Schwarz Junction
Perched at the eastern edge of Middenwald where the forest thins and the hills begin to roll into Esterreach , Schwarz Junction is a rugged frontier town carved from the obsidian-black basalt of the surrounding ridges. Its position at the convergence of the Ostrun Road and The Beltway makes it a vital chokepoint for goods, caravans, and military patrols. Though modest in size (less than 2,000 permanent residents), the town is fortified and functional, its dark stone construction giving it a stoic and looming silhouette—especially when fog rolls in from the lowlands. A considerable transient population moves through daily due to its position on the junction of two major roads.
Districts
The Wedge
The central hub of Schwarz Junction, where the roads split like a Y-shaped wedge. This has developed into a bustling market square and is the trade core of town. The Wedge Market is a bustling open-air market for local and caravan goods. Features black stone stalls and canvas awnings.
The Slumbering Giant is a large stone hall that serves as both waystation and hostel. Traders and travellers sleep in its communal quarters or in its few private rooms. The inn is named for the shape of the nearby hills visible from the windows of its upper storey.
The Paystone is the local name for the local trade hall, where permits and taxes are filed.
Watchrise
A bluff of higher ground overlooking the town, used primarily for military and civic buildings. The area is dominated by Fort Schwarzrock a squat, fortified keep garrisoned by a company of Middenwald Cavaliers (perhaps 30–50 strong). The Fort oversees defence and patrols of Schwarz Junction and this easternmost portion of Battervold. Commanded by Captain Varek Thorne, a stoic Human veteran known for his calm under pressure and quiet loyalty to Middenwald. The Fort sits atop the northern hill of Schwarz Junction and its position and style suggests it was the first building here around which the town gradually grew.
Also in Watchrise are the Cavalier Stables which houses horses, supplies, and a training ground for horses for the Cavaliers. Borders on the Cavaliers training grounds as well.
Rising above Watchrise is the Old Bell Tower, a squat tower with a massive iron bell used to signal attacks, fires, or dignitary arrivals. Adjoins the Schwarzrock on the western side.
Stonefall Quarter
Built into the slope of a hill below Watchrise where loose basalt and scree form the roads here. The homes here are hardy stone buildings with thick chimneys and narrow windows. Most locals living here are traders, artisans, drovers, or hunters. Also within the Stonefall are the The Junction Chapels, a row of small but sturdy shrines dedicated to various gods including Avandra, Etharis, Melora, Moradin, Sehanine, and The Raven Queen. Maintained by a small circle of lay clerics and visiting priests.
Beltway Commons
The eastern stretch of road leading to Esterreach, filled with wagon yards and transient housing and camping.
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