Arafed view of a river surrounded by trees with a sunset

The Duchy of Charlevoix Article DRAFT PUBLIC Nestled along the pristine northern shores of Lake Michigan lies the remote and rustic Duchy of Charlevoix. Ruled by Duke Stafford from his island citadel Beaver Castle, Charlevoix harbors small fishing hamlets but remains largely untamed wilderness abundant with timber, fish, and game. Blanketed by old-growth forests of pine, maple, oak and iron-rich hemlock, Charlevoix’s greatest asset is its lumber. Remote logging camps fell immense trees and send rafts down the Jordan River to mills producing wood products sent across the lake. Beaver pelts are also trapped amid the abundant marshes and tributaries. Charlevoix’s harsh but beautiful landscape carved by ancient glaciers features lush meadows and farmsteads along the lakeshore, surrounded by heavily wooded uplands teeming with deer, rabbits, grouse and other game. Hearty folk sustain themselves through farming, fishing the crisp freshwater and some trade across Lake Michigan. Isolated by dense forests and the expansive lake, Charlevoix commoners retain fiercely independent ways. But they remain loyal to House Stafford, giving tribute of fish, pelts and choice game to Beaver Castle’s lavish seasonal feasts in return for autonomy over their remote duchy.