Skalliheim

Overview: Skalliheim is an ancient tower-fortress located in the northern reaches of Chernaya. Originally a single monolithic obelisk, Skalliheim is made from an alien, ageless black stone that is eerily similar to the Chatillian "Cryst," but it is completely inert, dead to all energetic resonance. The structure has long served as a lookout and refuge against attacks, particularly from the original northern peoples. Skalliheim is now undergoing significant expansion by decree of King Belgarion.   History and Origins: Skalliheim’s origins are shrouded in mystery. The structure was discovered by a group of Chernayans fleeing Tovag assaults. When they took refuge within the monolith, their pursuers inexplicably broke off their attack, unwilling or unable to enter. This tale has been passed down through generations, solidifying Skalliheim’s reputation as a place of eerie protection. The tower’s true origins are rumored to date back to the forgotten ages between the disappearance of the Old Feyn and the rise of Chernaya, though no records confirm this.   Geography and Structure:

• The Monolith: Skalliheim's original structure is a single hollow obelisk, towering over the surrounding landscape. It is made from a seamless slab of black stone, with a central staircase of exactly 500 steps winding up its interior. The stone itself is unlike anything else in Chernaya, with no visible seams or joins, giving it an almost otherworldly appearance.
• Recent Construction: In recent years, King Belgarion ordered the expansion of Skalliheim into a full-fledged keep and garrison. The new construction, designed by a renowned Rostovan architect, aims to envelop the ancient monolith with extensive fortifications, including walls, towers, and a castle exterior. At the time of the current events, this expansion is still underway, with laborers working tirelessly to complete the project.

Significance:   Strategic Importance: Skalliheim’s location makes it a vital strategic point in the defense of Chernaya’s northern borders. Its history as a refuge and lookout has made it a key position for monitoring potential threats from the northern peoples and the Tovag. The Feyn’s Avoidance: The Feyn are known to avoid Skalliheim, treating it as though it were a deadly hazard. This has led to rumors that the monolith possesses some kind of protective or repellent force against the Feyn, though this has never been fully understood or explained.    Current Use and Expansion:

• Garrison and Prison: Under King Belgarion’s orders, Skalliheim is being expanded to house a garrison of troops and a prison. The location’s natural deterrence to the Feyn makes it an ideal site for containing dangerous prisoners, including those with ties to the supernatural. The expansion includes the construction of barracks, watchtowers, and extensive walls designed to reinforce Skalliheim’s defensive capabilities.
• Symbol of Authority: The ongoing expansion of Skalliheim also serves as a symbol of King Belgarion’s authority and the Crown’s reach into the northern territories. The fortress, once a solitary refuge, is now being transformed into a stronghold of royal power, reflecting the king’s ambition and his desire to secure Chernaya’s borders. It will soon be the largest singular military force north of Sevgorod, and the view from the tower reaches just as easily westward towards Rostova as Eastward toward the Tovag Baragu.