Altbruke

Capital of the River Province Population: 18,000 people

Ruler: Duke Malcador Engelhart

Civil War Allegiance: Mannfred von Kessel

Known For: Altbruke University, Printing Presses, Coffee Houses Straddling a wide expanse of the Drann River is a great curved causeway of stone. Huddled about either side of the impressive bridge are two contrasting halves of one city. The northern side is dominated by the lawns and stately buildings of noble estates and an impressive university campus. The south side is tightly packed together with small ramshackle housing. The smell of coffee and newsprint fills the air. Thanks to the presence of its prestigious university, Altbruke sports a highly-educated and well-read population, even amongst the low-born people who inhabit the city. As a result, it is a hotbed for new philosophies and political ideas. Most recently, the topic of “alternative systems of governance,” a strange notion known as “democracy,” and “representation of the people” have become popular topics amongst the student body, much to the consternation of Duke Malcador Engelhart.

The city was captured during the Civil War of Westemär, during which the university was heavily damaged and the famous bridge nearly collapsed. Duke Malcador was able to maintain control and suffered minor losses, and has spent the years since repairing and modernizing the northern side of the city. The new construction and fixed architecture are regarded as some of the most beautiful buildings constructed in Westemär.

Altbruke University

First founded in 1086, 25 years before the Meteor struck Drakkenheim , Altbruke is regarded as one of the continent’s finest institutions for higher learning. Administered by Headmaster Reginald Montgomery, Altbruke University is made up of three large rectangular buildings framing a central domed building that stands in the center. The buildings red brick with slate roofs, and main building features large white pillars that flank the main entrance. Across the street stands an impressive library built to match the construction of the university. The study at the University is entirely dedicated to conventional study of philosophy, literature, natural science, history, and mathematics. In addition, it is home to the Guild of Conscientious Practice and Scientific Discovery, an organization of philosophers, scientists, and doctors, who share knowledge, collaborate on research. Rumors say that some within the University clandestinely operate an occult study of apothecary magic, much to the behest of the Amethyst Academy.

Arcane instruction is expressly forbidden; under the Edicts of Lumen only the Amethyst Academy may operate a mage school. Representatives from the Amethyst Academy regularly audit the collections and curriculum of the university to ensure no tome of magical lore has fallen into its stacks.

Curriculum

Various pathways exist for students who are fortunate enough to be accepted. Required courses include

Arts and Humanities

Geopolitics

It is not uncommon for amethyst academy alumni to attend the university for post-doctorate work. In fact, students are occasionally sponsored by the Amethyst Academy in exchange for updates on university faculty, events, and anything that would otherwise appear suspicious.