Circassia, a rugged region nestled in the Caucasus Mountains between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea, fiercely guards its independence. This land of dense forests and soaring peaks is home to a collection of independent Circassian clans, famed for their horsemanship and warrior skills. Society revolves around a strict honor code, with villages nestled in the valleys. Trade flourishes, particularly in slaves, honey, and wax, which are brought to bustling markets like Fazasi on the Black Sea coast. However, Circassia faces constant threats. Both the expanding Ottoman Empire and neighboring states like Georgia covet Circassian lands and people