Ashfeld

A once thriving rest port town in Asur Misoa. Reduced to ruins by raids from the Lapis Corsairs. Help from the rest of the empire did not arrive in time to save it. Dwells as a ruin on the northern Eren coast.

Nestled on the rugged coastline of Asur Misoa, the town of Ashfeld was once a bustling rest port for ships navigating the coastal routes or venturing overseas. Known for its sturdy docks, welcoming inns, and thriving trade markets, it was a haven for merchants, sailors, and adventurers alike. However, its prosperity also made it a target for the Lapis Corsairs, raiders drawn to its wealth and strategic position far from the capital of Drekaya.

Ashfeld’s position, while advantageous for trade, left it isolated from the central protections of Drekaya. Its local garrison, though loyal and courageous, was small and poorly equipped to fend off the increasing number of raids by seafaring marauders. The townsfolk fortified their walls and armed themselves, fighting back valiantly each time the raiders came ashore. However, with each attack, Ashfeld’s defenses weakened. The once-proud town began to show signs of wear: charred buildings from previous skirmishes, dwindling supplies, and a population weary of constant fear. As the raids became more frequent and ferocious, the town’s leader, sent a desperate letter to the capital, pleading for reinforcements and supplies. He described the dire situation in Ashfeld, the bravery of his garrison, and the growing likelihood of the town’s fall if aid did not come. But no response arrived. Whether the message was lost, ignored, or delayed remains unknown. Cut off from hope and aid, Ashfeld was left to face its fate alone.

The inevitable came with the largest raid Ashfeld had ever seen. The raiders, emboldened by the town’s isolation and weakening defenses, launched an overwhelming assault. Despite the best efforts of the garrison and the townsfolk, the walls were breached, and chaos consumed the port. Buildings were set ablaze, the once-bustling markets turned into smoldering ruins. Raiders plundered the town, seizing valuables, supplies, and captives to sell into slavery. Families were torn apart, and cries of despair echoed through the streets.

Ashfeld now stands as a charred and broken shell of its former self. The once-thriving docks are deserted, the smell of saltwater mingling with the lingering scent of ash. Some survivors have tried to rebuild, but the town’s isolation and lack of support from the crown make recovery an uphill battle. The ruins of Ashfeld serve as a grim reminder of the legacy of the Corsairs, and whispers of the town’s abandonment have sparked discontent among other coastal settlements. Mariners passing by still speak of Ashfeld.

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The Infamous Raid of Ashfeld

They story told, and told again by people who live along the Waytos Coast is about the Raid of Ashfeld. Once a peaceful and beautiful town, Ashfeld was well known among the Waytos Coast communities. Twenty Years ago, when the Crimson Corsairs first began to plunder in earnest, they targeted the town of Ashfeld. Quietly in the night, the Crimson Corsairs disembarked fighters outside the town, who then surrounded the entrances and exits. At first light, the Corsairs sailed into the harbour causing a panic. They set fires, they captured and killed innocent townsfolk. As the panic spread, people began to flee the town, only to find it surrounded. Many were cut down, or captured at the gates. Such was the devastation that the town was left empty and ruined. An entire town wiped from the map. At the time, many did not understand the difference between the Lapis and Crimson Corsairs, but this event is what led to their infamy.   The Story of Ashfeld has become a common tale amongst the folk of the Waytos Coast, and led to many people along the coast changing how they defend their towns.