William Karlstain, the Lord of Riverend, is a young but capable knight who has earned the nickname "Shield of Riverend" for his tireless efforts to protect his city from crime and outside threats. As the Lord of a bustling trade port, William understands the importance of keeping his people safe and ensuring that the city remains prosperous. Despite his youth, William is well-respected by his people, who admire his courage and determination. He is a skilled swordsman, having trained extensively in the art of combat by his father, and he is not afraid to lead his troops into battle when necessary. He is also a shrewd politician, and he is slowly getting to grips with the complex political landscape of Rivermond.
William's wife, Lady Anna Karlstain, is a well-educated and intelligent woman who acts as his closest advisor. Together, the couple is working to strengthen Riverend's economy and ensure that the city remains a hub of trade and commerce. They are both deeply committed to the welfare of their people, and they spend countless hours listening to their concerns and working to address their needs. Despite their popularity, William and Anna have their share of enemies, including criminals such as Harold the Maniac and powerful trade guilds that see Riverend as a intriguing to their own interests. The couple is constantly on guard against outside threats, and they have worked hard to build a network of allies both within and outside of Riverend to ensure that they are not caught off guard.
Despite the challenges they face, William and Anna are determined to continue building a better future for Riverend and its people. They are both young and ambitious, and they are eager to prove themselves as capable leaders who can steer the city to greater prosperity and glory. As they navigate the complex political landscape of Rivermond, they remain committed to their vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and united region.
In the year 913 a massive fire engulfed the Dominion fort and ship located within Riverend, which was a major blow to Riverend, but also William and Anna Karlstain. The cause of the fire was never determined, but rumors began to circulate about who might have been responsible. Some suggested that it was an accident, while others believed it to be an act of sabotage carried out by trade guilds or rebels. As news of the fire spread throughout Rivermond, tensions began to rise. The Lords of Redmond, who were already suspicious, saw the fire as an attack on the Dominion and raised their banners in preparation for war. They moved their soldiers into Riverend, causing panic among the city's residents.
William and Anna were caught off guard by the sudden escalation of hostilities, but they quickly rallied their troops and began to fortify the city's defenses. They also dispatched messengers to other friendly nobles in the region, seeking support and reinforcements. The incident served as a wake-up call to the young rulers of Riverend.