The Last Stand

What began as a humble military encampment, strategically positioned between the The Untamed Forest and the domain of Aevalas, has grown into the second-largest city within the region. Under the steadfast leadership of Garek Ironheart, the city's original purpose of guarding Frostholme's borders has expanded into a thriving center of defense, community, and determination.

With its back against the sprawling expanse of the The Untamed Forest, The Last Stand has constructed formidable defensive fortifications that now encompass the city. Mighty stone walls, crafted from the region's natural resources, rise imposingly, adorned with watchtowers and defensive mechanisms that attest to the city's preparedness against any potential threats. Within these walls, the city's military prowess is evident, as soldiers, knights, archers, and strategists hone their skills through rigorous training, ready to safeguard the city's well-being.

Strategically located between the towering Dragon's Spine and the ominous Devil's Maw mountain ranges, The Last Stand holds a position of both tactical advantage and logistical complexity. Its significance as a choke point ensures the safety of Frostholme's borders, though it also presents challenges in maintaining supply lines and communication with the rest of the realm.

Demographics

Dwarf (Majority): Dwarves are the predominant population group in The Last Stand. Their hardy nature and craftsmanship have been instrumental in the city's development and defense. Many dwarves hail from Frostforge Hold, contributing their expertise to the armories and blacksmith shops.
Human : While not the majority, humans continue to make up a substantial portion of the city's population. Their adaptability and determination remain vital to the city's resilience.
Goliath (Minority): Goliaths are a minority population within The Last Stand. These towering and robust individuals are known for their physical prowess and adaptability to harsh environments. Some goliaths have been drawn to the city's constant battle, serving as formidable warriors and scouts.
Refugees and Other Races: While dwarves form the majority, the city has provided refuge to individuals and families from various races, including elves, half-elves, gnomes, halflings, and tieflings. These diverse residents contribute to the city's culture and vitality.

Defences

Massive Stone Walls: The city's most prominent feature is its towering stone walls. These walls, several feet thick, encircle the city's perimeter, providing a barrier against would-be invaders. The stone is locally quarried, known for its durability, and meticulously fitted together. The walls stand as an unyielding testament to the city's determination.
Guard Towers: Positioned at regular intervals along the walls, guard towers serve as watchtowers and defensive emplacements. Skilled archers and sharpshooters occupy these towers, keeping a constant watch over the surrounding terrain. They are equipped with ballistae and other siege weapons, ready to unleash a barrage of deadly projectiles against approaching threats.
Gatehouses: The city's main entrances are fortified with substantial gatehouses. These gatehouses are equipped with massive wooden gates reinforced with iron. They are designed to withstand battering rams, trebuchet attacks, and any other attempts at forced entry. The gates are operated by a complex system of winches and chains, allowing for swift closure in times of danger.
The Sentinel Bridge: Spanning a frozen river to the south of the city, the Sentinel Bridge is another key defensive structure. It can be raised or lowered to control access to the city, effectively cutting off any advance from the south. Guard towers positioned at each end provide additional protection.
The Dragon's Roost: This imposing watchtower, positioned within the city, serves both as a lookout point and a defensive stronghold. Watchmen stationed here have a clear line of sight over the southern border, allowing them to detect approaching threats well in advance. It is equipped with signaling mechanisms to alert the city to imminent danger.

Infrastructure

The city is enclosed by towering walls constructed from the region's natural resources, specifically quarried stone and sturdy timber. These walls, often adorned with intricate carvings and battle standards, are a symbol of the city's indomitable strength.
Guard towers, positioned at regular intervals along the walls, are equipped with massive ballistae, manned by skilled archers, and serve as an ever-watchful sentinel. These towers are not just defensive bastions but also provide panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, helping the city anticipate and repel any threats.

The cityscape is an amalgamation of sturdy stone buildings and timber-framed structures. Thick walls, fortified doors, and narrow windows characterize these constructions. Roofs are steeply angled to efficiently shed the weight of heavy snowfall.

History

The Battle of Frost's Edge 1411: One of the earliest major conflicts in The Last Stand's history, this battle saw the city's defenders repel a large Aevalasian force attempting to breach the city's defenses. The successful defense of Frost's Edge was a turning point in establishing the city's reputation as an impregnable fortress.
The Great Siege of Ember Plaza 1428-1429: In 1428 Ember Plaza became the focal point of a fierce conflict between The Last Stand and the Aevalasian territories. General Zarith Blackscale led the Aevalasian forces in an all-out assault on the plaza, resulting in a prolonged and brutal siege.
The Battle of Sentinel Bridge 1456: A crucial defensive battle fought on the Sentinel Bridge, this engagement saw The Last Stand's forces thwart a determined Aevalasian assault. The raised bridge and the city's formidable defenses proved too much for the enemy to overcome.

Points of interest

Ironheart Citadel: This towering fortress at the city's center serves as the residence and command center of Garek Ironheart, the city's leader. The citadel's interior houses the War Council Chambers, where The Six convene to discuss the city's defense and governance.
The Barracks District: Located toward the city's outskirts, this district is where the city's military forces are based. Extensive training grounds and combat arenas are found here, where soldiers, knights, and archers rigorously hone their skills. Barracks and armories dot the landscape, ensuring troops are always ready.
The Ember Plaza: Named after Ember Valdor, a prominent citizen known for her contributions to The Last Stand, this bustling marketplace is at the heart of the city. Stalls and shops line the plaza, offering everything from essential supplies to exquisite crafts. It's a hub of commerce and social activity.

Founding Date

1406

Founders

• Garek Ironheart

Population

29,000

Inhabitant Demonym

Standers

Location under

Frostholme

Owner/Ruler

Garek Ironheart

Owning Organization

Council of Elders

Characters in Location

• Garek Ironheart