Caer Witrin
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Caer Witrin

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City
Neustria in Western Kindoms

Caer Witrin

Caer Witrin is a fortified town in Neustria, ruled by the stern Duke Theodrid DeWitrin. With a population of approximately 1,000 residents, it is known for producing arms and armor, horses, and goose feathers. The town's formidable defenses include a force of 300 militia, 250 men-at-arms, 100 sergeants-at-arms, 100 artillerists, 28 Hessian irregulars, 20 knights, 12 musketeers, 10 mages, 5 clerics, and a Knight Captain to coordinate them.

Features

Caer Witrin is home to the DeWitrin family, and its massive fortress protects the northern Neustrian borders from Ost invaders. The current Duke, Theodrid DeWitrin, is a harsh man in his middle years. His wife, Camille, known as The Duchess, is one of the finest Neustrian Musketeers and significantly younger than her husband. The Duchess's uncle, Baron De Belleme, resides in his tower within Caer Witrin.

Despite high taxes, the standard of living in Caer Witrin is good. During the Revolution, many nobles who opposed the Blue Blood Nobles sought sanctuary here. Caer Witrin has withstood numerous sieges from the Ost but has never fallen. It boasts one of the best-trained armies in Neustria and has enough supplies and resources to last at least a year.

The town is known for its prestigious Society clubhouse and a considerable number of mages who participate in its protection. Crime is punished harshly, making criminals secretive and few in number. The Black Guild and the Weavers Guild both have guild houses in the town.

The People

The Duke maintains a platoon of Hessians from eastern Neustria, who are the city's elite soldiers and have built a formidable reputation over the last decade. Caer Witrin's society is built on strict discipline and military prowess. The townspeople, while living under high taxes, benefit from the security and order maintained by Duke Theodrid's rule.

The presence of the Hessian platoon adds an element of intrigue and fear. These elite soldiers are known for their fierce loyalty and exceptional combat skills. Over the past decade, they have become an integral part of the town's defense, earning respect and fear from both the residents and potential invaders.

The Economy

Caer Witrin's economy thrives on its production of arms and armor, which are sought after throughout Neustria. The town's blacksmiths and armorers are renowned for their craftsmanship. The horse breeding industry also flourishes, with the DeWitrin stables producing some of the finest warhorses in the land. Goose feathers, another major produce, are used for a variety of purposes, from writing quills to luxurious bedding.

Architecture and Culture

Architecturally, the town is a blend of utilitarian military structures and more refined noble residences. The fortress itself is an imposing structure with thick walls and towering battlements. Within the town, grand halls and manor houses of the nobles contrast with the more modest homes of the common folk. The town also has an air of intellectualism, thanks to the presence of mages and their studies.

Society and Order

The Society's clubhouse in Caer Witrin is a testament to the town's importance. This prestigious establishment is a gathering place for the town's elite, where strategies and policies are discussed. The rule of law is strict, with severe punishments for crimes, resulting in a low crime rate and a sense of order.


Districts

The Citadel, an imposing fortification built atop a granite hill, offers a commanding view of the surrounding coast, river, and plains. For over 350 years, its walls have stood as the ancestral home of the DeWitrin family, bearing witness to countless historical events. While the Citadel's design prioritizes function over form, the interior rooms showcase a blend of practicality and elegance. Where possible, the walls are adorned with rich wood paneling, and the floors are covered with luxurious Dao and Levant woven rugs, adding warmth and sophistication to the fortress's austere exterior.

One of the Citadel's most renowned features is its courtyard garden, reputed to be the finest outside of the capitals. This garden boasts a stunning array of blooms from exotic locations, including the mystical land of Tirnanog. The vibrant colors and fragrant scents create an oasis of tranquility amidst the fortress's formidable defenses.

The Citadel is not just a symbol of power but also a sanctuary. It has been designed with enough space to temporarily house the city's citizens in relative comfort during prolonged sieges. This provision underscores the DeWitrin family's commitment to protecting their people, ensuring that everyone has a safe haven in times of conflict. The fortress's sturdy construction and ample supplies allow it to withstand lengthy assaults, providing both a physical and emotional refuge for those within its walls.

The Citadel's blend of practicality, luxury, and strategic importance makes it a cornerstone of the region's defense. Its enduring presence is a testament to the resilience and strength of the DeWitrin family and the people they protect. This monumental structure not only dominates the landscape but also the hearts of those who call Caer Witrin their home.


The Forge, Deep within the heart of Caer Witrin lies The Forge, a small but industrious Duer Hold dedicated to producing the arms and armor that equip the city’s formidable army. This enclave is home to a close-knit community of Mountain and Hill Duer, whose skilled craftsmanship and unwavering dedication ensure that the soldiers of Caer Witrin are always well-armed and protected.

The Duer of The Forge are renowned for their expertise in metallurgy and smithing, passing down their techniques and secrets through generations. The sound of hammers striking anvils and the glow of molten metal are constants in this subterranean world, where work never ceases, and the forge fires burn day and night.

The Swage Inn

At the heart of this community is The Swage, a fine Duer inn that has gained fame far beyond the borders of the hold. The Swage is immensely popular with "topsiders"—residents and visitors from above ground—who descend into The Forge to sample its strong stout and potent spirits. The inn offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with its stout wooden beams, stone walls, and the ever-present scent of a hearty meal wafting from the kitchen.

Drinks:

  • Duer Stout: A rich, dark beer with a robust flavor and a hint of coffee.
  • Mountain Mead: A sweet, honeyed beverage infused with herbs from the hills.
  • Forge Fire Whiskey: A strong, fiery spirit that warms the soul and lifts the spirits.

Meals:

  • Hearty Beef Stew: A thick, savory stew filled with tender beef, root vegetables, and a blend of Duer spices.
  • Baked Trout: Freshly caught trout from the underground river, baked to perfection with a touch of lemon and herbs.
  • Stone-Baked Bread: Warm, crusty bread baked in the traditional Duer style, perfect for soaking up the stew or enjoying with a slice of sharp cheese.

The Swage is not just a place for food and drink; it’s a vital social hub where tales are told, news is exchanged, and the bonds of community are strengthened. The inn’s popularity with topsiders adds a unique dynamic, bringing together people from different walks of life in a spirit of camaraderie and shared enjoyment.

The Forge and its vibrant community, centered around The Swage, embody the resilience and resourcefulness of the Duer, contributing significantly to the strength and spirit of Caer Witrin.


Warm Side is the most coveted residential district within the Citadel, located on the southern side of the city where the climate is noticeably milder. This area is known for its luxurious homes and well-maintained gardens, offering an idyllic escape from the bustling city life. The district is dotted with elegant townhouses and spacious villas, each boasting stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the serene river that flows nearby.

The streets of Warm Side are lined with fragrant flowers and stately trees, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment for its residents. The district's charm is further enhanced by its proximity to the southern gate, allowing easy access to the countryside for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. The residents of Warm Side enjoy a higher standard of living, with access to exclusive amenities such as private parks, upscale boutiques, and gourmet restaurants.


Grain Gate and the Market District form a strategically crucial area in Caer Witrin, designed with defense and entrapment in mind. This district is entirely enclosed by walls, with the only entry and exit being the Grain Gate itself. To bolster its defenses, elevator cranes are used to hoist goods and livestock into the district, while narrow wooden stairs provide access but are engineered to be easily destroyed, preventing invaders from gaining ground. In a defensive maneuver, the Grain Gate can be sealed, allowing a portion of the river to be diverted and flood the district, a tactic that has previously confounded Ost invaders.

Inns

The Sty: Located in the beast market, this establishment is popular among merchants and travelers for its good value and comfort.

  • Drinks: Spiced Ale, Local Mead, Mulled Wine
  • Meals: Herb-Crusted Roast Pork, Stewed Vegetables, Freshly Baked Bread

The Merchant's Haven: A cozy inn favored by traders.

  • Drinks: Dark Stout, Apple Cider, Ginger Beer
  • Meals: Grilled Trout, Lamb Stew, Cheese Platter

Shops and Services

  • The Crane’s Lift: Specializes in goods handling and logistics, offering services for lifting and transporting heavy items.
  • The Grainery: A shop providing various grains, seeds, and farming supplies.
  • Leather and Lace: Sells high-quality leather goods and textiles.
  • River’s Edge Smithy: Offers blacksmithing services, creating weapons, tools, and custom orders.

Mystery

  • The Disappearing Merchant: A local legend in the Market District tells of a merchant who vanished mysteriously one market day. Witnesses claimed to have seen him entering The Sty, but he never emerged. Despite extensive searches and inquiries, no trace of him was ever found. Some believe he stumbled upon a hidden passage or secret within the district, while others whisper of more sinister possibilities. The mystery of the disappearing merchant remains unsolved, adding an eerie layer to the bustling market atmosphere.

Grain Gate and the Market District are not only the economic heart of Caer Witrin but also a testament to its defensive ingenuity and the resilience of its people. The combination of commerce, strategic defense, and lingering mystery makes this district a fascinating and vital part of the city.


The Vaults, the poorest district of Caer Witrin, is a labyrinthine maze where casual laborers, ne’er-do-wells, and wasters reside. The district is aptly named for the vaulted ceilings that loom high above, providing protection from the elements. These grand arches support the weight of the city above, creating a shadowy, cavernous space below. Wooden shacks and makeshift dwellings crowd the gaps between the huge pillars, forming a ramshackle community within the shelter of the arches.

Inns

The Rat’s Nest: This seedy dive is hidden deep within The Vaults. Known for its murky atmosphere and dubious patrons, it is a popular haunt for the city's few criminals and small underworld.

Food and Drinks

Drinks:

  • Moonshine: A strong, homemade spirit that’s both cheap and potent.
  • Barrel-Aged Ale: A dark, thick ale brewed locally in small batches.
  • Herb Infusion: A strong herbal tea rumored to have medicinal properties.

Meals:

  • Stew of the Day: A hearty, if somewhat mysterious, stew made from whatever ingredients are available.
  • Rat Skewer: A questionable delicacy, grilled over an open flame.
  • Cabbage and Potato Mash: A simple, filling dish made with locally grown vegetables.

Shops

  • Curio Corner: A tiny shop selling an assortment of trinkets and curiosities scavenged from around the city.
  • The Tinker's Nook: A small workshop where broken items are repaired or repurposed.
  • Maddox's Herb Emporium: Specializes in herbs and potions, some of which are of dubious legality and origin.

Mystery

  • The Phantom Pickpocket: For years, residents of The Vaults have whispered about a mysterious pickpocket who seemingly vanishes into thin air after stealing valuables. Despite numerous attempts to catch this elusive thief, no one has ever seen their face or found a trace of their identity. This phantom has become a local legend, with stories ranging from it being a ghost of a former resident to a master thief using arcane magic to disappear at will.

Life in The Vaults is harsh, and the air is thick with a sense of despair and determination. Despite the poverty and crime, there is a strong sense of community among the residents who help each other survive in the shadows of Caer Witrin. The district's rough exterior hides stories of resilience, cunning, and survival, making it a fascinating yet perilous place in the city.