Ekhoron (EHKH-oron): The region of Ekhoron (and much of Muscosao) dates back to antiquity. Despite multiple long military campaigns, it was never conquered by the Spiran Empire; it is said this was due to the severe weather, harsh winters, and terrible terrain (though that is debated by historians). Well after the fall of the Empire, however, it was conquered by trade and economics, when it became part of the Gnomali Republic. Culturally, though, the people of the area always considered themselves to be proud and independent, so it was hardly a surprise when they declared their historical capital, the crossroads city of Bilchan, as the ‘‘new eastern capital’’ of Gnomali, thus sparking a 19-year civil war. When the Republic dissolved, Ekhoron was once again its own.

Despite its post-Gelephian conflicts with Muscasao, and the occasional generational trade dispute with Hanarus, modern Ekhoron has remained relatively safe and unconquerable. These days, it is known more for its massive textile and lumber industries than for its harsh terrain. The country is also home to the [Birstan School](wiki:birstan-school), which has trained generations of the continent’s best historians and architects, and has been instrumental in sponsoring exploration within the Greater Ihlathian Academic Consortium.

Modern Ekhoron is now loosely divided in provinces, with geographical proximity being a greater determination of culture. These regions are usually agreed to be:
 
- [Ekhoron Coast](wiki:ekhoron-coast) 
- [Mid Country](wiki:mid-country)
- Eastern Border 
- [Western Border](wiki:western-border)