Direshore
Direshore is a fortified coastal town in the southeastern part of Nunca, constantly on guard against raids from orcs to the east and pirates from the Shrieking Sea. Its 3,000 resilient inhabitants are skilled in combat, having built strong defenses and a self-sufficient community. Governed by a leader from Hollow Lake, often seen as a punishment post, the town faces hardships from both external threats and strained leadership. Despite its isolation and lack of royal support, Direshore thrives on its fishing industry, skilled blacksmiths, and a deep-rooted sense of survival and strength.
Demographics
Primarily humans, with a small number of half-elves and dwarves who assist in fortification efforts. The population is largely composed of warriors, sailors, and craftspeople who have adapted to a life of constant vigilance.
Government
Direshore is governed by a leader sent from Hollow Lake, appointed by the king to oversee the town. However, this position is viewed as a punishment, as Direshore is seen as a dangerous and undesirable posting. The appointed leader often comes from a lavish lifestyle in Hollow Lake and finds Direshore's harsh conditions intolerable. Their presence is typically resented by the townsfolk, as they make the people’s lives harder in an effort to assert authority. Leaders are frequently replaced after being killed in orc raids, with new appointees arriving, each less suited to the environment than the last.
Defences
Direshore is known for its strong fortifications, including high stone walls, watchtowers, and defensive traps set throughout the town. Ballistae and catapults are positioned along the walls, ready to fend off attackers from both land and sea. The Shrieking Sea provides a natural defense against large-scale invasions, though pirates remain a constant threat.
Industry & Trade
The town’s primary industries are fishing and weapon crafting. Fish is exported to nearby towns, and Direshore’s blacksmiths are known for producing durable weapons and armor. Although the town is self-sufficient, limited trade occurs with traveling merchants who brave the dangerous roads or sea routes.
Infrastructure
The town is heavily fortified with a series of thick stone walls and watchtowers overlooking the Shrieking Sea and its borders with Steerbright. Every building in Direshore is built to withstand siege and attack, with many homes doubling as barracks or armories. Direshore’s harbor is modest, but it is well-defended, with spiked barriers to prevent enemy ships from entering. Roads are worn but functional, designed more for defense than trade.
Districts
- Fortress Quarter: Where the appointed leader resides, surrounded by the town’s most secure fortifications. The area also includes barracks for the town’s defenders.
- The Docks: A small harbor protected by spiked barriers to prevent pirate ships from entering. Fishing boats and a few small warships are stationed here.
- Western Wall: The western edge of the town, bordering Steerbright, is constantly patrolled by soldiers on the lookout for orc raiders.
Assets
Direshore’s main asset is its resilient population, trained as natural-born fighters. Additionally, the town relies heavily on its fishing industry to sustain itself, and the stone quarries surrounding the town provide resources for fortifications and trade. The town also has a small but skilled group of blacksmiths who produce weapons and armor.
Guilds and Factions
- The Iron Tide: A loose group of warriors and sailors who defend Direshore’s shores from pirates and orcs.
- The Silent Anvil: A small but skilled guild of blacksmiths and armorers who provide the town with weapons and defenses.
History
Founded in 755 BGW, Direshore has always served as a defensive outpost for the kingdom of Nunca. Over the centuries, it has withstood countless pirate raids and orc attacks, forging a resilient and self-sufficient population. Despite the town’s importance as a border defense, it has largely been ignored by the royal court of Hollow Lake, with its leaders often sent there as punishment. The people of Direshore have grown accustomed to fending for themselves, their spirit unbroken by years of hardship.
Points of interest
- The Fortress: The seat of the appointed leader, this heavily fortified structure serves as both a residence and military command post.
- The Shattered Docks: The town’s small harbor, known for its defensive barriers, is the lifeblood of the fishing industry.
- The Eastern Wall: Heavily fortified and constantly patrolled, this wall overlooks Steerbright, where orc raiders frequently attempt to breach the town’s defenses.
Architecture
The town’s architecture is rugged and functional, with stone buildings built for defense rather than aesthetics. Homes double as fortifications, and many have underground bunkers. The fortress is the largest structure, built to withstand prolonged sieges. Most buildings are low to the ground, designed to weather the fierce winds from the Shrieking Sea.
Geography
Direshore sits on the southeastern coast of Nunca, perched on cliffs overlooking the Shrieking Sea. To the East, it borders the kingdom of Steerbright, separated by its unforgiving lands and a heavily fortified wall. The surrounding land is rocky and inhospitable, with little space for farming.
Climate
The climate is harsh, with cold winds and frequent storms blowing in from the Shrieking Sea. Winters are long and bitter, while summers are short and cool. Heavy rain is common, and the town often experiences dense fog rolling in from the sea.
Natural Resources
Direshore’s primary resource is its fishery, which sustains both the town and nearby communities. The surrounding stone quarries provide materials for construction and trade, while iron deposits in the mountains are mined for weapon production.
Founding Date
755 BGW
Type
Town
Population
3,000
Owner/Ruler
Additional Rulers/Owners
Owning Organization
