The High Kingdom of Kumbrith is a mighty realm that stands for Law and decency in the world. Beyond the core of the kingdom are a number of exclaves, dependent fiefs, allies and possessions that are known as The Reaches. The Starkpool Reach is one such fiefdom located on the northern coast of a long gulf. The Starkpool Reach is named for the lake and city of the same name located in the center of the region.

The northern edges of the Reach is ruled by vassals of the Empire of Chaos and the North-Western edge, known as the Land Unknown, has been surrounded by impenetrable mountains and a confounding mist, until mere months ago when the mists suddenly rose and disappeared.

Starkpool City itself is a large and wealthy city ruled by a wizard socirty known as the Guild of Mystic Knowledge. It has a mutual defense treaty with the Kingdom but runs its own affairs. A great part of the city's wealth comes from export of the magically charged water of the lake itself which is used as a component in making magic potions the world across, significantly reducing their costs.

The remainder of the Reach is divided into many fiefdoms, large and small, some of which are vassals to the High King, some of which are independent. Whichever lord is considered most powerful and reliable is appointed Warden of the Reach by the High King and is counted as the commander of any forces needed to fight against the Chaotic or barbarian armies to the north and west.