Old Keoland
The fertile Sheldomar Valley is almost completely enclosed by mountains, with the Azure Sea coast along the southeast border. Two great rivers, the Sheldomar and the Javan, feed this vast land. The Pomarj peninsula is counted as part of this area. The primary threat here comes from humanoid and giant marauders in the Crystalmists, Hellfurnaces and Barrier Peaks to the west, and the Orcish Empire of the Pomarj to the east; several states have been invaded by these forces.
After the wars that destroyed the Baklunish and Suloise Empires, demi-humans and primitive Flan humans were joined here a millennium ago by Suloise and Oeridian humans. At the center of this valley is the Kingdom of Keoland, the first major nation established here. East of Keoland are three demi-human states; the Duchy of Ulek (populated by elves and humans), the County of Ulek (humans, halflings, and gnomes), and the Principality of Ulek (dwarves and humans). These are currently battling orcs and goblins from the Pomarj.
To the north are the Gran March and Bissel, once part of Keoland's northern border. Gran March has a strong force of knights supported by a militant philosophy. In recent years, Bissel was invaded by Ket, but has remained free. One unusual spot here is the Valley of the Mage (or Vale of the Mage) in the Barrier Peaks, controlled by a secretive, paranoid wizard. Gnomes and unusually tall elves live here, supporting the wizard and defending the valley against all visitors.
In the east are Geoff and Sterich, once vassal states of Keoland. South of Keoland is the Yeomanry, a democracy with longstanding military traditions. Almost everyone knows how to fight, which has enabled it to ward off invasions of giants and humanoids. Farther south is the Hold of the Sea Princes, ruled by slave owners and former pirates.
In this region, Suloise background is dominant among humans, with strong Oeridian influence. Flan blood is strong in certain areas (Geoff, Sterich and the County of Ulek) and strong Baklunish influence appears in Bissel and the Valley of the Mage.