General Information and History

The Barony of Fallmere stands as one of the most strategically important territories within the fiefdom of Seacea, embodying the resilience and adaptability that have defined its people for over five centuries since the cataclysmic Fall of the Old Gods. Perched along rugged coastal cliffs overlooking the treacherous Barrens Ocean, this hardy realm has weathered the collapse of the ancient kingdom of Darshavon, the mutual destruction of the Old Gods in their final battle, and countless external threats from goblin invasions to political upheaval among the Four Fiefdoms.

From its origins as a borderland settlement during the unified kingdom to its current status as a fortified bastion under the iron rule of Lord Vuller Ashcroft, Fallmere has transformed from a collection of desperate survivors into a unified barony that serves as both shield and sword for Seacea's southern frontier. The barony encompasses diverse landscapes from the mist-shrouded Grey Hills rich with mineral wealth to the mysterious depths of the Dormont Forest, creating a realm where ancient mysteries coexist with the technological advancement that characterizes the current Age of Advancement.

Under the Ashcroft dynasty's leadership spanning over four centuries, Fallmere has evolved into a realm where traditional values of loyalty, duty, and martial excellence blend with pragmatic governance and strategic alliances. The barony's position along major trade routes, combined with its formidable defensive capabilities centered around the legendary fortress of Norwynne Keep, has made it an indispensable component of Seacea's political and military infrastructure during this era of unprecedented prosperity and innovation across the Four Fiefdoms.

Historical Periods

The Age of the Old Gods (Before Year 0)

During the Age of the Old Gods, the lands that would become Fallmere existed as part of the vast, unified kingdom of Darshavon, ruled by a high king whose magnificent court operated from Oslo, the Island of the King. This golden age of human civilization saw the region flourish under divine protection, with the Grey Hills serving as sacred grounds where ancient tribes established shrines to honor nature spirits, particularly the Wind Spirit believed to whisper wisdom through the perpetual mists.

The coastal areas that would become Norwynne Keep began as a modest borderland settlement, strategically positioned atop towering cliffs to serve as a watchpoint against threats from both the Alzion Mountains and the Barrens Ocean. The Dormont Forest flourished as a realm of natural magic, where the primordial forces that shaped the land ten millennia ago continued to influence the balance between civilization and wilderness. Religious life centered around magnificent temples dedicated to the Old Gods, with elaborate ceremonies and festivals marking the changing seasons.

However, as the Old Gods engaged in their Three Great Wars, the stability of Darshavon began to crumble. The high king found himself increasingly unable to maintain unity as divine conflicts raged across the heavens. The final catastrophic battle between the Old Gods resulted in their mutual destruction, an event so devastating that it killed the high king alongside the deities and left Oslo abandoned as a haunted isle that none dare approach. This cataclysm marked Year 0 and forever divided Uhl's history into the time before and after the gods' self-destruction.

The Age of Resilience (Year 0 to 100)

The Fall of the Old Gods marked the most traumatic period in Fallmere's history, as the brutal final battle between the deities triggered the complete collapse of the kingdom of Darshavon. With the high king dead and Oslo abandoned to become a haunted reminder of lost glory, the once-mighty realm splintered into four competing fiefdoms: Seacea, Vranna, Anolga, and Kallendor. The Barony of Fallmere emerged as a key territory within Seacea, defined by its people's extraordinary determination to survive in a world suddenly bereft of divine guidance.

During this tumultuous century, Norwynne Keep transformed from a simple border outpost into a formidable fortress under the emerging leadership of the Ashcroft family. The keep became a refuge for displaced populations fleeing the chaos, while simultaneously serving as a military stronghold against waves of goblin invasions and other creatures emboldened by the divine catastrophe. The Ashcrofts proved their worth as leaders by successfully defending their territory while establishing the foundational alliances and defensive strategies that would define the barony for centuries to come.

The magnificent temples that once celebrated the Old Gods were abandoned as their divine patrons perished, leaving behind crumbling structures that scavengers would eventually strip of valuable materials. The Grey Hills became a contested region as various factions sought to control the valuable mineral deposits and strategic high ground, gaining a reputation as a proving ground for warriors where many would-be heroes met their doom. Meanwhile, the Dormont Forest began its transformation from a place of natural wonder to one of darker reputation, as the fall of divine protection allowed more sinister forces to take root among its ancient trees.

The Age of Change (Year 101 to 450)

The Age of Change witnessed Fallmere's gradual evolution from a desperate collection of survivors into a cohesive and increasingly prosperous barony. This era encompassed the crucial Rise of the Four Fiefdoms (Year 100-300), during which the formal establishment of Seacea, Vranna, Anolga, and Kallendor as distinct political entities provided the framework for regional stability. The Ashcroft family consolidated their control over Fallmere during this period, establishing the political and military traditions that would define their dynasty.

Despite multiple attempts by ambitious rulers throughout the Four Fiefdoms to claim the title of high king and reunite the former glory of Darshavon, all such endeavors ended in failure. The memory of the unified kingdom remained powerful, but the political reality had shifted permanently toward decentralized power, with Oslo serving as a haunting reminder of both past greatness and the impossibility of return to the old ways.

Trade networks began to flourish during this era, connecting Fallmere to the other fiefdoms and bringing unprecedented prosperity to its citizens. The fishing village of Taloo developed into a vital port, while Kirschnick grew as a center of commerce and regional governance. The barony's strategic position along major trade routes, combined with the mineral wealth of the Grey Hills, provided the economic foundation for continued growth and military development.

The mysterious events in the Dormont Forest intensified during this period, leading to the abandonment of what was once a popular hunting lodge after a series of supernatural incidents drove away nobles and their parties around five hundred years after the Fall. The forest's reputation for harboring vengeful spirits and otherworldly dangers became firmly established, creating a lasting divide between the inhabited areas of the barony and the wild, untamed woodlands. Political tensions and border skirmishes among the Four Fiefdoms became common, requiring the Ashcrofts to develop sophisticated strategies for maintaining their territory's security while navigating the intricate web of inter-fiefdom politics.

The Age of Advancement (Year 451 to Present Day - 539)

The current age has seen Fallmere reach new heights of prosperity and cultural sophistication while maintaining its martial traditions and strategic importance within the context of unprecedented technological and cultural achievement across the Four Fiefdoms. Under Lord Vuller Ashcroft's pragmatic leadership, the barony has successfully balanced the demands of military preparedness with the pursuit of knowledge and innovation that characterizes this era of remarkable advancement.

The crown jewel of this age's achievements can be seen in neighboring Kallendor, where King Classus IV, known as the "Airship Monarch," has revolutionized transportation and trade through his groundbreaking airship technology. These innovations, developed at Alchester's Technology Academy where science and magic blur together, have transformed communication and commerce throughout the Four Fiefdoms, indirectly benefiting Fallmere through expanded trade networks and technological exchange.

Within Fallmere itself, this period has witnessed the establishment of Elsanar's wizard tower, Ellingrel, at Norwynne Keep, representing the barony's commitment to magical and scientific progress. The construction of Wildemoore Manor in the Grey Hills, where the enigmatic wizard Ansanom conducts his arcane research, demonstrates how the current age encourages scholarly pursuits and magical advancement, even in relatively isolated locations.

The barony has also seen increased exploration and utilization of the Underkeep, the abandoned dwarven city beneath Norwynne Keep. While the deeper levels remain sealed and shrouded in mystery following the dwarves' sudden departure after a catastrophic goblin-induced earthquake, the upper levels have been converted into storage and additional defensive positions, demonstrating the practical innovation that characterizes the Age of Advancement.

Despite these technological and cultural achievements, significant challenges remain. The goblin threat from underground strongholds continues to menace frontier settlements, ancient ruins harbor dangers that remind people of past catastrophes, and social inequality persists even within the great cities of the Four Fiefdoms. As Year 539 marks the present day, Fallmere continues to navigate these challenges while participating in the broader flowering of civilization that defines the current age.

Geography and Key Locations

Norwynne Keep

The heart of the Barony of Fallmere, Norwynne Keep stands as an imposing fortress carved into the coastal cliffs overlooking the Barrens Ocean. Originally established as a borderland settlement during the unified kingdom of Darshavon, the keep has evolved over five centuries into one of the most formidable defensive positions in all of Seacea. The legendary wall known as Regrok surrounds the keep, mythologized as invulnerable and serving as a symbol of the barony's enduring strength through the dark years following the Fall of the Old Gods.

Under Lord Vuller Ashcroft's rule, the keep houses not only military forces but also serves as a center of learning and innovation representative of the Age of Advancement. Elsanar's wizard tower Ellingrel represents the barony's commitment to advancing magical and technological knowledge, while the converted sections of the ancient Underkeep below provide additional storage and defensive capabilities that demonstrate practical adaptation of historical resources.

Kirschnick

Located north of Norwynne Keep, Kirschnick serves as the barony's primary commercial center and a vital hub for regional governance. This moderately sized city has grown prosperous through its position along major trade routes that have flourished during the Age of Advancement, facilitating commerce between the various settlements of Fallmere and connections to the broader networks linking the Four Fiefdoms. The city's markets and trading halls bustle with activity, making it essential to the barony's economic stability and growth in an era of unprecedented inter-fiefdom commerce.

Taloo

This charming coastal fishing village represents the maritime heritage of Fallmere, providing both sustenance and commerce through its connection to the treacherous Barrens Ocean. Despite the dangerous nature of the surrounding waters, Taloo's skilled fishermen have developed techniques for safely navigating the coastal regions, making the village an important source of food and trade goods. The community is known for its vibrant gatherings and traditional crafts that reflect the barony's cultural identity, maintaining customs that have survived since before the Fall of the Old Gods.

The Underkeep

Beneath Norwynne Keep lies the abandoned dwarven city known as the Underkeep, originally carved by the industrious Ironhold Clan as a magnificent subterranean metropolis. The dwarves created an advanced society with intricate passageways, grand halls, and access to rich mineral veins that made the city prosperous for generations. However, a catastrophic goblin-induced earthquake caused significant structural damage and triggered the mysterious disappearance of many dwarves, leading to the clan's sudden abandonment of their ancestral home.

While humans have cautiously explored and converted the upper levels for storage and defensive purposes during the Age of Advancement, the deeper sections remain sealed and unexplored, shrouded in tales of ghosts and curses. The Underkeep represents both the lost glory of dwarven craftsmanship and the ongoing mysteries that influence daily life in Fallmere, serving as a reminder that even the greatest works can be undone by catastrophic events.

Dormont Forest

The ancient Dormont Forest covers a significant portion of the barony's interior, representing both a valuable resource and a source of supernatural concern. Formed over ten millennia ago during a period of great magical upheaval, the forest has been home to the mysterious figure known as Ursool, the Woman of the Wood. Once a beloved protector who made a fateful pact with dark forces to save her community from an unknown threat, Ursool now dwells in cursed solitude, her true nature hidden behind magical disguises.

The forest provides timber and hunting grounds for the surrounding communities of Bromsgrove, Easthedge, and Woodfell, but most inhabitants avoid venturing deep into its shadowy depths, particularly after nightfall. The reputation for supernatural dangers that began during the Age of Change has only intensified, with the forest serving as a constant reminder of the forces beyond normal understanding that continue to influence the world despite the technological advances of the current age.

Ursool's House

Deep within the Dormont Forest stands the solitary dwelling of Ursool, the Woman of the Wood. Originally built as a sturdy hunting lodge by a wealthy nobleman during the more prosperous times before supernatural events made the forest dangerous, the structure served as a retreat for hunting expeditions until mysterious incidents drove away its noble visitors around five hundred years ago, during the early centuries following the Fall of the Old Gods.

The lodge remained abandoned for nearly a century before Ursool claimed it as her home, repairing and reinforcing the weathered structure. Built with thick wooden walls, a thatched roof, and a stone porch and chimney, the house represents both the past glory of noble hunting parties and the present reality of Ursool's self-imposed exile. The dwelling serves as a testament to the forest's complex history and the enduring presence of magical forces that persist despite the rational advances of the Age of Advancement.

Grey Hills

The mist-shrouded Grey Hills form a distinctive landscape within the barony, characterized by rocky terrain and an atmosphere of perpetual mystery. These ancient hills, formed by geological upheaval millennia ago, contain valuable mineral deposits that contribute significantly to Fallmere's prosperity during the current age of expanded trade and technological development. However, the region carries a dark reputation due to legendary battles fought among its peaks during the chaotic years following the Fall of the Old Gods and the persistent reports of ghostly apparitions of warriors who died in combat.

The hills gained particular notoriety during the Rise of the Four Fiefdoms period when various factions contested the region for its strategic value and resources. In recent years, the area has become home to Wildemoore Manor, where the wizard Ansanom conducts his arcane research in relative isolation, adding another layer of intrigue to an already mysterious landscape while representing the scholarly pursuits that characterize the Age of Advancement.

Wildemoore Manor

Constructed in the Grey Hills by the enigmatic wizard Ansanom beginning in Year 526, Wildemoore Manor stands as a testament to both magical achievement and the intellectual freedom that defines the Age of Advancement. Built as a refuge from the consequences of Ansanom's controversial magical experiments in Eldenreach, the manor features tall, pointed roofs, extensive stonework, and intricate magical wards designed to protect against both physical and supernatural intrusions.

The structure serves not only as Ansanom's residence and laboratory but also as a center of magical education, where he accepts apprentices from affluent families seeking advanced arcane instruction. The manor represents the complex relationship between magical advancement and ethical boundaries that characterizes scholarly pursuits in the current age, while its isolated location reflects the ongoing tension between innovation and the need for discretion when dealing with potentially dangerous magical research.

Economy and Resources

The Barony of Fallmere maintains a diversified economy that capitalizes on its strategic geographical position and natural resources while benefiting from the expanded trade networks and technological innovations that characterize the Age of Advancement. The mineral deposits within the Grey Hills provide valuable raw materials that support both local craftsmanship and trade with neighboring fiefdoms. These deposits, first identified and partially extracted by the ancient Khorasi engineers whose lost civilization lies beneath modern Alchester, continue to fuel economic growth and provide the materials necessary for the barony's renowned metalworking industries.

Maritime resources play a crucial role in the barony's economy, with Taloo serving as the center of a thriving fishing industry that provides both sustenance and trade goods. The village's skilled fishermen have developed techniques for safely navigating the treacherous Barrens Ocean, allowing them to access fishing grounds that others cannot reach. This maritime expertise has also facilitated trade connections with other coastal regions, expanding the barony's commercial networks as inter-fiefdom commerce has flourished during the current age.

Agriculture and forestry contribute significantly to the barony's self-sufficiency, with the communities surrounding the Dormont Forest engaging in sustainable logging and farming practices. The forest provides timber for construction and crafts, while the fertile lands around the settlements support the cultivation of crops necessary to feed the barony's population. The region's natural resources are supplemented by trade along the major routes that pass through Fallmere, bringing exotic goods and materials from distant lands as the Four Fiefdoms have become increasingly interconnected.

The presence of magical practitioners, including Elsanar at Norwynne Keep and Ansanom at Wildemoore Manor, has created a unique economic niche in magical services and education that reflects the broader technological and scholarly advancement of the current age. These services range from practical applications of magic for agriculture and construction to the training of apprentices from wealthy families, providing additional sources of revenue and prestige for the barony while contributing to the knowledge networks that characterize the Age of Advancement.

Culture and People

The people of Fallmere embody the resilience and adaptability that have allowed their realm to survive and prosper through over five centuries of upheaval since the Fall of the Old Gods. Shaped by their harsh coastal environment and the constant need for vigilance against external threats, the inhabitants have developed a culture that values practical skills, community solidarity, and unwavering loyalty to legitimate authority. The maritime heritage of communities like Taloo has instilled in the population a deep respect for the power of nature and the importance of careful preparation and skilled seamanship.

Military service and martial excellence are highly regarded throughout the barony, reflecting both necessity and the tradition established during the chaotic years following the divine catastrophe. The legacy of the Ashcroft family's military leadership has created a society where tactical thinking, physical courage, and disciplined service are considered essential virtues. This martial culture is balanced by a growing appreciation for learning and magical advancement that reflects the intellectual flowering of the Age of Advancement, as evidenced by the respect accorded to figures like Elsanar and the cautious tolerance extended to Ansanom's research.

The barony's cultural identity is deeply influenced by the mysterious and supernatural elements that permeate the region, creating a population that maintains traditional superstitions despite the rational advances of the current age. The legends surrounding Ursool, the crumbling remains of temples abandoned five hundred years ago after the Old Gods' destruction, and the ghostly reputation of the Grey Hills have created a worldview that balances practical concerns with healthy respect for forces beyond normal understanding.

Religious life has adapted significantly since the Fall of the Old Gods, with most inhabitants abandoning organized worship in favor of practical spirituality focused on self-improvement and the pursuit of knowledge. Festivals and traditions now celebrate both the barony's military heritage and its connection to the natural world, honoring successful harvests, commemorating military victories, and remembering the sacrifices made during the dark years of the Age of Resilience. These cultural events serve to reinforce community bonds and maintain the shared identity that has allowed Fallmere to remain unified despite the diverse challenges it faces.

Political Structure

The Barony of Fallmere operates under the absolute authority of Lord Vuller Ashcroft, whose family has ruled the region for over four centuries through a combination of military prowess, political acumen, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of their subjects. Lord Vuller's leadership style reflects his background as a professional soldier, emphasizing discipline, pragmatic decision-making, and the primacy of duty over personal considerations. His rule is characterized by efficiency and justice, though his stern demeanor and high expectations create an atmosphere of formality and respect rather than warmth.

The Ashcroft dynasty's legitimacy derives from their proven record of successful defense against external threats and their ability to provide stability and prosperity for their subjects during the tumultuous centuries since the Fall of the Old Gods. This practical foundation of authority has created a system where competence and results matter more than elaborate ceremony or inherited privilege, reflecting the pragmatic governance that has allowed the Four Fiefdoms to prosper during the Age of Advancement.

Regional governance is administered through a network of trusted officials and military commanders who oversee the various settlements and strategic locations throughout the barony. These administrators are chosen based on their demonstrated abilities and loyalty rather than hereditary claims, creating a meritocratic system that ensures effective governance while maintaining the centralized authority necessary for military readiness against ongoing goblin threats and potential inter-fiefdom conflicts.

The barony's relationship with the broader fiefdom of Seacea is characterized by loyal service and strategic cooperation. As a crucial component of Seacea's southern defenses, Fallmere receives support and recognition from higher authorities while maintaining significant autonomy in managing its internal affairs. This balance allows Lord Vuller to pursue his vision for the barony's development while fulfilling his obligations to the larger political structure that has replaced the unified kingdom of Darshavon.

Current Challenges and Tensions

The Barony of Fallmere faces a complex array of challenges that test both its military capabilities and political stability as the Age of Advancement continues to unfold. The ongoing threat of goblin incursions from the Alzion Mountains requires constant vigilance and significant military resources, forcing the barony to maintain expensive defensive preparations that strain the economy while limiting opportunities for expansion and development. These threats remain unpredictable, with raiding parties sometimes emerging in unexpected locations due to the vast network of underground passages that connect various goblin strongholds to the surface world.

The supernatural elements within the barony's borders present ongoing sources of concern and potential instability that persist despite the rational advances of the current age. The mysterious activities in the Dormont Forest, centered around Ursool's presence, create an atmosphere of unease among the local population while limiting access to valuable forest resources. Similarly, the sealed sections of the Underkeep beneath Norwynne Keep represent both a potential treasure trove and a possible source of unknown dangers, creating difficult decisions about exploration versus caution that reflect the broader tension between advancement and security.

Political tensions among the Four Fiefdoms continue to influence the barony's strategic planning and resource allocation, as the memory of the unified kingdom of Darshavon creates ongoing desires for reunification among ambitious leaders. The complex web of alliances, rivalries, and competing interests requires careful diplomatic management while maintaining military readiness for potential conflicts. Lord Vuller's practical approach to these challenges sometimes conflicts with the more idealistic or ambitious plans of other regional leaders, creating ongoing tensions that must be carefully managed.

The presence of powerful magical practitioners within the barony creates both opportunities and risks that exemplify the challenges of the Age of Advancement. While figures like Elsanar contribute valuable knowledge and capabilities that advance the barony's interests, the more controversial research conducted by Ansanom at Wildemoore Manor raises questions about the proper limits of magical experimentation and the potential consequences of uncontrolled arcane research. Balancing the benefits of magical advancement with the need to prevent catastrophic accidents requires ongoing attention and careful oversight.

Economic pressures arising from the need to maintain military readiness while supporting a growing population create ongoing challenges for resource allocation and development planning. The barony's prosperity depends on maintaining trade relationships and accessing natural resources, but these activities must be balanced against security concerns and the unpredictable nature of the supernatural threats that continue to influence daily life throughout the region. As the Age of Advancement brings unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation, Fallmere must navigate these challenges while preserving the stability and security that have defined the Ashcroft legacy for over four centuries.