest of the castle. The cattle and horses roam the open valley under the watchful eyes of the Riders of the Mark.
Culture
The men and women of Markinghamshire hold honor and integrity as integral values and are highly respected outside the Mark. The Riders do not have permanent settlements, but rather they follow their herds and live on the prairie. While a proud and very closed community, the people of the Mark are friendly to strangers - although strangers are not allowed to ride into the valley unescorted.
Major Features
Built on a rocky mountain several thousand feet above the plains, Markinghamshire Castle overlooks both the Duchy to the west and the expanse of Haggelthorn Forest to the east. Remarkably however, the castle can only be approached from the west. Thus, any invaders are seen almost a day before they can get to the castle.
Despite its geographical remoteness and the protection of the recently-built Balinsgate Castle and Eastgate Tower, Markinghamshire Castle was sacked in July 905 TA during the Invasion of the Tang Empire while its standing army was away in service to the King. Control of the castle was returned to the Duke after lengthy negotiations with the Tang Emperor.
Leadership
The High Mark Duke William is the hereditary ruler of Markinghamshire. His bloodline claim to the throne traces its orgins back to a land grant by the King of Teufeldorf in the mid-sixth century TA.