Most Noble Republic of Sarkain

The Most Noble Republic or Sarkain is a republic on the north-western coasts of Caledon, [something something]

Ducal Period
In the 4th century and earlier, the lands now called Sarkain were under the control of a variety of dukes and petty kings, most independent. Though they shared a common culture and language, allegiances and borders were constantly in flux as the lords fought over land and influence. During this period, some of the lords bordering Atelle and Osterfel naturally allied themselves with the foreign powers, hoping to use them against their enemies. The two kingdoms' influence over the Sarkain dukes grew steadily until nearly all of the lords were nominally their vassals, though outside the normal feudal system of either kingdom.

Government
The government of the Republic is centres on the Major Council, a group of the heads of nearly two hundred and fifty noble families, all descended from the original dukes of the region, convene once every three months to debate matters of national policy. The bloodlines of the noble families are written down in the Golden Book, a genealogical record of the ducal families of the pre-annexation duchies. With few exceptions, no more families will have their names written in the book.

The Major Council also elects a member to the office of High Speaker, which acts as the diplomatic arm of the government, also representing the country at the Council of Kings. However, the office is also rife with opportunity for political missteps, with the many council members vying for much-coveted influence over the Speaker. The current High Speaker is Ames Hammond, a [???]