Both the Jrusteli and the Empire of the Wyrm’s Friends sought to maintain a loyal power base in the Shadowlands. It is, after all, the crossroads of the continent, and though every power lusted for it and occasionally made a military or magical bid for it, none wished to close or ruin it. Thus the Shadowlands filled political, religious, and mythical needs and remained intact.
During the disintegration of the great experimental empires, the Shadowlands grew stronger as the Only Old One played on their weaknesses and needs. The Only Old One turned to destroy those foes of his gods that lived nearest to him. These were the cities of Jadnor (on the border with Slontos) and Lylket (at the mouth of the Creek-Stream River near Karse), and the Clanking City, source of so many legends.
The Right Arm Islands were an important naval base for the Jrusteli. Iron Fort guarded the Troll Straits and helped protect the approach to the Clanking City. Caladraland was an ally of the Jrusteli, who were eternally thankful that the God Learners returned Caladra’s Twin.
Esrolia, a loyal ally of the Only Old One, was also a tributary of the Empire of the Wyrms Friends but also an open city to the God Learner scholars that came to Nochet to beseech the Knowing God for secrets and wisdom. Much wealth was gained and the Sages of Lhankor Mhy were held in the highest esteem and respect.
