Old Oak

Old Oak is known around the Kingdom of Avalyra for two reasons; ale and mercenaries. West of Kyath Ennore lies a huge tree, much larger than any in Avalyra, rivalling even the ancient trees in The Ironwood. Built into this towering tree is a large tavern and inn, simply named The Old Oak, famed for its huge range of drinks, brought in by the current owner, Jakha Khasar. As well as its incredible range, many folk around the kingdom swear Old Oak serves the best ale that can be found, called Oakbrew Ale.

Demographics

Old Oak attracts people from across the kingdom, and is a very diverse place. While humans and elves make up a majority of the town, many dwarves, halflings, and members of every race imaginable make their home in and around the town. Many are brought by the inn, and its promise of solid work, leading to a good proportion of the town being made up of skilled mercenaries, though plenty have turned their talents to more peaceful work in the town itself.

Government

Old Oak is officially run by the captain of the guard, who acts akin to a mayor of larger towns. However, since The Old Oak tavern gained such a widespread reputation, the captain often takes advice from the owner, and typically includes them in any decisions affecting the town as a whole. The current captain, Carrine Fostern, is no exception, having a close relationship with The Old Oak.

Industry & Trade

Other than The Old Oak tavern, Old Oak is home to several thriving businesses, many owing their success to the trade of mercenaries. These include Fire and Brimstone, a smithy owned by Hemran Steelbrow, Cake My Day, a bakery owned by Lummuk, and Kobold or Go Home, a wilderness supplies store run by Garton Spanswick. Old Oak market is a hive of trade, with stalls of all kinds appearing and disappearing each day. Some notable constants, however, are Cold Comforts, a unique cold treat provider run by Meriel Qinlan, a genasi sorcerer, and Elise Lowren selling assortments of food.
As well as the stores in town, one notable attraction is the Oaken Archives, a library with a vast collection of tomes and scrolls, many documenting the history of Old Oak and its inhabitants. Finally, the Church of Meldona lies on the western edge of the town, overseen by Vanya Traberos, an elven cleric passionate about her goddess. Skilled with a blade, she can often be found training guardsmen.

Guilds and Factions

Besides its drinks, The Old Oak is famed for being a base for many mercenaries. While not an official company, the individuals working from Old Oak all hold a gold coin, printed with an oak tree on either side, known as an Oak Token, showing they have been thoroughly vetted by the veterans there. One wall of the tavern is dominated by dozens of bounty posters, with jobs across the kingdom coming in constantly. This promise of steady and lucrative work attracts mercenaries from all walks of life. Each year, on Lumir 1st, to mark the beginning of summer, Old Oak brings in a batch of potential recruits, vetting them through a series of simple jobs before handing an Oak Token to each that pass, welcoming them into the fold.
Some of the current regular veterans working out of The Old Oak include Azai Helley, Ranadin Brewgut, Zeal, Iavasa Nalline and Yesona Marusa.

Founding Date

211

Type

Town

Location under

Avalyra

Owning Organization

Kingdom of Avalyra