Tiberius Trail

City History, Trade, and Description

• Tibirius Trail was established during the early days of the Iron Snake Rail line construction, initially as a logistical camp for workers and engineers. Its strategic location quickly turned it into a bustling hub, attracting settlers from both the Herlend regions and the Imperial Expeditionary Force territories. Over time, as the city grew, it became a vital point for diplomatic negotiations and espionage between the two great powers. Local leaders, adept at navigating the intricate political dynamics, established a semi-autonomous government that capitalized on its position to foster growth and prosperity.
• Tibirius Trail thrives on the trade of mineral resources, including iron, coal, and rare earth metals, which are abundant in the eastern reaches of Wildreach. These resources are essential for the industrial activities in Herlend and military advancements for the Imperial Expeditionary Force. Additionally, the city has developed a robust market for espionage-related technologies and services, catering to spies and diplomats. The local markets are also renowned for exotic goods brought by Yuan-ti traders from underground networks, adding a mysterious allure to the city's bustling trade scene.
• Tibirius Trail is a city of contrasts, where the steam-powered technology of Herlend meets the disciplined, militant culture of the Imperial Expeditionary Force. The architecture reflects this, with Victorian-inspired buildings adorned with steampunk aesthetics near the northern gates, and more austere, classical structures towards the south. The central district is dominated by the grand Tibirius Station, a marvel of engineering, acting as the heart from which all rail lines and major roads emanate. The city is enveloped in a constant buzz of activity, with traders, diplomats, and spies mingling in the shadows of its vibrant markets and quiet back alleys.

Important NPC's

Governor Alonza

• Physical Description: Governor Alonza is a middle-aged human woman with a stern demeanor, sharp gray eyes, and meticulously styled black hair streaked with silver. She often dresses in tailored suits embellished with subtle technological accessories, reflecting her affinity for Herlend technology.
• Personality: Alonza is a shrewd and calculating leader, known for her diplomatic tact and unshakeable calm in the face of crisis. She is highly intellectual and prefers to use her wits and words over brute force.
• Motivation: Her primary goal is to maintain Tibirius Trail’s autonomy and prosperity amidst the growing pressures from Herlend and the Imperial Expeditionary Force. She aims to ensure that her city thrives as a power broker and central hub in the region, securing a legacy of peace and prosperity.

Marshal Kollgaard

• Physical Description: Marshal Kollgaard is a towering dwarf with a broad, muscular build, a deeply scarred face, and a fiery red beard. His attire typically consists of a heavy leather coat adorned with badges of his office and various tools of his trade.
• Personality: Kollgaard is gruff and direct, with a no-nonsense attitude towards law enforcement. He has a strong sense of justice and a deep loyalty to Tibirius Trail, often putting the safety of its citizens above political considerations.
• Motivation: he is determined to keep the peace in Tibirius Trail and stamp out crime, particularly the influence of criminal organizations like the Broken Crow Gang. He is also motivated by a personal vendetta against the gang, which has caused harm to people close to him.

Vellam

• Physical Description: Vellam is a Heregon of average height and a lithe build, giving him an unassuming presence that belies his true nature. He has sharp, calculating green eyes and meticulously groomed dark hair. His attire is always impeccable, favoring tailored suits that blend the luxurious with the practical, often adorned with subtle but expensive jewelry. His charming smile is his most disarming weapon, often used to put others at ease or manipulate situations to his advantage.
• Personality: Vellam is charismatic and persuasive, possessing a silver tongue that can sway friend and foe alike. He is adept at reading people and situations, making him an excellent strategist and negotiator. Despite his outward charm, Vellam is fiercely ambitious and ruthlessly pragmatic, willing to do whatever it takes to protect his interests and those of the Broken Crow Gang. He values loyalty and competence, rewarding those who serve him well while dealing harshly with betrayal or incompetence.
• Motivation: As the leader of the local chapter of the Broken Crow Gang, Vellam's primary motivation is to expand the gang’s influence within Tibirius Trail and beyond. He aims to control the city’s underground and to have a hand in its legitimate enterprises, ensuring that the gang profits from both the shadows and the light. Internally, he seeks to solidify his position within the gang, staving off any challenges to his leadership. Ultimately, Vellam desires power and respect, viewing them as the means to achieve security and prosperity for himself and his cohorts.

Jarek

• Physical Description: Jarek is a burly human with a weathered complexion and piercing blue eyes that suggest a life spent outdoors. He stands over six feet tall, with a muscular build that attests to years of physical combat training. His hair is short, salt-and-pepper, and he typically sports a rugged beard. His attire is a functional mix of leather and chainmail, with a longshot slung ove rhis shoulder, always ready for potential conflict.
• Personality: Jarek is a pragmatic leader, known for his stern yet fair approach. He speaks in a straightforward manner and values loyalty and courage above all else. His leadership style is paternal, often mentoring younger mercenaries and taking a keen interest in their development.
• Motivation: Jarek seeks to maintain the reputation and effectiveness of Wyate's Riders as one of the premier mercenary guilds in the region. His motivations are twofold: ensuring the survival and prosperity of his guild members, and upholding their honor and ethical code in a world where mercenaries are often seen as mere tools for hire. He is also driven by a personal code to protect Tibirius Trail from external threats, viewing the city as his home and its people as his extended family.

Orin Blackwell

• Physical Description: Orin Blackwell, owner and operator of the majority of factories in Smokestack Flatts, is a stout and well-dressed Dwarvish man in his early sixties, with a bald head, twinkling blue eyes, and an ever-present smile. His clothing is of the finest quality, often incorporating elaborate gold embroidery and precious gems.
• Personality: Orin is charming and affable, known for his philanthropic gestures and his ability to make everyone feel like the most important person in the room. Beneath his genial surface, however, he is a shrewd and calculating businessman.
• Motivation: Orin aims to maximize his profits and influence, both in Tibirius Trail and beyond. He is also deeply invested in technological advancements that can further his mining interests, including experimental drilling techniques and arcane-enhanced machinery.

Local Quests

• Cooperhead Bounty
• Sabotage at the Forgewroks @tiber: Quest Hook; a job posting for 1 time extra security for the Rail Yard. The credentials asked for, and pay, do not seem to line up with a simple security job.
• The Midnight Train: A crucial shipment of ore has gone missing from a train that arrived in the dead of night with no crew aboard. Callum Reed, desperate to maintain rail operations and avoid panic, hires the characters to trace the train’s route, uncover what happened to the crew, and retrieve the missing cargo, leading to a series of eerie discoveries along the track.
• The Veiled Market Heist: Lysa needs skilled individuals to retrieve a stolen artifact that is rumored to be sold at the Veiled Market. The catch? The artifact possesses dangerous magical properties and the characters must navigate through the underworld’s elite to recover it without unleashing its potentially catastrophic power.
• Gang Wars Brew: The Broken Crow Gang is on the brink of internal war as factions within vie for control. Vellam, seeking to stabilize his power, recruits the characters to mediate a peace—or ensure his faction remains on top. The quest involves delicate negotiations, a show of force, and perhaps, a betrayal or two.
• Rail Runner Express: A prototype locomotive has been stolen. Mira Hammerhand tasks the characters with a daring chase to recover the locomotive before it is destroyed or leaves the city, involving high-speed rail action and combat.
• Bounty: a reward has been posted for a a group of Yuanti Copperheads, who raided a caraven a few weeks ago. would have to track the raiding party through the desert to find thier underground encampment.
• Hunting: Riley red Connors recently hurt himself on a hunt. However he still has outstanding orders he needs done, specifically the pelts of 5 Mirage foxes for a Herldlend noble. Is willing to pay 40g for them, and offer some trade secrets in surviving the wilds.

Local Factions

• Dwarven Imperius Expeditionary Force- IEF
• Herdlend
• Broken Crows Gang
• Wyattes Riders

Districts

Capitol Spurs

Description: Capitol Spurs is the government district of Tibirius Trail, where the city’s administrative and political activities are concentrated. This district features stately buildings with a mix of Victorian and classical architecture, wide cobblestone streets, and beautifully maintained public spaces. The Governor’s Mansion, City Hall, and various embassies and consulates are located here.

• The Governor's Mansion- The Governor's Mansion is an impressive structure with elements of Victorian architecture and steampunk embellishments. It serves as both the official residence and the working office of Governor Alonza Gearhart. The mansion is known for its lush gardens and the ornate ballroom used for state functions.
• Tibirius City Hall- City Hall is the administrative heart of the city, where city council meetings and public hearings are held. The building is constructed of locally quarried stone and features a large clock tower that is a landmark of the district.
• The Ledger Main: The Ledger Main is a prestigious bookstore and stationery shop known for its rare collection of books, maps, and documents. Owned by Helena Criswell, a scholarly human woman in her late forties, known for her impeccable memory and love for historical texts. Her shop is a common meeting place for academics and adventurers seeking knowledge about the region.

The Junction

Description: The Junction is the heart of commerce and trade in Tibirius Trail. It is bustling with traders, merchants, and visitors from across the region. The district is known for its extensive marketplaces, trading posts, and auction houses. Exotic goods from distant lands are as common as local crafts and produce. The architecture here is a vibrant mix of practical wood structures and ornate buildings showcasing prosperous businesses.

• The Iron Snake Inn- The Iron Snake Inn is the premier lodging option for travelers and merchants in Iron Junction. It's a large, sturdy building with comfortable, well-furnished rooms designed to accommodate both the weary traveler and the demanding businessperson. Darvin "Mallet", a retired member of Wyatts Riders now turned innkeeper, is a burly man with a loud laugh and a welcoming demeanor. His experience from years on the road has taught him exactly what comforts a traveler needs.
• The Crossed Pistons Tavern- The Crossed Pistons is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Known for its robust ales and hearty meals, the tavern also frequently hosts live music and lively debates. Esme, a former Minitour mechanic with an unmatched love for good stories and better ale, runs the tavern with a firm but fair hand. Her establishment is decorated with various mechanical parts and tools, paying homage to her past.
• Gearwright's Gadgets- A shop specializing in various mechanical devices and intricate gadgets. Milton, a middle-aged Owlin with white feathers around his neck and beak, almost like a beard, and wire-rimmed glasses. His shop is cluttered with all manner of clocks, automata, and experimental devices. He is friendly and always eager to demonstrate his latest invention. Milton is an android aspect of Merric Gearspark: Necro-maton   
• Silver Quill Fine Tailoring- This boutique offers high-quality tailoring and fine clothing. Simeon, a slim, impeccably dressed elf, has a reputation for his exquisite taste and skill in creating garments that blend traditional styles with modern flair. His shop is elegantly decorated, mirroring the sophistication of his designs.
• Stonemason’s Bounty- This renowned gem and mineral store offers a variety of precious stones mined from the mountains surrounding Tibirius Trail. Its owner Thurgood, a Roma dwarf with an expert eye for quality, runs his family’s old shop with a deep respect for the earth and its treasures. The interior is a dazzling array of colors and sparkles, reflecting the wealth of the local mines.
• The Water Tower- a large water tower near the edge of the market, near the Rail yards, where water can be purchased. Owned by Orin Blackwell, it also operates as a large general store, and his personal office space in a central tower within the water holding section itself.

Theater Square

Description: Theater Square serves as the leisure and red-light district. It's where the nightlife of Tibirius Trail comes alive with saloons, gambling halls, theaters, and establishments of ill repute. The district has a slightly lawless feel, though it's generally kept in check by Marshal Kollgaard’s deputies. Brightly painted signs and loud music fill the streets, providing endless entertainment and vice.

• The Velvet Noose- The Velvet Noose is a high-end tavern known for its luxurious atmosphere, renowned shows, fabulous gambling scene and exclusive clientele. Behind its opulent facade, the tavern serves as a front for the operations of the Broken Crow Gang. Vellam, the charismatic and enigmatic owner, is a well-dressed Heregon with a silver tongue and connections in high places. He ensures that the tavern offers privacy and discretion, making it a favored meeting spot for clandestine deals and covert negotiations.
• The Exchange- The Exchange is a covert operation run by Lysa, a skilled fence who specializes in the acquisition and sale of stolen goods. Hidden in the back of an unassuming storefront in the Theater Square, this black market caters to those looking for rare and illicit items. Lysa, a master of stealth and secrets, ensures that her operations are discreet and secure, offering everything from magical artifacts, Fenlir catnip, to the latest in herdlendic firearms, or even felnir catnip. Her association with the Broken Crow Gang ensures a steady supply of high-quality contraband.
• Serpent’s Embrace Apothecary- Tucked away in a quieter corner of the district, Serpent’s Embrace offers a wide range of potions, poisons, and herbal remedies. Vivica, a female Copperhead herbalist with a secretive nature. Her knowledge of rare and dangerous ingredients makes her shop essential for those requiring more discreet services.

Smokestack Flats

Description: The industrial heart of the city, Smokestack Flats, is filled with factories, workshops, and refineries. The air is thick with the smell of coal and iron, and the sounds of machinery never cease. This district is crucial for the processing of minerals and the production of goods that fuel the economy of Tibirius Trail. Housing here is mostly for workers, characterized by modest row houses near the factories.

• Tibirius Steel & Iron Works- The largest steel and iron manufacturing plant in the city, Tibirius Steel & Iron Works dominates the local industry with its massive furnaces and forges. Duncan, a seasoned Minitaur with a background in engineering in Herlend, oversees the operations. His extensive knowledge of metallurgy and management skills ensures the high quality of the metals produced, which are essential for building and maintaining the infrastructure of Tibirius Trail and beyond.
• The Black Smoke Refinery- This refinery processes coal and other raw fuels essential for the running of the city’s various mechanical and industrial operations. Gregor, known colloquially as "Soot" for his always coal-dusted appearance, is a gruff but fair Roma Dwarf who ensures his plant meets the high demands of Tibirius Trail’s energy needs.
• Wildreach Chemical Solutions- This chemical plant specializes in producing industrial solvents and other chemical products used in various applications across the city. Dr. Mordecai Voss, a brilliant but eccentric chemist, is known for his innovative approaches to chemical production, often pushing the boundaries of safety and ethics in pursuit of scientific progress.

The Rail Yard

Description: The Rail Yard is an additional district focused on the operations of the Iron Snake Rail line. This district includes the main train station, maintenance yards, and logistic offices. It’s a hub of activity at all hours, vital for the transport of goods and people. The district’s landscape is dominated by sprawling tracks and large warehouses, and it plays a key role in the economic pulse of Tibirius Trail.

• The Forge Works- Located ajacent to Smokestack Flats, The Forgeworks is integral to the maintenance and expansion of the Iron Snake Rail line, producing rails and other related components. Tilda, a formidable human with a background in rail construction, manages a team of skilled workers who handle the heavy, hot work of rail forging. Her leadership is stern but inspiring, driving her team to meet the ever-growing rail demands.
• Tibirius Loading Bays: Specializing in the logistics of loading and unloading goods, the Tibirius Loading Bays handles everything from raw materials coming in from the Smokestack Flats to finished goods heading out to markets. Jonas, a former Iron Snake engineer with a sharp eye for efficiency, manages the operations. His experience ensures that goods are handled quickly and safely, minimizing delays and maximizing productivity.
• Railside Inn and Boarding: The Railside Inn provides accommodation primarily for rail workers and transient traders. Delia Swift, a jovial and motherly Halfling, runs the inn with a warmth that makes even the weariest traveler feel at home. Her inn is known for its hearty meals and comfortable beds, a welcome respite from the rigors of rail travel.
• The Signal Tower Café: A popular meeting spot for rail workers and passengers alike, the Signal Tower Café offers a variety of foods and beverages suited to quick meals on the go. Cedric Vane, a Heregon and former signalman, uses his knowledge of the rail industry to cater to the specific tastes and schedules of his patrons, making his café a bustling hub of activity at all hours.

Highstack Heights

Description: Highstack Heights is the upper-class district, home to the city's elite and wealthy families. This district features lavish homes, manicured lawns, and exclusive clubs. The architecture here includes large Victorian houses with elaborate gardens, reflecting the prosperity derived from successful business ventures and industrial ownership.

Dustfoot Dwellings

Description: The lower-class district, Dustfoot Dwellings, consists of densely packed housing, modest shops, and small communal spaces. The buildings are primarily wooden, showing signs of wear and patchwork repairs. This district is vibrant with community spirit, though it struggles with issues like poverty and crime. It’s where many workers and their families live, often those who work in the industrial and trading districts.

NPC's

• Deputy Annabelle Cole: A tough, no-nonsense woman in her mid-40s with a stern face and a well-worn duster coat. She has a reputation for being fair but firm.
• Gideon Faulkner: A middle-aged man with a scruffy beard and worn clothing. His stall at the junction, once vibrant with various trinkets and magical items, now looks sparse and neglected.
• Riley “Red” Connors: A well known hunter, he is  rugged man in his early 30s with a scruffy beard and a collection of scars from previous hunts. He wears a wide-brimmed hat and carries a customized Longshot.
• Lena Hawke: A stout woman in her 50s with sun-baked skin and a permanent squint from the desert sun. She wears practical, sturdy clothing and has a friendly demeanor. Lena runs a small farm on the outskirts of town, growing hardy crops and raising a few animals. Despite the harsh environment, she maintains a positive outlook and is well-respected for her hard work.
• Owen Bramble: A young man in his early 20s with a keen interest in mechanics. He wears goggles and has a few grease stains on his clothes. Owen works as an apprentice to the town’s mechanic, learning to repair and invent various devices. He's enthusiastic and always eager to help with technical problems. He’s secretly building a small, magical automaton that he hopes will become a valuable asset to the town.
• Jasper Caldwell: A grizzled, middle-aged man with a permanent tan and a rough exterior. He wears a hat that shields him from the sun and carries a heavy, worn satchel.