The Nulakesh Empire dominated central Sarlona for centuries before the Sundering. Nulakesh lacked the magical or philosophical sophistication of many of the smaller kingdoms, but it had a large, dedicated population and extensive natural resources, along with a superbly disciplined army. Nulakesh went through many periods of expansion and decline over the centuries, and it was fading when the quori came to Sarlona. Dream manipulation helped inspire the Nulakesh war leaders to reclaim their ancestral glory and, later, to convert the disgruntled populace to the Path of Inspiration. The strong martial tradition continues to the present day, and much of the Harmonious Shield is recruited from this province.
The Nulakeshi despise nonhumans; as a result, shifters and ogres are rarely deployed in this province. The Nulakeshi are deeply devoted to the Inspired, and the daily exercises of the peasants often have a martial theme. Many people who would be commoners in other provinces are trained as warriors.