Kasmir

Kasmir is an arid and strategic region of the Seven Kingdoms, known for its wealth, security, and mercantilism.

The Kasmirans

The inhabitants of Kasmir are a lean people with shriveled features.

• Attire: They favor hooded cloaks and loose robes.
• Defense: Kasmirans typically carry concealed weapons, such as spring-knives and blade staves, at all times.
• Reputation: Renowned as misers, they are masters of security, constructing the continent's most elaborate locking mechanisms, traps, and vaults.

Economy and Trade

The Kasmirans are wealthy appraisers and moneylenders who finance many of the continent's ventures.

• Moneylending: They fund caravans and trade ventures, typically at high interest rates.
• Relations: While essential to trade, they are sometimes derisively called "Tu-Beshal" (blood-suckers) by Djaffir merchants.

The Capital: City of Kasmir

The capital is a heavily fortified city guarded by mercenary Thralls.

• Living Conditions: Residents live in windowless stone towers, kept barred and locked against thieves.
• Governance: The King of Kasmir is appointed by the wealthy money changers.
• Term of Office: The King holds his position only as long as he represents the money changers' interests; failure results in beheading. [^1]

The Dead River Bridge

A vital but narrow stone bridge spans the Dead River chasm at the eastern border.

• Traffic: It accommodates only one wagon or three riders abreast, often causing delays for large caravans.
• Tolls: A fee is collected by Thrall guards at a fortified complex.

Alternate Routes

Travelers seeking to avoid the toll may use the free bridges at Sindar or Danuvia.

[^1]: Despite the high pay, the extreme risk of the position makes it one few Kasmirans actually desire.