Every GM tweaks the base rules to suit their own style, and that of their players; this is the legendary DongMaster's second edition of his house rules.
300 years ago the mine complex of Zhakom was taken by a swarm of gargun. Now the old Khuzan roads or the region have become little more than trails through the wilderness.
The Keep on the Borderlands is set in Dyriamarch, a region of Melderyn claimed, but not effectively controlled by that kingdom. There is also a letter meant to be handed to the players before the adventure.