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.
Shrewsbury
The seat of Shropshire, holding a substantial town with a regular fair, Shrewsbury Castle, and Shrewsbury Abbey. Seated on the River Severn, it is some 12 miles by road, or 15 miles by downriver (east), from Nova Semitae.
Oswestry
A town some 12 miles to the north of Nova Semitae, serving as one of the many colonies set up to watch the Welsh border. Granted a fair on Wednesdays, it is the local hub of trade in the barony.
Caus Castle
Ruled by the Corbet family, the Barony of Caus lies approximately 7 miles south of Nova Semitae, making it one of the nearest neighbours for the covenant. A motte and bailey castle serves as a watch over the Welsh border with a town having been formed around it to service the castle.
Barons of Caus Castle:
- Robert Caus, 4th Lord of Corbet (1151-1222)
- Robert N.N. Caus, 5th Lord of Corbet (1181-)
- Thomas Caus, 6th Lord of Corbet (1201-1247)
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.
Poole (Welshpool)
Seated on the River Severn approximately 14 miles upriver (to the southwest) from Nova Semitae, Poole (or Welshpool as it is called today) serves as a major trade town in Powys Wenwynwyn and is the current seat of government for Llewelyn the Great.
Powys Fadog
Just a mere 7.5 miles NW from the Covenant west wall.