On the coasts from Vinland to Thorsland are a series of settlements. Mostly founded by dispossed Noblemen, younger sons of Kings, grandiose merchants, successful mercenaries and the like from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England, Scandinavia and even a few from France or Spain. Each settlement is independent, but many have alliances with others. Each one is different, some good, some bad. The leaders of each settlement have taken to calling themselves Princes, since they obviously aren't kings, but have no overlord.