Fort Lilltar

Fort Lilltar lies beyond the northern border of the Coastal Safe Zone. Unlike many other such towns in the northern Terra Hostili, it is not on any route towards the Northern Safe Zone and historically has seen no passing traffic except that on its way to even more remote towns. With the growth of the safe zones, there has been migration into the zones from Terra Hostili towns, and Lilltar is no exception. Unlike many other towns, which have dissolved after they fell below the strength needed to maintain defence, Fort Lilltar has a fierce pride in its independent identity and has remained defiant. It has benefitted from the dissolution of other towns, as the strongest and most determined of their citizens have made a new home at Lilltar.

Food Sources

Fort Lilltar is one of the last few towns still operating under the 'old style' of survival when surrounded by monster-infested territory. The bulk of the food comes from the autumn harvest of the surrounding fields, although this can be unreliable as the fields are vulnerable to destruction by monsters. The Lillvel river runs past the walls of the town and limited fishing supplements those autumn harvests. This, too, can be hazardous when Merrows are abroad. Lilltar does not send as many hunters out to acquire meat as many other towns traditionally have, and the presence of the water means it has limited space for underground galleries of deep mushrooms.

Defences

As one of the isolated towns outside any recognised safe zone the fort is in a constant state of alert in case of monster attack. Lilltar has the usual town defences, including stone walls thirty feet high and ten feet thick at the base. Unusually for an old-style town, it has two gatehouses. The larger connects to the road and affords access to the surrounding fields. The smaller is a river gate.

Industry & Trade

Fort Lilltar aspires to be self-sufficient, but has no ready source of iron ore and relies on imports for its forge. As the Coastal Safe Zone has extended its territory closer, regular trade in potions, weapons and fancy food has become easier. Consequently, the town is less self-sufficient than ever.

Type

Town