Mundane Geography

Located at the confluence of the River Severn and the Afon Efyrnwy (River Vyrnwy), the covenant of Nova Semitae is on the border of Wales and England.  Specifically, it is geographically located on the eastern edge of Welsh Principality of Powys Wenwynwyn and the western edge of the County of Shrewsbury (which rules most of Shropshire). 

The covenant lies at the center of three towns, each approximately twelve miles away. The English towns of Shrewsbury and Oswald's Cross lie twelve miles to the east and north, respectively, while the Welsh city of Poole (home to Powys Castle) lies twelve miles southwest along the River Severn.

Shropshire

The shire of Shropshire is ruled from Shrewsbury Castle.  Though the Earldom of Shrewsbury was dissolved in 1102, the remnants of the de Belleme family have been unofficially serving in this capacity since 1215, when they drove Llywelyn ap Iorwerth's army out of Shrewsbury Castle.

Powys Wenwynwyn

A weakened principality suffering from in-fighting with other Welsh princes. In particular, the previous ruler, Prince Gwenwynwyn ab Owain fought Llewelyn Fawr (the Great) in several battles, being driven out of Wales into English exile. He died in England in 1216 with his crown going to his son, Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn. Gruffydd is a weak prince, with Llewelyn Fawr (the Great) sitting at Poole, his father's last capital. He has officially submitted himself to Llewelyn, but conspires with anyone and everyone to regain his father's lands. Historically, he rules the principality for 70 years.