Citadel of Ararass
This massive stone fortress sits over the entrance to a famed and incredibly productive diamond mine. The fortress is located on a high and relatively barren plateau in the Spine. The fortress is supplied by its own natural springs and is said to have one or more secret entrances. It has double curtain walls studded by well-built towers filled with artillery weapons. In center of the citadel is a hexagonal palace with red tiled roof and a great keep at its center. The mine entrances are beneath this building. The citadel is the family holding of Baron Baylor Laska. Baylor is fantastically rich and further increases his wealth by making loans to other nobles.
The Baron insists on hostages in exchange for his loans. These hostages are kept politely but securely in the fortress until the loan is paid back. Gem merchants, all of them coming at the Baron’s personal bidding, are invited to come to auctions. The Baron has used his wealth to get several wives of high birth and great beauty. He has some eight legitimate children and at least as many bastard children.
The Baron’s Citadel is defended by a force of very well-paid mercenaries and members of his extended clan. This is supplemented by a force of golems that Baron Laska has had built for him by a powerful wizard. The lack of locally grown food is a major problem. As a result, the castle features large storerooms typically stocked with a year’s worth of provisions. The Baron spends heavily on luxury items. He also maintains a court dance troupe and musicians to entertain his household. Performers of renown are sometimes invited to perform at the Citadel and well-paid for their work.
Purpose / Function
To provide a secure home for the Baron and his household while protecting the primary sources of their wealth.
Architecture
It has double curtain walls made from local stone then white washed for a more impressive appearance. The walls are studded with well-built towers filled with artillery weapons. In center of the citadel is a hexagonal palace with red tiled roof and a great keep at its center.
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