Steeds Crossing

Steeds Crossing, once a military outpost, has grown into a thriving city on the southern shore of the Thornskald River, near the entrance to the Ashlands. Originally built to fend off Dragonborn invasions from the east, its massive timber walls still bear the scars of battle, a reminder of its violent history. The city sits along the Trail of Ash, a vital trade route that connects Yohir to the distant lands of Mera.   Famed for its horse culture, the people of Steeds Crossing are renowned riders and breeders. The Ashguard Riders, the city's elite cavalry, are unmatched in their skill, with horses bred for endurance and speed across rugged terrain. The city is ruled by the Council of Horsemasters, descendants of the original commanders who defended the outpost during the brutal Redscale Siege.   While peace with the Dragonborn has been largely maintained, the people of Steeds Crossing remain ever-vigilant, constantly patrolling the Ashlands’ border. Trade flourishes through its gates, but the city’s spirit is defined by its readiness for war. Life in Steeds Crossing is rugged, shaped by a legacy of resilience, independence, and an unbreakable bond with the powerful steeds they ride.

Demographics

The demographics of Steeds Crossing reflect its origins as a military outpost, its current role as a trade hub, and its distinct horse-centered culture. The population, known as the Steedborn, is diverse yet structured around a shared reverence for horsemanship, with different groups contributing to the city's identity and economy.  

Races

  • Humans (70%): As the majority population, humans make up most of the city’s elite riders, horse breeders, and warriors. The original Yohirin tribes that founded the city remain prominent, with many families tracing their lineage back to the early defenders of the Crossing.
    • Half-Elves (15%): Due to the proximity to trade routes and occasional contact with the Elven territories to the north, a significant half-elf population has emerged. Many half-elves in Steeds Crossing work as traders, artisans, or serve in more intellectual roles like diplomacy.
  • Dwarves (8%): Drawn from the Cragspire foothills, dwarves are typically involved in the mining and smithing industries. Their skills in working with iron and stone help maintain the massive timber walls and create the armor and weapons needed for the city’s defense.
  • Halflings (4%): Halflings are valued as skilled traders and caretakers of the city's markets. While not heavily involved in the martial traditions, many oversee trade and logistics, moving goods efficiently through the city.
  • Others (3%): A mix of rarer species, such as gnomes, tieflings, and the occasional dragonborn exile, can be found within Steeds Crossing. These inhabitants tend to fill specialized professions, such as alchemy, arcane craft, or mercenary work.
 

Ethnicities

  • Yohirin (60%): The Yohirin people, with their horse-based culture, dominate the social and political landscape. They are fiercely proud of their traditions, and many of the elite families who control the breeding of the finest warhorses hail from this ethnic group.
  • Meran (15%): Due to proximity with the Meran border, some immigrants from Mera have settled in Steeds Crossing. These people often bring new trade opportunities, acting as go-betweens for Yohir and the distant cities of Mera.
  • Cragborn Dwarves (8%): Indigenous to the foothills of the Cragspire Mountains, Cragborn dwarves have longstanding ties with Steeds Crossing, providing essential materials and craftsmanship for the city’s fortifications.
  • Nomadic Traders (5%): Various ethnic groups from across Shadowmarch make up the population of traders who pass through or settle in the city temporarily. They bring goods from far-flung regions, adding to the city’s wealth.
 

Wealth Classes

  • Elite (10%): The wealthiest citizens are generally tied to horse breeding and trading. The Council of Horsemasters governs the city and is made up of the richest families, who control both the political and military power.
  • Middle Class (30%): This group consists of traders, skilled artisans, and horse trainers. Many live relatively comfortable lives due to the city's central trade position and the high demand for warhorses.
  • Working Class (50%): Farmers, stablehands, smiths, and low-level soldiers make up this group. They provide essential services to the city and live modestly, many relying on the horse industry or the city’s military needs to survive.
  • Poor (10%): Though the city is prosperous, there is still a struggling underclass. These individuals, often unskilled laborers or displaced people from border conflicts, live in the rough outskirts near the city walls and rely on occasional work from the wealthy elite.
 

Professions

  • Horse Breeders & Trainers (20%): This profession dominates the city’s economy, as Steeds Crossing is known for producing the finest warhorses in all of Yohir.
  • Soldiers & Ashguard Riders (15%): A significant portion of the population is tied to the defense of the city, either as standing soldiers or elite Ashguard Riders, the city’s mounted cavalry.
  • Traders & Merchants (25%): With Steeds Crossing sitting at a crossroads, trade is essential. Merchants bring goods from Mera and other distant lands, while traders help move Yohirin goods across the continent.
  • Artisans & Blacksmiths (15%): Essential to maintaining the city’s defense and economy, artisans produce tools, armor, and weapons, while blacksmiths ensure the horses and soldiers alike are properly equipped.
  • Farmers & Fishermen (10%): Along the fertile banks of the Thornskald River, farmers grow crops and raise livestock, while fishermen harvest the river's bounty to sustain the city.
  • Laborers (10%): Unskilled workers who provide essential services, including construction, stable work, and maintenance, particularly for the city's ever-growing walls and infrastructure.
  • Others (5%): This category includes various specialized roles like alchemists, scholars, and entertainers who fill niche needs within the city.
 

Social Roles

  • Council of Horsemasters: The ruling elite of Steeds Crossing, this council is made up of the most powerful and influential horse-breeding families. They govern all major decisions, from trade policy to military defense.
  • Ashguard Riders: The city's elite cavalry, trained to protect Steeds Crossing and patrol the dangerous Trail of Ash. Revered as heroes, their loyalty lies with the High Rider.
  • Merchant Guilds: Traders and artisans form powerful guilds that control commerce within the city, influencing both wealth and politics.
  • Commonfolk: The working population, including soldiers, farmers, and stablehands, form the backbone of the city’s labor and live under the guidance of the elite and council.

Government

High Rider: Thalon Ashmar

The High Rider is the highest authority in Steeds Crossing, responsible for military command, external diplomacy, and overall governance. Thalon Ashmar leads the Ashguard Riders and represents the city in dealings with neighboring territories like Mera and the border settlements.  

Master of Trade: Seren Aithen

Seren Aithen controls all trade within Steeds Crossing, overseeing tariffs, merchant licenses, and tax collection on goods traveling through the Trail of Ash and along the Thornskald River. She also negotiates trade agreements with foreign merchants and ensures the smooth operation of the city's markets.  

Warden of the Wall: Odrin Fellharn

Odrin oversees the city's defense, managing the construction and maintenance of the timber walls, organizing militia forces, and leading the standing army when the Ashguard Riders are away. He ensures that the city's fortifications remain strong against external threats.  

Master Breeder: Vaelwyn Karros

Vaelwyn leads the city's horse-breeding operations, ensuring the quality of the Steedborn warhorses. He regulates horse training, breeding stock, and trade, maintaining the city's reputation as the best supplier of warhorses in Yohir.  

Keeper of Laws: Eldra Rens

Eldra Rens serves as the chief arbiter of law in the Riders' Court, ensuring that the city’s strict legal code is followed. She handles disputes, crime, and punishments, and has final authority in sentencing criminals, including overseeing trials for horse theft—a crime punishable by exile or death.

Defences

The defenses of Steeds Crossing are formidable, forged from centuries of vigilance against threats from the Ashlands, and embody the city’s martial heritage and strategic importance. The city’s fortifications are designed to repel both Dragonborn invasions and the dangers of the wild Cragspire foothills.  

1. The Timber Wall

The most striking feature of Steeds Crossing is its massive timber wall, a dark, imposing barrier that surrounds the entire city. Built from towering oak logs harvested from the nearby forests, the wall stands nearly 40 feet high and is reinforced with iron bands to withstand attacks. Over time, the walls have been further fortified with stone buttresses at key points. The outer surface is blackened from ancient battles, including the infamous Redscale Siege, where Dragonborn fire once scorched the defenses. This wall is equipped with guard towers every few hundred feet, each manned with archers, crossbowmen, and watchmen keeping a constant vigil.  

2. The Gatehouses

Steeds Crossing has two major gates: the Ashgate to the east and the Riversgate to the south. These gatehouses are reinforced fortresses in their own right, built from thick timber and stone, equipped with iron portcullises and drawbridges. The Ashgate, the primary entrance facing the Ashlands, is especially fortified, with a double-gate system where attackers can be trapped between two gates in a killing zone. Boiling oil and arrow slits allow defenders to pour death down on invaders. Odrin Fellharn, the Warden of the Wall, ensures the gatehouses are always heavily guarded and in top condition.  

3. The Watchtowers

The watchtowers that line the timber wall provide crucial defense points for the city. Each tower is connected to the wall via wooden walkways, allowing patrolling guards to move swiftly between them. These towers are equipped with signal fires to communicate across long distances, and their elevated positions give archers the advantage over approaching enemies. In times of danger, they also act as command posts, where captains direct defense operations.  

4. Ashguard Barracks

The city's elite cavalry, the Ashguard Riders, form the core of Steeds Crossing's defense. Their barracks, located in the Ashgate District, are not only a training ground but also a defensive stronghold in their own right. The Ashguard are known for their swift, brutal strikes against invaders. In times of siege, they launch lightning-fast counterattacks from hidden gates, harrying enemies before they can breach the walls. Trained to ride in even the harshest terrain of the Cragspire foothills, the Ashguard are the first responders to any threat from the east.  

5. The River Watch

Steeds Crossing’s southern flank is protected by the Thornskald River, a natural barrier that adds to the city's defenses. However, the River Watch, a specialized detachment of soldiers, is tasked with guarding the riverside from potential raids by boat. Several small watchtowers and barricades line the river’s banks, and the Riversgate is equipped with heavy chains and spiked barriers that can be raised to prevent hostile ships from sailing upriver.  

6. Mounted Patrols

To complement the static defenses, Steeds Crossing employs regular mounted patrols that ride the Trail of Ash and scout the surrounding wilderness. These patrols, typically made up of seasoned Ashguard Riders, ensure no threats can gather forces undetected. They also serve as the city’s first line of defense, often engaging in skirmishes or giving advance warning of approaching invaders, be they Dragonborn warbands or bandits from the wilds.  

7. The Citadel of the High Rider

In the heart of Steeds Crossing lies the Citadel of the High Rider, a stone fortress that serves as the ultimate stronghold in times of siege. Here, Thalon Ashmar, the High Rider, commands the city’s defenses. The citadel is heavily fortified, with thick walls and a central tower that can house a portion of the city’s population if the outer defenses are breached. Secret escape tunnels lead from the citadel to strategic points outside the city, ensuring that Steeds Crossing's leadership can survive and regroup in the event of a prolonged siege.  

8. Ballistae and Siege Weapons

Along the walls, particularly near the Ashgate, several ballistae and catapults have been installed. These large siege weapons are designed to repel larger threats, including potential Dragonborn war machines or flying beasts. The ballistae fire massive bolts capable of piercing heavy armor or the tough scales of a dragon. The city's smithies regularly maintain and upgrade these weapons, ensuring they are always battle-ready.  

9. The Inner Moat

Inside the city’s walls, near the eastern gate, is a shallow inner moat, which can be flooded in times of siege to slow down attackers who manage to breach the outer wall. This moat doubles as a drainage system in peacetime but is part of a layered defense strategy to protect key areas like the Ashguard Barracks and the main gate.

Industry & Trade

Steeds Crossing thrives due to a robust and diverse economy that leverages its strategic location, renowned horse culture, and access to vital trade routes. The settlement stays afloat through a combination of industries centered around horse breeding, trade, and manufacturing, all of which contribute to its growing wealth and regional influence.  

Main Economic Pillars

  1. Horse Breeding and Equestrian Trade The city’s identity is deeply rooted in its horse culture, and this industry is the backbone of Steeds Crossing’s economy. The breeding of warhorses and riding steeds is the city’s most prized export. Families have perfected the art of breeding strong, swift, and resilient horses that are highly sought after across Shadowmarch. Warhorses from Steeds Crossing are favored by knights, military commanders, and even mercenary bands due to their unparalleled endurance and training. The Annual Horse Market Fair draws buyers from far and wide, and wealthy traders pay high sums for the city’s famous steeds.
  2. Trade and River Commerce Situated along the Thornskald River and the Trail of Ash, Steeds Crossing serves as a key trade hub between Yohir, Mera, and the more distant lands of Shadowmarch. The city’s economy benefits from its role as a middle point for merchants moving goods along these routes. Barge companies operate along the river, transporting goods like timber, furs, grain, and exotic items from Mera. The city imposes tolls on traders using the river and the Trail of Ash, which adds a steady flow of income to its coffers.
  3. Crafting and Manufacturing To support the city’s military and equestrian focus, crafting and smithing are vital industries. The Saddle Rows district is known for its workshops that produce high-quality saddles, armor, and weapons for both horses and riders. Thornskald Forge is a prominent business, specializing in the crafting of reinforced horse armor, which is exported alongside the warhorses. The city's blacksmiths also supply weaponry and tack for military forces, mercenaries, and traders passing through the city. Leatherworking and fletching are other key industries, creating essential goods like bridles, reins, quivers, and arrows.
  4. Agriculture and Livestock Though the city is not known for large-scale farming, The Steadings district on the outskirts provides local food production. Farmers grow crops along the fertile banks of the Thornskald River, such as grain, barley, and vegetables, which help sustain the city’s population. Additionally, herds of sheep, goats, and cattle graze in the surrounding countryside, providing meat and leather for local use. The grazing of horses on common land is also crucial, ensuring that the city’s prized warhorses are well-fed and healthy.
 

Most Important Exports

  1. Warhorses: The city’s most valuable and famous export, bred and trained for endurance, speed, and combat.
  2. Horse Armor and Equestrian Gear: Custom-crafted saddles, bridles, and armor are exported to other cities and kingdoms.
  3. Weapons and Armor: Produced by the city’s forges, weapons for mounted combat and standard military arms are traded widely.
  4. Leather Goods: Leather saddles, harnesses, and protective gear crafted from the city’s livestock are also key exports.
 

Most Important Imports

  1. Grain and Foodstuffs: While the city produces some food, it must import large quantities of grain and other food supplies, especially during harsh winters when local farming slows down. Mera is a key trading partner for these goods.
  2. Timber and Stone: Though timber is harvested locally for basic needs, finer woods for high-quality horse equipment and stone for city repairs are imported from the north or other regions.
  3. Exotic Goods: Traders bring luxury items, such as spices, silks, and precious metals, from Mera and beyond, which are highly valued by the city's wealthier inhabitants.
  4. Magic Components: With the rise of arcane mountsmiths, there is a growing demand for magical reagents and rare materials that are imported to fuel the city’s small but influential arcane market.
 

Other Key Professions

  1. Merchants and Traders: Merchants make a living by buying and selling goods moving through the city, both from distant lands and local sources. Many operate out of the Riders’ Quarter and Thornskald Docks, where they run small shops and market stalls.
  2. Stablehands and Horse Trainers: A large portion of the population works in the care and training of horses. Stablehands maintain the vast stables in the city, while trainers ensure that the warhorses are disciplined for combat and endurance.
  3. Soldiers and Riders: A significant part of the population serves in the military, particularly within the Ashguard Riders. Many young men and women of Steeds Crossing aspire to join this elite cavalry force, either to defend the city or serve as mercenaries abroad.
  4. Craftsmen and Artisans: Blacksmiths, leatherworkers, and fletchers form the city’s essential artisan class, producing the tools, armor, and equipment necessary for both horse care and war.
 

Economic Challenges

Though Steeds Crossing prospers, it faces challenges. Harsh winters can hinder local agriculture, forcing reliance on imported foodstuffs. The constant threat from the Ashlands requires significant resources to maintain the city's defenses and military readiness. The city’s dependence on the warhorse trade also means that any disruption in regional stability could affect demand for its horses and related goods.   Despite these obstacles, the entrepreneurial spirit of Steeds Crossing ensures it continues to grow, trading its world-renowned warhorses and equestrian equipment while maintaining its position as a crucial trade hub on the continent of Shadowmarch.

Districts

The city of Steeds Crossing is organized into several distinct districts, each reflecting a different aspect of its culture, economy, and history. These districts are interconnected by wide, dirt roads bustling with riders, merchants, and soldiers, all contributing to the unique character of the city.  

1. Highhoof Ward (Noble and Elite District)

This is the wealthiest part of the city, where the Council of Horsemasters and other influential families reside. Highhoof Ward is located near the heart of Steeds Crossing, surrounded by tall, imposing timber estates. The grandest homes boast private stables, vast courtyards, and training grounds where elite horses are bred and trained. The Riders’ Hall, where the council meets, is located here—an imposing stone building with banners of the city’s founding families. The Ironspur Academy, the prestigious cavalry school, also operates within this district.  

2. Ashgate (Military District)

Ashgate, positioned closest to the Cragspire foothills and the entrance to the Trail of Ash, serves as the city’s military hub. This district houses the Ashguard Barracks, the headquarters for the elite mounted cavalry, and is where Steeds Crossing’s soldiers are trained and stationed. The district also includes armories, stables for warhorses, and the Warden's Keep, where the city's defense strategies are developed and where Odrin Fellharn, the Warden of the Wall, oversees the city’s defenses. Ashgate has a grim, practical atmosphere, with its streets often filled with patrolling soldiers and mounted riders preparing for potential threats.  

3. Thornskald Docks (Trade and River District)

Situated along the southern edge of Steeds Crossing, the Thornskald Docks stretch along the banks of the Thornskald River. This bustling district is the heart of trade, where barges unload goods from neighboring regions like Mera. Merchants and traders fill the streets, selling everything from exotic goods to horse-related products. Greycurrent Traders operates here, moving goods between Steeds Crossing and distant cities. The district is lively, with the scent of river fish, the sound of haggling merchants, and the clang of smithies forging weapons and gear for travelers. It is also home to the Horse Market Fairgrounds, where the city’s famous horse fairs and auctions are held annually.  

4. The Saddle Rows (Craftsman and Equestrian District)

This district serves as the city’s industrial heart, where blacksmiths, leatherworkers, and fletchers labor to produce high-quality equipment for the city’s horses and riders. The Saddle Rows is known for its many smithies, which produce the finest armor and gear for both horses and riders. Shops like the Thornskald Forge create custom armor, saddles, and weapons. The district also has specialized workshops where horseshoes, bridles, and reins are crafted. Stables line the streets, and the scent of leather and iron fills the air. Many skilled artisans work here, supplying Steeds Crossing with the equipment needed for both war and trade.  

5. The Steadings (Commonfolk and Farming District)

Located on the outskirts of the city, The Steadings is home to the working class—farmers, stablehands, and laborers who keep the city’s vital functions running. This district is primarily agricultural, with communal grazing lands, smaller stables, and modest wooden homes. Farmers grow crops along the fertile banks of the Thornskald River, providing food for the city. Many families here also breed lesser horses for labor and trade. The atmosphere is hardworking but rough, with the commonfolk living more modestly than their counterparts in the city’s wealthier districts.  

6. Ironveil Hollow (Arcane and Mystic District)

A relatively small but growing district, Ironveil Hollow is home to arcane mountsmiths and magic users who specialize in enchanting steeds. Though magic is rare in Steeds Crossing, some entrepreneurial wizards and arcanists have set up shop here, using their skills to create arcane-infused horses for the wealthy elite. The district has an otherworldly feel, with strange lights glowing from windows and the air thick with the scent of burning herbs and magical reagents. Scholars and enchanters work in hidden workshops, experimenting with blending magic and horses, while potion sellers and fortune-tellers offer their services to curious passersby.  

7. The Riders' Quarter (Market and Tavern District)

This lively district caters to travelers, soldiers, and merchants alike. The Riders’ Rest, the city’s largest tavern and inn, is the centerpiece, offering food, lodging, and stables for horses. Many smaller inns, taverns, and open markets line the streets, where goods from across Shadowmarch are traded. Street vendors sell tack, weapons, exotic foods, and ale, while horse traders gather to make deals. This district is constantly buzzing with activity, as riders and traders from distant lands stop here before continuing their journey along the Trail of Ash or into the Cragspire Mountains.  

8. The Old Crossing (Historic District)

This district lies at the original heart of the city, where the first outpost was built centuries ago to guard against Dragonborn invasions. The Blackened Stockade, the remnants of the original wooden fortification, still stands as a memorial. Though the Old Crossing is now a quieter area, with narrow streets and older buildings, it remains a place of deep reverence for the people of Steeds Crossing. Eldra Rens, the Keeper of Laws, holds court here in the Old Guardhouse, where justice is dispensed for crimes within the city.

Guilds and Factions

The politics and financial development of Steeds Crossing are shaped by a network of powerful factions, each representing different interests within the city. These organizations, from ancient families with deep roots in horse breeding to influential guilds and military orders, all play a role in steering the direction of the city’s growth and stability. The balance of power among these factions ensures that Steeds Crossing remains both a thriving trade hub and a militaristic stronghold on the edge of the Ashlands.  

1. Council of Horsemasters (The Elite Ruling Class)

At the heart of Steeds Crossing’s politics is the Council of Horsemasters, an oligarchic body comprised of the city’s wealthiest and most powerful horse-breeding families. These families control the breeding and sale of the city's prized warhorses, which form the foundation of its economy. The Ashmar, Karros, and Aithen families are the most prominent members of this council, and they influence all major decisions, from trade agreements to military strategies.   Thalon Ashmar, the current High Rider, leads the council and holds supreme authority over the city's defense and external relations. The Council of Horsemasters controls not only the financial success of the warhorse industry but also oversees land distribution, laws related to trade, and taxation. The council is deeply invested in maintaining the city’s military readiness, as their wealth and power depend on Steeds Crossing remaining both prosperous and defensible. However, internal rivalries among the families occasionally surface, with each vying for greater control over the city’s resources.  

2. Ashguard Riders (Military Elite)

The Ashguard Riders represent the city’s elite cavalry force, and they exert considerable influence over both politics and the city’s financial resources. Though technically under the command of the High Rider, the Ashguard often act independently when it comes to military matters. Odrin Fellharn, the Warden of the Wall, leads the Ashguard and maintains the city’s formidable defenses.   The Ashguard are not just a military force; they serve as a political faction due to their significant presence in Steeds Crossing’s daily life. Their members, often drawn from the nobility, hold considerable sway over city policies related to security, patrols, and law enforcement. The Ashguard are instrumental in protecting the city’s economic interests, such as the warhorse trade and the safety of merchants along the Trail of Ash and Thornskald River. Their loyalty is to the defense of Steeds Crossing, but they sometimes clash with the Council of Horsemasters over resources and funding, particularly when military matters are prioritized over trade.  

3. Merchants' Guild (Trade and Commerce)

The Merchants’ Guild is a powerful force in Steeds Crossing, representing traders, artisans, and business owners who rely on the city’s role as a hub for commerce along the Thornskald River and Trail of Ash. The guild is led by Seren Aithen, a member of the Horsemasters' council, who straddles the line between nobility and commerce.   This faction controls all aspects of trade within the city, setting tariffs, negotiating trade deals with distant lands like Mera, and organizing the Annual Horse Market Fair. Their influence ensures that trade remains a central pillar of the city’s economy. They push for policies that open more trade routes and reduce tolls, often advocating for investment in river infrastructure and protection for merchant caravans. However, they sometimes face opposition from the Ashguard Riders, who prioritize defense spending over trade improvements. The Merchants' Guild also represents the city's artisan class, including blacksmiths, leatherworkers, and fletchers, whose craft supports both the local economy and the warhorse trade. They are an essential counterbalance to the Council of Horsemasters, ensuring that the needs of commerce are not overlooked in favor of military or noble interests.  

4. Ironspur Academy (Cavalry Training and Martial Discipline)

The Ironspur Academy is the most prestigious equestrian and cavalry training school in Steeds Crossing. Though it operates independently, the academy’s alumni often go on to serve in the Ashguard Riders or act as elite trainers for noble families across Shadowmarch.   The academy’s Headmaster, Dorin Valmark, is a seasoned warrior and strategist who holds significant influence over the city’s military policies. Valmark and the academy emphasize the importance of martial skill and cavalry tactics in maintaining Steeds Crossing’s security. The Ironspur Academy is a close ally of the Ashguard Riders, but their focus on producing highly trained cavalry makes them a semi-independent faction. They occasionally challenge the council's decisions if they believe the city’s martial discipline is being neglected in favor of trade or politics. The academy’s influence extends beyond Steeds Crossing, as it attracts students from all over Shadowmarch and beyond, bolstering the city's reputation as the center of equestrian warfare.  

5. Greycurrent Traders (Barge and River Trade Consortium)

The Greycurrent Traders dominate the river trade in Steeds Crossing, specializing in transporting goods along the Thornskald River. Led by the Corvan Brothers, this faction controls most of the barge traffic and is a major player in the city’s import-export business.   They are responsible for importing vital goods like grain, stone, and luxury items, while also exporting Steeds Crossing’s warhorses and equestrian equipment. The Greycurrent Traders lobby for increased investment in river defenses and the improvement of docks, as they view the Thornskald River as the city’s lifeline to distant markets. The Greycurrent Traders often align with the Merchants' Guild, but they focus specifically on river-based commerce, giving them a distinct sphere of influence. Their success is tied directly to the city's ability to maintain safe and open waterways.  

6. The Guild of Arcane Mountsmiths (Magical Enchanters and Arcane Innovators)

A small but influential faction, the Guild of Arcane Mountsmiths specializes in the rare art of enchanting warhorses with magical abilities. Based in the Ironveil Hollow district, this guild is led by the enigmatic Varric Emers, an arcanist who is pushing the boundaries of how magic can be used to enhance Steeds Crossing’s military edge.   The guild’s enchanted horses are extremely valuable, sold to wealthy nobles and military leaders for significant sums. This has made the guild a rising financial power in the city. Though they are relatively new, the Arcane Mountsmiths wield growing influence in city politics, particularly through their close ties with elite military units like the Ashguard Riders, who are eager to use their magical steeds. The Guild of Arcane Mountsmiths is viewed with some suspicion by traditionalists in the city, especially among the Council of Horsemasters, who believe magic undermines the purity of Steeds Crossing’s horse-breeding traditions.  

7. The Riders' Rest Consortium (Hospitality and Service Industry)

The Riders’ Rest Consortium is a group of innkeepers, tavern owners, and service providers who cater to the steady flow of travelers, merchants, and soldiers passing through Steeds Crossing. The Riders’ Rest, the largest inn in the city, is the heart of this faction, and its owner, Harrik Stonehull, is a savvy businessman who knows how to leverage his establishment’s central role in the city’s economy.   This faction’s primary goal is to ensure that hospitality remains a profitable and growing sector, advocating for more support for businesses catering to travelers and tourists. They are an important part of the city’s social fabric, providing services to everyone from foreign traders to soldiers stationed at the city gates. In doing so, they maintain a strong network of contacts with other factions. Though not a military or economic powerhouse, the Riders’ Rest Consortium holds sway through its control of the city's main meeting places, influencing public opinion and acting as informal mediators between the larger factions.

History

1. The Founding of Steeds Crossing (3757 AoU)

Founded 1013 years ago, in 3757 AoU, Steeds Crossing was initially established as a military outpost overlooking the Pass of Elthoril. This strategic location served as a critical defense point following the Dragonborn Uprising of 3747 AoU, where the enslaved Dragonborn of Yohir and Mera rose against their masters. In 3749 AoU, the Dragonborn marched from the City of Whitecliff in Mera to their homeland in the northwest back to Yohir, devastating everything in their path, a trail of destruction that would later be called the Trail of Ash. The Yohirin Army, led by General Eraxan Brightmane, was defeated at the Pass of Elthoril in a battle that marked the Yohirin's loss of control over the southern lands. By 3751 AoU, the Dragonborn claimed the Dry Sea, renaming it the Ashlands. Steeds Crossing was founded to prevent further Dragonborn incursions and to defend the fertile plains of Yohir from any future threats emerging from the Ashlands. Initially, the settlement was little more than a wooden fort with a small garrison of soldiers tasked with keeping watch over the pass.  

2. Growth into a Trade and Equestrian Hub (3900–4700 AoU)

Following the stabilization of relations with the Dragonborn and the decrease in immediate military threats, Steeds Crossing began to evolve from a simple outpost into a more permanent settlement. Its location along the Trail of Ash made it a key point for merchants traveling between the Kingdom of Mera and northern Yohir. The fertile banks of the Thornskald River allowed for modest agriculture, but the real economic growth came from the settlement's horse culture. By the mid-4000s AoU, Steeds Crossing had become renowned for breeding warhorses, which were highly valued across Yohir and beyond. The town’s expertise in horse breeding, training, and mounted combat led to the creation of the Ashguard Riders, an elite cavalry force tasked with patrolling the region and defending the settlement. The Council of Horsemasters—a governing body formed by the most influential horse-breeding families—took control of the settlement, shaping it into a center for equestrian trade and military power. The annual Horse Market Fair, established around 4300 AoU, attracted buyers from across Shadowmarch, boosting Steeds Crossing's reputation as the premier provider of warhorses and cavalry equipment. The city's economy flourished, and its military importance grew as a result of the Ashguard Riders, who were recognized as one of the most formidable mounted forces in the region.  

3. The Infamous Redscale Siege (4721 AoU)

In 4721 AoU, the city faced its greatest military challenge since its founding in what became known as the Redscale Siege. This conflict was triggered by a resurgence of Dragonborn aggression after centuries of relative peace. A faction of Dragonborn, the Redscale Warband, sought to reclaim the lands north of the Ashlands, viewing Steeds Crossing as a critical foothold. The warband was led by the brutal warlord Akranthar Bloodfire, who launched a surprise invasion with the intent of breaking through the Pass of Elthoril and reclaiming southern Yohir. The siege lasted for weeks, as Dragonborn forces attempted to breach the city’s timber walls. The Ashguard Riders, led by Warden Odrin Fellharn, defended the city fiercely, employing lightning-fast cavalry raids to harry the attackers and disrupt their siege weapons. The city’s defenses, reinforced by the massive timber walls and watchtowers, held strong despite numerous assaults. The turning point came when a detachment of the Ashguard launched a daring counterattack during a Dragonborn attempt to set fire to the gates, breaking the siege and forcing the Redscale Warband to retreat. The Redscale Siege left deep scars on Steeds Crossing, both physically and emotionally. Many of the city’s walls were scorched by Dragonborn fire, and the losses were heavy. However, the city's successful defense solidified its reputation as an unbreakable bastion on the southern frontier. In the aftermath, the Council of Horsemasters and the Ashguard Riders were praised for their leadership, and the city invested heavily in further fortifications and military training.  

4. Post-Siege Prosperity and Tensions (4721–4770 AoU)

In the years following the Redscale Siege, Steeds Crossing entered a period of reconstruction and prosperity. The city's economy continued to thrive on its warhorse trade, and its reputation as a center of military power grew. The Council of Horsemasters remained the ruling authority, overseeing both the city's economic affairs and military readiness. However, new tensions began to emerge within the city. The Merchants' Guild, which represented traders and artisans, grew increasingly powerful and demanded more influence in city governance. The guild advocated for expanding trade beyond horses and military supplies, pushing for investments in river trade and new infrastructure projects, such as the improvement of the Thornskald Docks. The Guild of Arcane Mountsmiths also emerged during this time, introducing magically-enhanced horses into the city’s cavalry and trade market. Traditionalists within the Council of Horsemasters viewed this with suspicion, believing it could undermine the purity of their centuries-old breeding techniques, while others saw it as a way to further enhance Steeds Crossing's power and reputation. By 4770 AoU, Steeds Crossing stands as a prosperous, militarily fortified city, ever-watchful of the Dragonborn in the Ashlands. The Ashguard Riders continue to patrol the Trail of Ash, and the city’s defenses are stronger than ever. The scars of the Redscale Siege remain etched into its walls, a constant reminder of the dangers that lie to the south, but the city’s resolve and strength are as unyielding as ever.

Tourism

  1. Riders’ Hall

     
    • Description: The seat of the Council of Horsemasters, where all major political and military decisions are made. The hall is a grand timber structure adorned with banners of the founding families and historical artifacts from the city’s military past.
    • Owner/Contact: Thalon Ashmar, the High Rider and leader of the Council.

  2. Ashguard Barracks

     
    • Description: Home of the Ashguard Riders, the elite cavalry force that defends Steeds Crossing. The barracks include training grounds, stables, and armories for the city’s mounted troops.
    • Owner/Contact: Odrin Fellharn, the Warden of the Wall and commander of the Ashguard Riders.

  3. Ironspur Academy

     
    • Description: The most prestigious cavalry training school in Yohir, specializing in mounted combat and horse care. The academy trains not only the Ashguard but also riders from across Shadowmarch.
    • Owner/Contact: Dorin Valmark, the headmaster and seasoned cavalry veteran.

  4. Thornskald Docks

     
    • Description: The city’s bustling river docks along the Thornskald River, where goods and horses are shipped in and out of Steeds Crossing. This is a key hub for trade with neighboring lands.
    • Owner/Contact: Greycurrent Traders, led by the Corvan Brothers, influential in river trade.

  5. The Horse Market Fairgrounds

     
    • Description: The sprawling grounds where the Annual Horse Market Fair is held, showcasing the finest warhorses in Yohir. The event draws buyers and traders from across the continent.
    • Owner/Contact: Seren Aithen, the Master of Trade and organizer of the fair.

  6. Thornskald Forge

     
    • Description: A renowned blacksmithing establishment known for producing high-quality horse armor, saddles, and weapons. The forge plays a vital role in outfitting both the Ashguard and warhorses.
    • Owner/Contact: Vaelwyn Karros, Master Breeder and one of the city’s leading horsemasters.

  7. The Riders’ Rest Tavern & Inn

     
    • Description: The largest and most popular inn in Steeds Crossing, catering to travelers, merchants, and soldiers. It provides stabling services, food, and entertainment.
    • Owner/Contact: Harrik Stonehull, the savvy innkeeper known for his connections with traders and military personnel.
  8.  

    The Blackened Stockade

       
    • Description: The remnants of the original wooden fortification from the early days of Steeds Crossing, now preserved as a historic site. It serves as a reminder of the Redscale Siege and the city’s military past.
    • Owner/Contact: Managed by the city, often visited by tourists and historians. Eldra Rens, the Keeper of Laws, oversees its preservation.

  9. Ironveil Hollow

     
    • Description: A small district dedicated to the city’s arcane mountsmiths, who specialize in enchanting warhorses with magical enhancements.
    • Owner/Contact: Varric Emers, a leading arcanist and innovator in magical horse enhancements.

Architecture

The architecture of Steeds Crossing reflects its rugged, militaristic origins and its deep-rooted connection to horses and the land. Built primarily from timber harvested from the nearby forests along the Thornskald River, the city’s structures are solid, functional, and designed to withstand both the elements and potential attacks.  

Walls and Fortifications

The city is encircled by massive, towering timber walls, reinforced with iron bands and stone buttresses. These walls are weathered and scarred, with visible signs of ancient battles, particularly from the Redscale Siege. Guard towers rise at regular intervals along the walls, providing watchful sentinels with clear views of the Cragspire Mountains and the Trail of Ash.  

City Layout

The city is divided into practical districts, with wide, dirt streets designed to accommodate mounted riders. Stables and horse-training arenas dominate the layout, reflecting the importance of horses in the city's life. Many homes, even those of commoners, feature attached communal stables, and the elite estates of the Council of Horsemasters are centered around expansive courtyards designed for equestrian training and displays.  

Building Materials and Style

Buildings are primarily constructed from oak and pine, with thick beams and steeply pitched roofs designed to shed rain and snow from the nearby mountains. Iron fittings and stone accents reinforce structures, lending a martial, fortress-like feel to even civilian buildings. Homes and businesses are built low to the ground with wide entrances, allowing horses to move in and out freely. Structures like the Riders’ Hall and Ironspur Academy are large, imposing, and adorned with banners depicting the city’s noble families and military achievements.
Founders
Type
City
Population
15,000
Inhabitant Demonym
Steedborn
Included Locations
Ruling/Owning Rank
High Rider
Owning Organization
Dominion of Yohir
Characters in Location
Article template
Settlement
World
Geldora
Category
Locations
Author
DmMarax
Publication Date
24 Sep, 2024
Creation Date
24 Sep, 2024
Last Update Date
3 Oct, 2024
Visibility
Public
Views
48
Favorites
Comments
0

Find your way!

Resources

WHO WE ARE

LEGAL

Get the news

Our Shop

Development

EVENTS

REACHING OUT

A BIG THANK YOU

To all our Our Patrons for their unwavering love and support.

For the amazing images. His Titanship Christopher Dravus of Ironrise Games, Our Revered Deity Basic Dragon / Rin & His Majesty Caeora