Harmonias is a province of the Divine Empire that had been subjugated by humanoids for over thirty years. It was freed by the forces of the Duchess of Everwatch and her allies but prior to that had a much troubled and violent history. Today it is still recovering with much of the land in ruins; the inhabitants are faring with various degrees of success and small bands of humanoids still roaming and evading capture. Efforts are still being made to re-establish full order, to protect and nurture the populace while hunting the humanoid remnants; it is still expected to be a slow process. Harmonias is rich in a rare enchanted mineral called Reliquum that greatly aids in the creation of magical items. The province has large fields of the mineral that can be profitably mined with minimal investment but the presence of large hordes of humanoids had always prohibited this. With the liberation these large ore fields, located near Harmonias city and Eastward Bay, have been developed.
Harmonias was the main humanoid state in Western Warlderia before the Higher Wars. It had a prosperous if savage existence up to the time of Kaegor and his Liberation War when he sent Lord Bravlin to conquer the land driving the orcs and their ilk deep underground. House Bravlin ruled the wealthy province of Harmonias through the mad Emperor period up until 329 I.Y. when a horde of creatures from the underdark poured forth overwhelming the province and its people. At this time the Old Empire launched an assault on the island province of Ipranius which diverted both attention and resources from the reconquest of Harmonas. The Duchy of Everwatch to the north established a border with ‘Fallen Harmonias’ and matters settled down in to a long stalemate.
Recent History
32 years later, In early 360 I.Y., the Harmonias humanoids sacked Castle Everwatch and looked set to overrun the whole northern duchy. Under the leadership of Duchess Katalin the humanoid host was shattered and driven back in to its own lands in a dramatic reversal of fate. The Council of Chieftains that had ruled splintered and dissent spread. Several attacks by the Duchy and her allies drove the humanoids back in to Harmonias and border lands were lost to the humans. Any semblance of humanoid co-operation ended and in-fighting broke out. The only favourable result for the humanoids was when the 4th Divine Legion was driven away at the 1st Batle of Shag'ra and the last remaining heir of the Bravlin line, Lady Arabella Mauberry, was captured. She was taken to the City of Galgortha, Harmonias the old provincial captial, which was controlled by the Uthabar Orog Tribe and their eastern human mercenary allies; these human allies were acolytes of the God Hextor, a deity of war, conflict and tyranny. To end the war they offered to elect a hero as their High King by marrying Lady Arabella and jointly ruling from Golgortha. . Though both the heroes Sadhaka Hakesh and Sir Wulfram Amali, who had not yet married Duchess Katalin, volunteered to wed Arabella it was the monk Quellin who took the High King mantle. Quellin and Arabella wed and were crowned as rulers gaining control of northern Harmonias and the Humanoid horde. Lady Arabella was a beauty skilled in the magical arts while Quellin was a wandering monk from a very brutal background; they made an unusual couple. They appointed several advisors including Sir Tristram, the leader of the Hextorian acolytes, before ordering the humanoid army south to subdue the orcs, goblins and gnolls that refused to accept their rule.
With the humanoid horde safely heading south, High King Quellin acted at home in the City of Galgortha. The next day Sir Tristram and his Hextor worshipping followers turned on all the remaining humanoids in Galgortha. Anyone of any humanoid blood was killed, the bulk of which were females and children. Thousands were hunted down and slaughtered with some half-bloods even fleeing north and east to Everwatch. The bodies were dragged out of the city and buried in three massive mass graves before they could rot and further pollute the city. The humans that had been enslaved by the humanoids were freed and armed to help finish the purge of the ‘green bloods’. Then Quellin declared for 'Humanity' and crusader units, Everwatch allies who had come to specifically fight the humanoids and free humans, the Maelfasan Brigade, from the human biased Barony, joined him along with the 4th Divine Legion. This caused the first split in the allies who had been fighting against the humanoids. The Church of Heironeous withheld support from Quellin due to the massacre and because of the presence of Hextor followers within his ranks; Heironeous and Hextor are arch enemies and detest each other. From the south the returning humanoid army was seeking bloody revenge so further arguments had to wait as Wulfram Amali led the 4th Divine Legion to block them. With assistance from the other allies Sir Wulfram was able to defeat the humanoids and once and for all route them, securing the safety of Galgortha.
Within the new regime of Harmonias matters then swiftly changed. The 'Heroes of Everwatch' argued with High King Quellin over his killing of the humanoids with many blaming Arabella. Quellin abdicated and walked away in to wilds while Arabella declared herself Margravine and vowed fealty to Duchess Katalin. Arabella re-employed the Hextorite mercenaries, continued to massacre all with a touch of humanoid blood and expelled the church of Pelor. The alliance effectively fell apart as the humans bickered amongst themselves till finally war broke out between the forces of Margravine Arabella and Duchess Katalin who could not abide a Hextor worshipping state on her border. Surprisingly the 2nd Battle of Galgortha was a tactical victory for Margravine Arabella with the forces of Duchess Katalin driven back in to Everwatch; a stalemate developed. A desperate Margravine sought aid from the most dangerous of sources and an interrupted meeting with the leaders of the Underdark led to her death at the hands of the Heroes of Everwatch. Quick to capitalise on her death, Everwatch attacked again and this time, at the Battle of Nyrlin's Folly, they defeated the leaderless Galgortha forces. In exchange for safe passage, the Hextor mercenaries surrendered the city and finally left the province. The City of Galgortha was officially renamed Harmonia and an Everwatch Governor, Baron Jasper af Staller, was appointed as ruler. A chain of small forts was established to the south east while once again the humanoids sued for peace. For a short while, a fragile truce existed with the humanoids to the south surrendering at least some of their human slaves to the Duchess. She is in turn settled the ex-slaves in the north, especially in Stonehaven with aid from the Church of Pelor and financing from the Temple of Zilchus.
Conflict soon erupted from an unexpected source as Istavan Vadild and his House Chapray backers landed at the port of Steelrayn and defeated the last remnants of the once powerful humanoid Council of Chieftains. Istavan and Tibor were the younger twin brothers of Duchess Katalin who were believed to have died in the sack of Castle Everwatch but were in fact rescued by the ‘Heroes of Everwatch’ and brought forward through time. Sixteen year old Istavan believed he was the rightful Duke and had turned to House Chapray for support. The Chapray’s were of good of heart, as followers of Pelor, but they were overconfident of success when they intervened to support him. They felt a quick and decisive victory would show his fitness and right to rule and their conquest of Steelrayn boosted this belief. A subsequent failed attempt by House Chapray to destroy Kaplyn, the Necromancer of Mortesia, cost the house and its followers dearly in lives and treasure. Istavan and Eleanor Chapray, his Aunt and House leader, were both killed along with the annihilation of their forces. Kaplyn then marched on Harmonia and only a hasty truce and treaty averted another war with, this time, an undead ruler. Both Everwatch and Kapyln agreed to not interfere in each other’s affairs and to mutually exist. This was not well received by the Church of Heironeous but Everwatch did not have the resources to defeat the necromancer and the Duchess felt she had little choice but to agree to the treaty.
The Galsitanic Intrusion
It is rare that one person has such a major effect on the face of the Lands of Warlderia who is not of royal birth or high magical power; Galsitan Gresvurian was one such person. Galsitan was, and probably still is, a half-elf bard of great charm and skill though of limited modesty and debatable scruples. His detractors called him vain and self-centred but even they could not deny his superb bardic skills and gift for extraordinary performances. Galsitan was adventuring with the Heroes of Everwatch in a subterranean area underneath ruined settlement of Vrowbin when the party were magically linked to the fey plane of Anywn. He had reason to perform and did so in such an exquisite way that the Fey Queen and her Sidhe Court were aware of him; She came from her realm and visited him and when she left she took parts of Harmonias with her and left parts of her realm behind. The Silver Woods of Puevon and the Golden Woods of Anwyn appeared and Morteisa, the necromancer’s lair, vanished. Overall it has been a great improvement for Harmonias even allowing for the less good inclined fey folk that appeared. Unfortunately the remaining humanoids of Harmonias suddenly found that there were elves, half elves and all manner of fey folk bordering them; they reacted in a predictable fashion. As the heroes and the Sisterhood of Anwyn tried to stop an invasion by a thousand orcs, Galsitan played his trump card. He once again performed to summon the Fey Queen and once again performed so well she arrived. On a mere whim she sent the orc horde ‘away’ saving the Golden Woods but taking Galsitan away with her. Though only a minute had passed for the other heroes, a year and a day had passed for Galsitan spent in the wonder of the Sidhe Court. The pain of being back in the mundane world hurt the bard but his music saved the day and totally altered the geography of the Lands of Warlderia.
Settlements:
Harmonia (Galgortha)
Small City: Alignment: LN, Population: 8,400 (99% human). Authority figures: Baron Jasper af Staller (human male, fighter), Tibor Vadild (human male, fighter-aristocrat).
Harmonia is the old provincial capital and was once an impressive city of grace and beauty that has long since fallen in to disrepair since its sacking and capture by humanoids over thirty years ago. When dominated by the Orcs and then Uthabar Orogs, it was called Galgortha but recently was captured by the Duchy of Everwatch and reverted back to its old Harmonia name. For a brief period it was controlled by Margravine Arabella backed by Hextor mercenaries but her death and their defeat to the Duchy of Everwatch has led to its current governor, Baron Jasper af Staller, being appointed to rebuild the city.
Baron Jasper introduced strict no nonsense policies to administering the city with the formation of an active and honest city watch and magistrates. This stamped out much of the endemic corruption that plagued Harmonia but also caused a degree of unrest as the populace adjusted to the new rule of law. In turn the Baron never hesitated to keep order using the sizeable Everwatch garrison to quell unrest; over the last two years sizeable numbers of rioters and criminals were imprisoned and sentenced to hard labour for their criminal actions. Though a sizeable criminal underworld still exists the Watch maintains order and the economy of Harmonia is in turn booming. It is becoming more and more like a normal city and the bulk of the populace fear a return to the random violence and rampant corruption of the past. Along with the imposition of the rule of law major efforts to rebuild the city and to assist the populace took place. The Church of Pelor established a temple and numerous shrines from which aid and assistance was freely given while Clerics of Bralm continued to aid and guide construction and rebuilding.
To the north and east of Harmonia are the reliquum fields that are a valuable magical resource where grants to exploit the fields were issued. This has led to a boom in Harmonia and the population has doubled in size in a mere two years. Much of the rebuilding has been completed but there are still sizeable run down areas that need further aid. Baron Jasper brought Tibor Vadild, the 19 year old brother of the Duchess, to join him and to learn how to rule. In time, the Baron wants to retire back to his estates at Milton and hopes that Tibor might rule Harmonia, with the aid of the Baron’s son Hyatt.
Maidenvale (Shag’ra)
Large Town: Alignment: TN, Population: 2,509 (90% human, 6% half-orc, 4% other). Authority figures: Sir Huwel af Morriss (human male, fighter), Honest-John Humblesworn (human, male, merchant).
Maidenvale was a prosperous market town to the north east of Harmonia till it was overrun by humanoids. It was then left largely abandoned for the next thirty years till it, as Shag’ra, became the new home of the Kal-Varzt Hobgoblins after they were evicted from Telchion (Fal’Nfort). Over 2,000 warriors and additional dependents lived there and the ruined town was fortified till the Kal-Varzt were defeated and destroyed in battle. It was occupied by Everwatch forces under Ducal knight Sir Huwel af Morriss who assisted 1,000 ex-slaves in rebuilding and settling in Maidenvale. As the town is between two large reliquum fields it has also grown as a trade centre and is somewhat of a boomtown. Unlike some of the southern Harmonias towns they also allow half-orcs residency, which has not caused much tension as hobgoblins were the previous slave masters. One of the ex-slaves, then known as 'Tainted Crawler' by his hobgoblin masters, has become a successful merchant and is a leading town figure under his new name of Honest-John Humblesworn. In the last two years Maidenvale has been repaired within her walls but outside are tents and other temporary buildings where the transient residents live. A town watch keeps the peace inside the walls and outside, to a degree, while unit of Ducal Scouts patrols the countryside for remnant humanoids and bandits.
Just outside of Maidenvale was a ruined temple of the evil god of slaughter and conflict, Hextor but it was totally demolished by the orders of Sir Huwel who had the lower levels filled in and the building stones broken down in to gravel for the local roads. Very little is left to mark the location but some say they fell an air of menace at the site but most dismiss this.
Gloryhome (Woodchase)
Small Town: Alignment: TN, Population: 500 (93% human, 4% Dwarven, 3% Other). Authority figure: Osthen Amali (human male, adventurer).
Gloryhome is a small port town on the north eastern coast of Harmonias on the shore of the Western Inderta Sea. It is a new settlement that was set up as a base for the 4th Divine Legion when it was sent to assist in the liberation of Harmonias province. When the legion withdrew it was taken over by Margravine Arabella’s forces but then destroyed in a surprise attack by Lord Rufus Renfrew’s forces from Telchion. Eventually members of the Amali family moved to Gloryhome from Lyand in the County of Southwatch. They were close relatives of Wulfram, the husband of Duchess Katalin. Osthen Amali and his three sons are the leaders and they brought in workers to start a thorough rebuild. Within the last two years a major wharf and warehouses have been constructed and a temple-market to Zilchus, the god of commerce. The settlement is now well developed and is a bustling port.
Steelrayn
Small Town: Alignment: LN, Population: 1,450 (55% human, 40% Dwarven, 5% Other). Authority figures: Lady Virago Termagent (human female, wizard) and Mother Trow Restell of Estana (human, female cleric).
Steelrayn is a fishing port and agricultural community located on the western shore of Harmonias. It is home to a group of female human ex-slaves, known as the Sorority of Picayune, and a settlement of Vargrimst, humiliated Dwarven ex-slaves. These groups arrived from "The Other Place" after a failed invasion of Aelfshaw by Elves and Dwarves. Once enslaved by evil Dwarven factions, Klan Martazhold and Klan Thorekmek, both worshippers of Abbathor, they banded together to create a new life for themselves. Many of the women were pregnant, and numerousl half-Dwarves were born in Steelrayn. The leader of the community is Lady Virago Termagent, once a noblewoman from Masalb, who was enslaved as the concubine of Jarl Martazhold, the Dwarven leader. She is supported by Trow Restell, a cleric of Estanna, the demigoddess of hearth and home. Known as Mother Trow, she is also the town’s midwife, famous for her kind heart and forgiving nature. Trow has her own half-Dwarf son and plays an essential role in the community. The town's sheriff is Avila Beltran, a tough yet fair half-Dwarf woman, known for her no-nonsense approach to leadership.
In the past two years, the town has been rebuilt, largely due to the hardworking Vargrimst, while the women have focused on learning new trades and raising their children. The road to Harmonia has been restored, making Steelrayn an important southern port. However, the nearby Bastion Canyon and Mort Swamp still pose occasional threats, with unwelcome creatures from these areas visiting the town. To protect the village, a company of female warriors led by Captain Lizabeth Bathory has been formed. The Dwarven captors of these women never understood that women could be warriors and fighters, and in their chauvinism, they routinely killed male human prisoners but spared the women, some of whom proved to be highly capable. Traditionally, once per season, Sir Galwas visits Steelrayn, bringing the latest news from beyond the town. While he is technically the ruler, Sir Galwas always shows Lady Virago the utmost respect, honouring her in a chivalrous manner.
Puevon
Village: Alignment: LN, Population 150 (90% human, 8% half-Orc, 2% other). Languages: Common & Sōren, Religion: Xerbo, Authority figures: Stal Pheral (male, scholar) Edelmir Grausam (human male, trader).
Puevon is a small, stoutly walled town with a modest harbour and a bustling market, home to around 300 inhabitants; an ideal population for its compact layout. An ancient settlement, Puevon was brought to Warlderia by the magic of the Fey Queen, replacing the newer town of Vrowbin. Many of Puevon's residents are members of the extended Crimson Coaster family, related to Maelara Grausam, a Ducal Knight of Everwatch.
The town features a small temple dedicated to Xerbo, the god of business and seafaring, as well as the Bat Inn and a trading store run by Edelmir Grausam. The mysterious scholar Stal Pheral resides in his magical mansion, surrounded by a garden of exotic plants. In recent years, more freed human and half-orc slaves have settled in Puevon alongside the Grausam family. The former slaves tend the fields while the Crimson Coasters focus on fishing and maintaining their boats. Puevon is protected by walls laced with cold iron and strong wards, preventing the fey from entering. This security is especially crucial as the town lies on the borders of the enchanted Silver Woods, keeping out the more malevolent and dangerous fey inhabitants. Maelara Grausam has been named Lady of Puevon and the Silver Woods by the Duchess of Everwatch, though she spends much of her time away on various duties for the Duchy.
Illustration by StefanoMarinetti - please do not use without permission
Wyntern
This now destroyed settlement was located at the southern end of the Orc’s Cleft chasm. It was both a port to the west and a cliff top settlement to the east with a mere mile of land separating them. It was home to creatures that wander up from the Underdark and for stragglers from the recently defeated humanoid armies. Wyntern was a warren of a lanes and alleyways which were all in a sad state of disrepair. A magically created earthquake levelled the settlement and collapsed the strip of land flooding the southern part of the Orc's Cleft to become Loch Rayden.
Joyess
Village: Alignment: CG, Population: 470 (95% human, 5% other) Languages: Common, Religion: Lastai, Authority figure: Gabriel Spumanta (human male, fighter-bard)
Gabriel Spumanta was once a knight errant of the Primelliann Order of the Glorious, Fantastic Knights Valiant, until he took part in the Tournament at Tawney Meadows in Aelfshaw. Like many others, he answered the call and volunteered to aid Everwatch in her battle against the invading orcs and other humanoids. A skilled and valiant knight, Gabriel fought bravely, earning the title of Ducal Knight and lands to call his own. With these lands, he built his manor, but his greatest passion was not for war or conquest, he was a hopeless romantic at heart, driven by the pursuit of 'Courtly Love'. Gabriel’s village, Joyess, is a small but picturesque settlement, built around his magnificent manor house. The village is a beautiful sight to behold, though somewhat impractical, with a small but functional harbor to serve the needs of its residents. Despite its flaws, Joyess is known far and wide for the warm and extravagant welcomes Sir Gabriel offers to guests, often hosting lavish parties that are the talk of Harmonias and beyond.
However, Gabriel’s desire to live a life of romanticgrandeur comes at a cost. His wealth is not sufficient to sustain the lavish lifestyle he dreams of, so he frequently embarks on adventures in search of gold and other riches. His servants and the villagers enjoy a rare luxury in Harmonias as they are the least worked in the province, granted the freedom to amuse themselves when Gabriel is not in residence. Though Sir Gabriel may be absent for much of the time, his manor and village remain a testament to his desire for romance, beauty, and a life of elegance, no matter the cost.
The String Forts
During one of the many truces between Everwatch and the Harmonias Humanoids, Baron Jasper af Staller commissioned the construction of a defensive chain stretching from the southern border of Harmonia, near Mortesia, up to the northeastern coast by the Indersta Sea. Bastion, which faced Mortesia, was an unpopular posting. The largest of the fortifications, Bright Redoubt, was built to the east of Harmonia, close to a vast reliquum field. It served as a guard post for the many prospectors in the area and as a bustling trading hub. Further east, Seafort was constructed along the coast, while Fasthold stood between them. With Everwatch's eventual victory over Harmonias, the forts' roles initially shifted. Only Bright Redoubt remained garrisoned to oversee the nearby reliquum field, while the others were reduced to mere trading posts and inns for travelers. However, this change was short-lived. The resurgence of remnant humanoids led to the rapid reoccupation of all the forts, particularly Fasthold, which controlled the contested Reliquum Ash field. Orcs from the Red Canyon began preying on the local prospectors, prompting the appointment of Sir Hathus Amali as Warden. Leading elements of the Ducal Cavalry, Amali waged a brutal and relentless war of containment to protect the region.
Fasthold
Small Town: Alignment: TN, Population: 950 (90% human, 10% other) Languages: Common, Religion: Zilchus, Authority figure: Sir Hathus Amali (human male, fighter), Serafina Delarosa (human female, sorcerer).
Two years later things have settled down, to a degree. The northern Redwardine hills and the Red Canyon have become a treaty reservation of the Dralkaal Kaarlec Hobgoblins, commonly referred to a Tuskland. Even with this Fasthold is still a bustling centre with many prospectors and trader based here.
Bright Redoubt
Village: Alignment: TN/CN, Population: 755 (80% human, 10% half-orc, 10% other) Languages: Common & Orcish, Religions: Kurrell & Zilchus. Authority figure: Sir Haxem Barleyvale (human male, fighter), Thurman Shades (human female, rogue)
The Ducal Knight, Sir Hexam, commands Bright Redoubt but spends the majority of his time patrolling the surrounding lands. A skilled warrior, he struggles with administration and leaves much of the daily management to Thurman Shades, a former slave now turned trader. Unfortunately, Bright Redoubt has deteriorated into little more than a hollow façade of a functioning village, with corruption and theft rampant throughout. Most honest traders and prospectors have moved their operations to Fasthold or Maidenvale, while the less scrupulous have taken up residence in Bright Redoubt, exploiting its crumbling order for their own gain.
Bastion
Village: Alignment: NG, Population: 455 (85% human, 5% half-elf, 15% other) Languages: Common, Sylvan & Elven, Religions: Old Faith & Ehlonna. Authority Figures: Megilindir (half-elf female ranger), Corwallon (human, male, druid)
Hailing from the Golden Woods, Megilindir joined Duchess Katalin’s service in search of adventure and excitement. She quickly proved herself both capable and loyal, eventually rising to command Bastion with the support of Carwallon the Druid. Despite their differing faiths, Megilindir and Carwallon have forged a strong partnership, working together to make Bastion a secure and welcoming settlement. Humans, half-orcs, and the fey coexist peacefully, with minimal friction, creating a harmonious community in the once-remote outpost.
Seafort
Village: Alignment: LN/LG, Population: 455 (95% human, 5% other) Languages: Common, Religions: Merikka and Heironeous. Authority Figures: Sir Bertram Pellenne (human, male, fighter), Daphiel (human, female, cleric)
Seafort is a peaceful, small fishing village along the coast, attracting those who seek a more orderly and virtuous way of life. While traders and prospectors occasionally pass through on their way to the Reliquum, they rarely linger for long. Sir Bertram commands the settlement, diligently fulfilling his duties, but the true heart of the community lies with Priestess Daphiel, a devoted follower of the farming deity Merikka. Under her guidance, Seafort thrives with a strong sense of community, though it comes with a strict emphasis on conformity, a way of life that not everyone may find appealing.
Stones of Cerne
Cerne is an ancient holy site of the Old Faith, enduring for centuries as a place of profound spiritual significance. Re-consecrated by the Druids, it serves as a central hub of worship not only for the province but for followers from far beyond. When the humanoid invaders overran it, the site was tragically defiled, and its sacredness was desecrated. Before its fall, Cerne was a major druidic center, drawing pilgrims from all across Warlderia. At the heart of the site are the Spiralling Stones of Cerne, believed to lead to a higher state of consciousness and to otherworldly realms. Surrounding the stones is the invisible labyrinth, a mystical construct perceptible only to high-ranking Druids. Though uninitiated individuals may wander into it, few manage to escape. It is said that a Hierophant Druid resides at Cerne, overseeing the site's full restoration. To date, at least a dozen druids have sacrificed their lives to re-consecrate the inner stones, which are now once again a sanctified druidic shrine. Over two thousand people, including worshippers, restoration workers, and supporters, are present at the site, contributing to its revival and maintaining its sacred legacy.
Barony of Redwardine
The lands east of the Stone Circle of Cerne were the last region under humanoid control before the Duchy of Everwatch fully re-conquered the province. As a result, they remain the least settled and most unruly part of the province. To bring stability to the area, Duchess Katalin granted these eastern lands to her godfather, Rufus Renfrew, officially creating the Barony of Redwardine. In exchange, the new Baron relinquished all his other holdings, including the fortress of Telchion, but gained control over the ruined city of Astonwick and the towns of Eastward Bay and Howedin, which he was tasked with rebuilding.
Rufus solidified his claim by marrying Marjorie Hanratty, the eldest child of the late Crispin Hanratty, a Leosandrian merchant and alleged direct descendant of the last Lord of Astonwick. Through this marriage, Rufus secured his legal position, tying up any potential claims to the lands. He also adopted the white stag, the Hanratty family symbol, as his own Baronial crest. In return for a generous dowry, Rufus appointed Marjorie’s stepfather, Albor Chesaray, as the lord of Eastward Bay, tasking him with the swift redevelopment of the old port. Albor, a wealthy trader with extensive assets in the Successor States and beyond, was well-equipped for the task. Rufus’ daughter, Agnes, was appointed to govern the city of Astonwick on her father’s behalf, while he took charge of overseeing the reconstruction of the port and shipyard at Howedin. The Renfrew family, together with their followers and mercenaries, were granted lands and homes within the newly established barony. Many of them, eager to contribute to the region’s recovery, settled in the area and brought their extended families to help rebuild and revitalize the land.
The northern region of the Barony, including the Red Canyon and the Redwardine Hills, remains the least tamed area in all of Harmonias. While humanoid resistance had been decisively crushed, large numbers of itinerant remnants still inhabit this rugged terrain. Some have taken to the hills, others to the canyon, while a few continue to linger near the edges of the newly settled lands, engaging in theft and raids. Despite these ongoing troubles, the region was not a top priority for pacification, given the more favorable lands to the south that needed development and stabilization.
The Ducal Scouts occasionally patrolled the border from Astonwick, but there was little desire for a large-scale military campaign to clear the Hills and Canyon. Then, an unexpected opportunity arose. A truce, followed by a treaty, was brokered through the efforts of adventuring heroes and Shovlarog, Prefectus of the Dralkaal Kaarlec, a hobgoblin-led remnant force. The treaty established a reservation area that encompassed the lands between the eastern edge of the Red Canyon and the Redwardine Hills, with the southern boundary defined by the southern source of the Canyon River and the southern end of the Redwardine Hills. For the past two years, the treaty has held, with only minor infractions, maintaining a fragile peace in the region. It is unofficially referred to as Tuskland by Agnes Renfrew, the nearest ruler to the area.
Though technically owing fealty to the March of Harmonias, the Barony of Redwardine pays it directly to the Duchess of Everwatch. The Barony has been recognised by Everwatch, Aelfshaw, Maelfasan, Veston Vale, Summerswane and even the Blood Isles though not by the court of the Divine Emperor; who continues to become less and less relevant in the affairs of the Empire and world in general.
Astonwick (Agrabash)
Large Town: Alignment: TN (NE), Population: 4,200 (60% human, 38% half-humanoid, 2% other). Languages: Orcish and Common, Religions: Pelor and Gruumsh (secretly), Authority figure: Lady Agnes Renfrew (human female, fighter) and Father Filton Pyre of Pelor (Human, male cleric).
Astonwick, once the second city of the province, was utterly sacked by the orcish invaders and fell under the brutal rule of the fanatically devout followers of the Orcish god Gruumsh. The subjugated humans endured a horrific existence, their lives marked by relentless suffering. The priests of Gruumsh would ceremoniously sacrifice and torture their slaves, causing massive loss of life and stripping the captives of their humanity over many years of torment. Even now, two years after the city’s liberation, the freed slaves remain scarred by their experiences, with many still bearing the psychological wounds of their brutal past. Their behaviors, often selfish and violent, reflect the harshness of their servitude. The settlement is now under the rule of Agnes Renfrew, the Baron’s daughter, with the help of Father Filton Pyre of Pelor, who brought a congregation of devoted followers to aid in the city’s recovery. While Lady Agnes restored law and order to Astonwick, Father Filton provided healing, food, and clothing to the ex-slaves, offering them a chance at recovery.
The Old Keep, once a temple to Gruumsh, was exorcised and repurposed as a barracks. A new temple to Pelor was re-consecrated, and from the ruins of the city, Astonwick slowly began to rebuild. The former slaves were taught 'proper behavior' by the Pelorians, while Lady Agnes relied on her soldiers to act as the town watch, maintaining strict order and discipline. Astonwick had been a savage and uncivilized place even by humanoid standards, and many speculate that this is why it was left for Agnes to develop, while her father, Baron Rufus, took charge of the less troubled Howedin.
Despite its brutal history, the land surrounding Astonwick is fertile, and large plantations were established, offering good working conditions and reasonable pay for those who chose to work there. Surprisingly, these plantations have become popular among the ex-slaves, providing them with purpose and a steady livelihood. They have flourished, marking a notable success in the rehabilitation of Astonwick and its people. Astonwick’s garrison includes two hundred mercenaries from the Crimson Auxiliaries, led by the seasoned warrior Ulf Bjarne. These mercenaries are veterans from the Blood Isles and the Crimson Coast, accustomed to violence and skilled in fighting in smaller, more agile groups. Their willingness to use force when necessary occasionally puts them at odds with the more idealistic Pelorians, who prefer peaceful solutions. In addition to the Crimson Auxiliaries, there are almost four hundred warriors of the Ducal Scouts stationed in the town. Their primary role is to patrol the surrounding lands and hunt down the remaining hostile humanoid stragglers, ensuring the safety of the settlement and the wider region.
Astonwick seems poised for growth due to its inclusive policy of allowing anyone and everyone to settle in the town. The Pelorians, along with the mercenaries, set an example by working tirelessly alongside the former slaves to rebuild the town and help its people heal. Though the physical health of Astonwick’s inhabitants has greatly improved—they are well-fed, clothed, and strong—the psychological toll of years under humanoid tyranny remains heavy. The stress and trauma of their past still linger, casting a shadow over the town as its people struggle to overcome their painful history and build a hopeful future.
There have long been rumors about a romantic connection between Lady Agnes and Father Filton, as both were once adventuring comrades, having traveled extensively together in their younger years. Now, these rumors have been confirmed, as the two are formally engaged, despite Filton likely not being the Baron’s first choice for a son-in-law. Father Filton hails from a wealthy family in Leosandria, a Successor State colony, and was largely unknown in Harmonias before his arrival. He has shown little interest in the political maneuverings of the region, focusing instead on the restoration of Astonwick. His dedication to the city’s recovery has been unwavering, and he insists that only once the town is fully rebuilt and secure will he marry Lady Agnes. This steadfast devotion to his work has garnered respect, even as it delays the union, leaving many to wonder how his relationship with Agnes will unfold in the future.
Howedin (Amersoyn)
Small Town: Alignment: TN/LN, Population: 1,980 (96% human, 4% other) Languages: Gnoll and Common, Religions: Zilchus and Bralm, Authority figure: Baron Rufus Renfrew (human male, fighter) and Guilder-Priest Lockshy of Zilchus (Human, male cleric).
Howedin was once a thriving trading port, known for its exceptional shipyards and an excellent harbour, until it was overrun by invading Gnolls. The Gnolls enslaved the human population, subjecting them to years of brutal servitude. During this time, the Gnoll rulers were lazy and indulgent, delegating the management of the town, known as Amersoyn, to their slaves. Only occasional acts of violence, such as torture or execution to set examples, disrupted the otherwise passive existence of the slaves. The Gnolls were preoccupied with low-level conflicts with neighbouring humanoids, which satisfied their bloodlust and cruelty, allowing their slaves a degree of autonomy. Although weak-willed, the slaves did not descend into bestial savagery, as the Gnolls often left them to their own devices.
Following the liberation of Howedin by the Divine Navy and the Army of Everwatch, the town came under the direct rule of Baron Rufus. He was assisted by Lockshy, a Zilchus priest who was determined to restore trade and market efficiency to the port. Rufus quickly brought in large quantities of food, clothing, and building supplies to aid in the recovery of the ex-slaves. Meanwhile, the clerics of Bralm provided day-to-day guidance, helping the ex-slaves repair the shipyards and rebuild the town. While conditions in Howedin have vastly improved, the structured and hierarchical approach of Baron Rufus and his aides has given the former slaves a familiar, albeit rigid, framework for their new lives. Under the direction of the clerics of Bralm, the reconstruction progressed at a steady pace, with the shipyard fully operational within a year. Much like in Astonwick, a plantation system was established outside the town, though the conditions were less compassionate than those in Astonwick, with fewer idealistic gestures from the leadership.
To ensure the security of the town, the elite Red Helm regiment was stationed in Howedin, giving Rufus the means to defend the settlement from both internal and external threats. Though Howedin is still in the process of recovering from its dark past, the town is steadily rebuilding, albeit under a stern and utilitarian rule.
Eastward Bay
Village: Alignment: TN, Population: 950 (97% human, 3% other) Languages: Common, Religions: Zilchus and Bralm, Authority figure: Albor Chesaray (human male, merchant)
Eastward Bay was once a thriving human settlement and a major trading hub before it was overtaken by invading humanoids. Over time, the port became increasingly notorious as more and more corrupt and evil humans migrated there, establishing a flourishing slave trade that thrived on the suffering of others. The port became a haven for pirates from the Blood Isles, smugglers from the Old Empire, and dubious merchants from the Successor States. Its cosmopolitan nature drew a wide variety of races, but its growing reputation for vice and cruelty cast a long shadow over the town. As the re-conquest of Harmonias progressed, more and more organized orcs, hobgoblins and gnolls began to offer their services as mercenaries, sailing out of Eastward Bay. Nefarious employers exploited the worsening position of the humanoids, hiring desperate individuals seeking to flee before the collapse they feared was coming. Amid this chaos, the evil Lord Tarvin seized control of Eastward Bay, ruling alongside his half-Elven lover, the witch Elqwin. The town, once a beacon of unscrupulous trade, became a even worse den of corruption and lawlessness under their rule. Ultimately, the Army of Everwatch stormed Eastward Bay, ending the reign of the humanoids and evil humans within. The battle was brutal, and though the humanoid invaders were slaughtered, many of the poor slaves perished in the conflict as well. Lord Tarvin, allegedly killed by Baron Rufus during the assault, fell, but Elqwin managed to escape, disappearing into the shadows. With the fall of Eastward Bay, the last major humanoid settlement in Harmonias was finally conquered, and only scattered remnants of the humanoid forces remained, destined to be hunted down in the aftermath.
Baron Rufus appointed his father-in-law, Albor Chesaray, as the steward of Eastward Bay following its liberation. Albor, determined to turn the town into a profitable venture, expelled all remaining slaves and humanoids, transforming the ruined port into what he called a "blank canvas" for reconstruction. He imported four hundred craftsmen, laborers, and artisans from across the Lands to begin rebuilding the town, and sold plots to merchants, keen to establish a thriving trade hub once again. For some time, Eastward Bay was little more than a vast construction site, with the docks and surrounding areas at the center of the rebuilding efforts. Skilled craftsmen from Zargozan worked diligently to clear the ruins, and many chose to stay on after their work, encouraged by the promise of land. However, despite Albor's efforts, the town's growth was slower than expected. Even after two years, Eastward Bay still felt sparse, with fewer settlers arriving than Albor had hoped.
The shattered town wall has been fully repaired, and a company of mercenaries is stationed outside the port to protect the settlers from any remnants of hostile humanoids or ex-slaves that occasionally wander into the area. These "unwanted" visitors are dealt with swiftly, humanoids are killed, while ex-slaves are directed westward to Astonwick, which, in stark contrast to Albor's policies, accepts anyone in need of a place. Despite the harshness of his approach, Albor’s vision for Eastward Bay remains focused on profit and order, and while progress has been made, the settlement still struggles to become the bustling trade port it once was.
Illustration by Pino44io- please do not use without permission
