Altalerno

Historically, Altalerno was an important waypoint in ancient Barisea, serving as a halfway point between Metrovo and Allesar. After Allesend seceded from Barisea, it remained as a major trading hub between the two nations. Later, during the reign of the Allesend Empire, Altalerno became a major stop on the Old Imperial Highway, and it population increased greatly. During this time, the Empire constructed a wall around the city and built a citadel within, using it as a military base.   During the War of Independence, Altalerno was the site of a fierce campaign in 316 AE, as Edrana was pushing into Imperial territory. Its wall was destroyed in several places, and fighting spilled onto the streets. Eventually, the city was captured by Edranite forces, who occupied the city for the remainder of the war. As part of the Treaty of Celestina, Altalerno was returned to Alln control.   In century following the war, the city slowly rebuilt. The smaller holes in the wall were patched, though the largest breach remains to today. Corrupt nobles and officials used this period of time to increase taxes and government control over local businesses. The city's middle class slowly disappeared.   Around 445 AE, a group of criminals established a Thieves' Guild in the city, dedicating themselves to become a check for the nobility's growing power. Over the past thirty years, the Guild has grown strong, redistributing stolen wealth back into the hands of the common folk.