Cato

Trading hub of the North

The heavily fortified town of Cato proved to be a much more comfortable location. The mansion was impressive in its fortification and amenities. Lord Cato made provided me with only the best he had, and he lives quite well (as I'm sure you know). His son is quite attractive. A suitable match for a young lady we both know. But I'm sure you have your eyes open. In any case, the shops in town were much more impressive compared to the sad offerings found in Priamos. All in all, it made for a pleasant get away for a time. My husband adored the fishing, and I must say that I enjoyed horseback riding with Lady Cato a number of times. You really must join us next time.

- an excerpt from a Theosian Noblewoman to the Duchess Kadmos

Demographics

Like most settlements in the Duchy, the commoners tend to be Dorians . The nobles, knights and clergy tend to be Theosian in origin. Merchants seem to be from both ethnic groups.

Government

Ruled by the young Baron Perseus Cato III, who goes by Lord Cato, or Baron Cato (only his mother calls him Perseus). His Reeve, Ophelia Vadish (a rare Dorian in high office) runs day to day operations in the Barony. His Guard Captain is Gaius Kastor.
A town council meets monthly with Reeve Vadish to discuss town business.

Defences

A stone wall surrounds the town of Cato. It has three gates. One faces the Cato Bridge that spans the Hillfollow river. One opens onto the "campgrounds" area east side of the town. The campgrounds are surrounded by a wooden pallisade that also has a wide gate to allow caravan carts to travel through.
The mansion in the center of the town is surrounded by another stone wall complete with a barbican and gate.

Industry & Trade

The Duke's Road crosses from Mystemere through the city and up toward Priamos. Trade from Denyo's Anvil and the Wilderlands does occur, but most trade comes from dwarven settlement of Uvolterum that lies to the east along the Westreach river.

Assets

The following are key locations in Cato:

• The Tipsy Pixie Tavern - Owned and Operated by Roven Gilca
• The Last Radish Inn - Owned and Operated by the Stefoniou family (Matei and Uta)
• The Chapel of Three - High Priest Yan Cuza
• One Hot Forge (smithy) - Owned and operated by the Bristlebeard brothers.
• The Treasure Chest (Curios and Sundry) - Owned and operated by Marble in the Sky
• Orloff's Goods and Gear - Owned and operated by Old Man Orloff
• The Threaded Needle (Garments for work and play) - Owned and operated by the Papelis family

History

Built by Perseus Cato II shortly after the ascension of Duke Kadmos. Cato named the town after himself (as most Theosian barons do) and concentrated on turning the town into a hub of trade along the two rivers, as well as the dwarven caravans coming from Uvolterum.
A Dorian town did exist on this spot pre-cataclysm, but when Cato arrived, there was little left.

Tourism

There is a gate fee of 5 silver pieces to enter Cato by road or river.
The merchant district of the village is impressive and offers plenty of goods from Mystemere as well as dwarven forged items from Uvolterum.

Geography

Built on the fork of two rivers, the Hillfollow from the North and the Westreach from the East (flowing west). The town itself lies on moors and forested land.

Natural Resources

Prime river fishing can be found at Cato, as well as the good trade. Local fisherman live on the banks of the Hillfollow and refuse to take up residence with the "new town". But they trade with the locals.
Forresting and hunting also provide income to the town.

Alternative Name(s)

Riverhold

Type

Town

Characters in Location

• Alonso Madu