MM-35 Outcast Colony

Overview

The MM-35 Outcast Colony is one of the few permanent settlements on the long 35, nestled at about the halfway point. Made up almost exclusively of outcasts and exiles, the settlement stays afloat by catering to travelers and caravans who trek the MM-35, offering food, shelter, and most importantly, water to those who stop by, for a price of course. Although isolated, the standard of living in the colony is relatively decent, mostly owing to its Eden Agriculture System, a relatively unknown ancient piece of technology that blesses the surrounding land with fertile soil, groundwater, and flora.

Layout & Notable Places

The colony is situated on a strategic hill overlooking the long 35, a series of dirt roads and paths leading to the front gate. The settlement is surrounded by a rather well-constructed wooden wall, and although a few tents, houses, and a small market are located outside of the walls, much of the settlement is found within. Past the front gate is the main plaza, which is used both as an open market and as a public meeting area.
Surrounding the plaza are numerous businesses, including inns, general stores, and so on. Moving outwards from the center, businesses get replaced by houses, with some of the seediest establishments being found on the outskirts of the settlement.

Demographics & Economics

The colony is predominantly made up of outcasts, refugees, and exiles, although few are actual criminals. Many originally came from the Mandate of Heaven, seeking to achieve true freedom away from the relatively autocratic regime, whilst others come from distant lands thousands of miles away. Becoming a resident of the settlement has become increasingly hard as it has grown, and the only person who can grant residency is the popularly elected leader of the colony, who simply goes by the title 'Leader.' The settlement, unusually, produces an excess of food, which is often sold to travelers and traders. This is thanks to a strict food management system, with food allocated to each household on a weekly basis. The settlement's low population, combined with fertile land, also contributes to this surplus. Apart from trade, hospitality is the only other notable economic sector.

Security

The settlement is protected by a volunteer militia, who primarily combat bandits and raiders. The sturdy wooden wall deters most aggressors, and hunters ensure that the more dangerous animals stay away. Major crime is almost non-existent, although petty crimes, such as theft and pickpocketing, are not uncommon. Those found guilty of such crimes are tried by the residents, who collectively decide the criminals guilt and punishment.

Population: 200+
Leader: Lê Thanh Trung

Type

Slum