Redguard

Population: 34,000

Humans: 95%

Delverkin: 2% (primarily blacksmiths and stonemasons)

Hearthkin: 1.5%

Aelvari: 0.5%

Other races: 1%

Redguard is one of the least diverse major settlements in Aclea. Its population is deeply rooted in military service, with many families tracing generations of service to the Western Army. Foreign merchants are uncommon, and most non-humans living in the city provide specialized skills to the army.

Situated in the central hills east of the Redwood, Redguard serves as the military heart of the Western Kingdom. Every major road from the northern frontier, eastern border, southern capital and western provinces passes within a day's march of the city, making it the ideal location for coordinating the kingdom's armies. Unlike Redhaven, which governs the realm, Redguard exists to defend it. Its barracks, training grounds and armories make it the largest permanent military installation outside the capital.

The hills around modern Redguard had long been used as seasonal mustering grounds by the Lords of the United Lands, who gathered their levies there before marching to war. Their central location allowed every western lord to assemble within a matter of days. Following the coronation of Serathan Red I in 861 ADM, the newly unified kingdom required a permanent military headquarters rather than relying on scattered noble castles. Serathan ordered the construction of a fortified town atop the old mustering grounds, establishing what would become Redguard, named both for the crimson banners of House Red and its role as the guardian of the kingdom's heartland. Under Serathan Red II, the first permanent barracks and royal armories were completed, transforming the settlement into the headquarters of the Western Army. Serathan Red IV enlarged the western walls and established the Royal Military Academy, where noble sons and promising commoners trained as officers. Serathan Red VI built the Great Armory and standardized weapons production for the kingdom. King Enathan Red modernized the defensive works and ordered the construction of extensive cavalry grounds outside the city walls, allowing larger armies to assemble before campaigns. 

Redguard houses the headquarters of the Western Army. Approximately 4,500 professional soldiers. Around 150 Red Knights, serving primarily as military instructors and royal representatives. City Watch numbering roughly 700. During wartime, Redguard functions as the kingdom's principal mobilization center. Supply trains, reserve troops and noble levies converge here before marching under the royal banner, allowing armies of more than 25,000 soldiers to be assembled and equipped.

Economy

Unlike most Aclean cities, Redguard's prosperity is driven almost entirely by the military. Its economy is centered around: