Alderbrook - Town
Alderbrook is a motte and bailey castle within The West Forest, Kingdom of Alderia and serves as the capital of The warlord faction Alderbrook.
Demographics
Alderbrook hosts an estimated population of 80–150 residents, primarily Alderian settlers. Most inhabitants are farmers, labourers, woodcutters, and craftspeople supporting the needs of the fortified settlement. A small minority consist of militia families and retainers in service to Lord Brackenridge. Wealth and authority are highly concentrated in the hands of the local lord and his appointed retainers, with most commoners living at subsistence level.
Government
Alderbrook operates as a militarised personal fiefdom under the sole authority of Lord Brackenridge. Governance is informal and centred on feudal command. There is no formal civic administration beyond the lord’s appointed officers. Decisions regarding law, taxation, and land usage are issued directly from the lord or his retainers. Obedience and loyalty form the core of the settlement’s governing structure.
Defences
Alderbrook is protected by a motte-and-bailey fortification consisting of:
Timber palisade wall with gatehouse
Earthen ramparts and ditch
Elevated motte topped with a wooden keep
Permanent garrison of 18 foot soldiers manning the outer walls
Watchpoints and limited defensive equipment such as carts and barricades for emergency reinforcement
The defensive layout prioritises early warning and delaying hostile forces rather than long-term siege resistance.
History
Alderbrook originated as a frontier outpost in the West Forest before developing into a fortified holding during a period of weakened royal oversight. Lord Brackenridge consolidated control over the site, raised a levy force, and established the settlement as his primary seat. It has since functioned as a semi-autonomous stronghold, maintaining its independence through local resource control and military presence.
Points of interest
Alderbrook’s economy is based on timber harvesting, hunting, agriculture, and limited trade with travellers. Supporting structures include:
The Outer Walls — primary defensive perimeter
The Purring Panther Tavern — two-storey tavern near the gate, functioning as a social and trading hub
Marketplace
Founding Date
Era of Enchantment
Founders
Population
100
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
Comments