Oldeshire

The approximate area of Oldeshire

Oldeshire is a storied and diverse geographical region, known as the oldest inhabited landmass within the Shire. This ancient land boasts a wide variety of biomes, rugged mountains, and intricate waterways, making it a place of both natural beauty and historical significance.

Geography

Borders

The western edge of Oldeshire is defined by the majestic Leopard Mountains, known for their glacially carved striations and mostly treeless appearance.

On the eastern edge of Oldeshire, you'll find the Athitican Mountain Range, characterized by sharp angular features and dense evergreen forests. These mountains provide a stark contrast to the more arid regions in the west. Beyond these mountains and the eastern sea lies the Vallachia region.

The northern border of Oldeshire is less well-defined but is widely accepted to align with southern edge of the Lost Valley area, part of the Lost Commonwealth.

The southern boundary of Oldeshire is defined by the Southern Ocean.

Pangea Valley

One of the most remarkable geographical features is the Pangea Valley, a valley in the middle west situated far below sea level, surrounded by an active volcano and a glacier peak. It's a place of geological wonder and breathtaking landscapes.

Floating Islands of Tyrozone

Oldeshire boasts the mysterious and captivating Tyrozone, a collection of floating islands suspended in the air by enigmatic forces, creating a surreal and magical sight for visitors.

Biomes

Oldeshire primarily comprises vast grasslands and lush forests, with small desert landscapes north of the Leopard Mountains, adding diversity to the region's ecosystems.

Infrastructure and Culture

Oldeshire is the birthplace of the Shire Transit Authority, making it the de facto central hub for all highways and rail lines that extend throughout the Shire. This efficient transit system connects the region to the rest of the world.

Oldeshire culture is distinct in its rejection of many trappings of modernity. Most settlements are car-free, embracing eco-friendly modes of transportation. While airports are conspicuously absent in the region, New Orange City houses OAX, a facility designed to accommodate airships, bridging the gap between the past and present.

The towns and villages of Oldeshire are replete with medieval castles, some still in use, while others deliberately maintain a rustic and medieval town square feel. Nevertheless, Oldeshire enjoys modern comforts, including television, internet, and all the efficient logistics systems the rest of the world enjoys.

Population and Major Cities

Oldeshire is the most populous region within the Shire, teeming with a vibrant and diverse populace. The Mainland/New Orange City/New Venice metropolitan statistical area anchors the center-east of the landmass and serves as the epicenter of culture, commerce, and innovation.

Other major cities within Oldeshire include Equos, Beauregard, Augusta Traianea, Athitica, Silex Civis, and Tyrozone, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the region.

The western side of Oldeshire remains relatively underdeveloped when compared to the bustling east. A large swath of land between Beauregard in the Leopard Mountains and Schaufensterpuppen on the west is shrouded in mystery. Many settlements within this area are ancient, abandoned, and forgotten, though attempts to develop the west side persist with limited results. Akorok, Elden, and Beauregard represent newer developments in this western territory.

Inhabitants

Oldeshire is primarily inhabited by humans, though the cosmopolitan cities such as Mainland and Orange City are home to a diverse array of sentient races. In the southwest, it is more common to encounter Sammichians, as this region lies closer to their homeland, fostering cultural exchanges and shared experiences.