Stannisport
The Heart of Military Might
Large City, Seat of the Imperial Army
Settlement Summary
- Population: 150,000 (mostly humans and elves, with a significant number of half-elves and dwarves)
- Government: Monarchy (ruled by King Eadwin Haraeth, under imperial authority)
- Alignment: Lawful Neutral
- Languages: Common, Elven, Dwarven
- Notable Locations: The Imperial Barracks, The Blade Cathedral, The Haraeth Keep, The Foundry District, The Grand Parade Grounds
Notable Features
- The Imperial Barracks: The largest barracks in the empire, housing over 15,000 soldiers at any given time. This facility includes training fields, armories, and officer quarters.
- The Blade Cathedral: A grand temple dedicated to Simikiel, god of vengeance and martial might. Soldiers gather here to pray for strength and justice before battle.
- The Haraeth Keep: The royal residence of King Eadwin Haraeth and his family, the keep is also the administrative centre of Southreach and a symbol of the kingdom’s loyalty to the Emperor.
- The Foundry District: A bustling area dedicated to the production of weapons, armour, and other military supplies. Dwarven smiths and human craftsmen work tirelessly to outfit the empire’s soldiers.
- The Grand Parade Grounds: A massive open area used for military drills, parades, and ceremonies. It is a place of pride for the city and a frequent site of imperial celebrations.
Special Qualities
- Military Training Hub: Every soldier in the imperial army trains in Southreach, making Stannisport the foundation of the empire’s military strength.
- Forging the Empire’s Arsenal: The Foundry District produces a significant portion of the empire’s arms and armour, ensuring the army remains well-equipped.
- Martial Culture: The city’s population revolves around the military, with nearly every family contributing to the army in some capacity.
Defenses
- Imperial Garrison: Stannisport hosts over 20,000 soldiers at any given time, including recruits and seasoned veterans.
- City Walls: Thick, reinforced stone walls surround the city, with ballistae and watchtowers at regular intervals.
- Fortified Docks: The city’s docks are protected by coastal artillery and watchtowers, ensuring the safety of supply shipments.
Notable NPCs
- King Eadwin Haraeth: The ruler of Southreach, Eadwin is a seasoned elven warrior with centuries of battlefield experience. He is both a respected monarch and the commander of the imperial army.
- Queen Riyelle Haraeth: Eadwin’s wife, Riyelle, is a calm and strategic advisor who manages the city’s diplomacy and internal stability.
- Prince Kaiel Haraeth: A fiery and ambitious officer in the imperial army, Kaiel is known for his bold strategies and charisma.
- Duke Raelyn Haraeth: Kaiel’s younger brother, Raelyn is a methodical and disciplined commander who oversees the training of recruits.
- Forge-Master Thaldor Ironskin: A dwarven smith who oversees the Foundry District, Thaldor is famous for his near-mythical craftsmanship and no-nonsense demeanor.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Supply Chain Reliance: Stannisport depends on resources from Blackpeak for metals and Wildacre for food, creating vulnerabilities in times of war or political tension.
- Black Market Arms: Despite strict oversight, a black market for weapons occasionally arises, fueled by smuggling and corruption.
- Tensions Among Recruits: Soldiers from different kingdoms occasionally clash during training, creating challenges for instructors and officers.
- Imperial Expectations: As the heart of the empire’s military, Stannisport constantly faces pressure to maintain readiness and produce results.
The Blade Cathedral
"Sanctuary of Strength"
The Blade Cathedral is adorned with stained glass depicting the empire’s greatest battles. Inside, soldiers kneel before an altar shaped like a massive sword embedded in stone.
The King’s Council
"Military Minds of Southreach"
King Eadwin’s council includes his family, high-ranking officers, and skilled logisticians. Together, they manage the kingdom’s military infrastructure and advise the Emperor.
The Foundry Masters
"The Lifeblood of Stannisport"
The Foundry District produces weapons and armour so renowned that nobles from other kingdoms commission custom orders.
The Grand Parade
"A Spectacle of Power"
The Grand Parade Grounds host a massive military parade each year, showcasing the might of the imperial army. Thousands gather to witness the event, including diplomats and rulers from other kingdoms.
The Haraeth Legacy
"Generations of Commanders"
The Haraeth family has led Southreach since the empire’s founding. Their lineage is steeped in military tradition, and their loyalty to the Emperor is unshakable.
Rumour: Whispered rumors suggest a growing divide between King Eadwin’s two sons, threatening the unity of the royal family.