Ardstead
A small city North of Taleah. Ardstead relies heavily on trade with its agricultural neighbor to the South, as it does not contain much farming land (while no longer blighted, most of Ardstead's soil never quite recovered), and what good earth they have goes to their vinyards. Ardstead is situtated next to a large forest to the West (the Silverstand), however, so can provide lumber and tree fruits in addition to fine wines and silks. Strange stories from this forest and fear of incursion from the Dreadwood further North has lead to heavy fortifications and a paranoid leader. Attacks by roving wyverns from across the Gale Meadows have also contributed to this stance.
Demographics
Primarily Human, with a smaller population of Halflings and a few spatterings of other races.
Government
Ardstead is appointed leadership by the Monarch of Aurelis. The Thawe family has remained in favor of the King for several generations now, but is politically threatened by their rivals - the Sturm family.
Duke - Rys Thawe
Defences
A large City Watch of well-trained guards, in addition to a standby militia.
Industry & Trade
Ardstead's largest source of income is the export of fine wines and silks.
Infrastructure
Ardstead is surrounded by a formidable wall, with towers keeping an eye on the Silverstand, Dreadwood and Wyvern Peaks. The Duke lives in a lavish manor in the center of the city. Hamlets tending to the vinyards and lumber trade surround the walls.
Geography
Located on a hill, with forest to the West and meadows to the East.
Natural Resources
Grapes, lumber and silks
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