Tolbridg

The Link Between Continents

Tolbridg is a quaint hamlet nestled in southeastern Ofica, marking the northernmost territory of the Tatharian Empire. This village is tasked with the crucial responsibility of guarding the north end of a bridge that serves as a vital link between Ofica and Eoperax. The villagers, known as Bridgers, take this duty to heart, despite being far removed from the hustle and bustle of major cities.
In the aftermath of the Eruption of Mount Origin and the subsequent Reignition of the Stars of Power, life in Tolbridg has been far from peaceful. Monsters have grown increasingly violent and intelligent, posing a significant challenge to the villagers. A peculiar incident involved a young lad who was struck on the head by a piece of purplish glowing debris, presumably from the eruption. The boy survived, but the incident left him with a scar and some unusual traits.
The Bridgers are content with their quiet lives, but the recent changes have stirred unease. The trolls of the nearby Suile Forest, already a source of fear and superstition, have become smarter and more troublesome. Some have even learned rudimentary communication, expressing their own disquiet about the changes in the forest.
The liaison from the Tatharian Empire in Tolbridg is primarily concerned with the security of the bridge to Eoperax. The locals appreciate the trade opportunities brought by the Tatharian Empire, but they also understand the strategic importance of their location. To the north lies the enigmatic Suile Forest, and to the northwest stands the imposing Jolneau Rise, with the peak of Mount Origin visible over the rise.

Architecture

Tolbridg's architecture is rustic and practical, reflecting its geographical location and available resources. Buildings are primarily constructed from timber sourced from the nearby Suile Forest, providing durability and a natural aesthetic. Stone from the Jolneau Rise is also used, reinforcing structures and adding a rugged charm.
The village's adornments are simple and functional, often incorporating local materials like seashells and smoothed pebbles. These elements are embedded into walls or arranged into mosaics, adding individuality to each building.
Roofs are steep and made of wooden shingles, designed to withstand the area's moderate winter snowfall. They are typically painted in earthy tones to blend with the surrounding environment. Doors and window frames, however, may feature brighter colors, reflecting local flora and fauna.
Fences in Tolbridg are likely made of roughly hewn timber logs rather than white pickets, aligning with the village's rustic aesthetic. Overall, Tolbridg's architecture is a testament to its inhabitants' adaptation to their environment and harmonious living with nature.

Geography

Tolbridg is situated in a geographically diverse area that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic importance. The settlement is nestled between the expansive Suile Forest to the north and the majestic Jolneau Rise to the northwest. The forest, with its dense canopy and mysterious aura, provides a natural barrier and a source of timber and game. The Rise, a wide-based mountain, serves as a natural landmark and offers a stunning view of the peak of Mount Origin over its crest.
To the east of the settlement lies a wide bay, its waters sparkling under the sun, providing a natural harbor for ships. This bay is a bustling hub of activity, with fishing boats dotting the waters during the day and the twinkling lights of larger vessels anchored at night. The bay also provides a bounty of seafood, contributing to the local cuisine and economy.
On the west side of the Bridge, the landscape changes dramatically. Here, the River Eo narrows into a dangerous channel that separates the continents. The channel, with its swift currents and hidden rocks, poses a challenge to even the most experienced sailors. However, it also serves as a natural defense, deterring potential threats from the sea.
The Bridge to Eoperax, a marvel of engineering, spans the River Eo, connecting Tolbridg to the wider world. It is a symbol of the settlement's importance as a trade hub and a testament to the ingenuity of its people.
The recent eruption of Mount Origin has added a new dimension to the local geography. The ash and debris from the eruption have altered the landscape in subtle ways, affecting everything from the fertility of the soil to the course of local streams. This event, while disruptive, has also underscored the dynamic and ever-changing nature of Tolbridg's geography.

Climate

Tolbridg, being nestled in the southeastern region of Ofica, experiences a temperate climate. The weather is generally mild with distinct seasons, making it an ideal place for agriculture. The River Eo, flowing near the village, creates a humid environment, especially during the summer months.
In the winter, the village experiences moderate snowfall, which blankets the Jolneau Rise and the Suile Forest, creating a picturesque view from the village. The peak of Mount Origin, visible over the Rise, is often capped with snow, adding to the beauty of the landscape.
The spring and autumn seasons are particularly pleasant with moderate temperatures and a burst of colors from the vegetation in the surrounding areas. The Suile Forest, in particular, puts on a spectacular display of changing foliage, attracting visitors from the surrounding regions.
However, the climate has also been affected by the recent eruption of Mount Origin. The ash and dust thrown into the atmosphere have led to cooler temperatures and unusual weather patterns, including unseasonal storms and heavy rainfall. These changes have added an element of unpredictability to the otherwise stable climate of Tolbridg.

Natural Resources

Tolbridg, despite its modest size, is blessed with a variety of natural resources that sustain its inhabitants and contribute to its economic value. The village is situated near the banks of the River Eo, which provides fresh water for the villagers and irrigates the fertile lands surrounding the settlement. This allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops, including grains, vegetables, and a unique variety of berries known as Eo Berries, which are prized for their sweet taste and medicinal properties.
The nearby Suile Forest is a source of timber and firewood, and it is also home to a variety of game animals. Hunting is a common occupation among the villagers, and the pelts, meat, and other products derived from these animals are essential to the local economy. However, the recent changes in the behavior of the forest's creatures have made hunting a more dangerous endeavor.
The Jolneau Rise to the northwest is rich in minerals, including iron and copper. Small-scale mining operations have been established to extract these resources, providing raw materials for tools, weapons, and construction.
The River Eo is also a source of fish, and fishing is a common pastime and occupation among the villagers. The river's swift currents carry a variety of fish species, some of which are unique to this region.

Type

Hamlet

Population

128

Inhabitant Demonym

Bridgers

Location under

Ofica

Owning Organization

Tatharian Empire

Vehicles Present

• Grand Elevator