Scorchold Bastion
is the central citadel and primary seat of governance for the Kingdom of Dravonell, one of the seven constituent kingdoms of the Realm of Alagor. The bastion serves as both the royal residence and the operational headquarters for Dravonell’s military and logistical operations.
Constructed into the naturally fortified cliffs of the Bleeding Dunes, Scorchhold was originally established as a desert command center during the early consolidation of the Alagorian kingdoms. It has since developed into a multi-tiered military complex, incorporating subterranean chambers, MAV launch bays, command terminals, and personnel barracks.
Purpose / Function
Scorchhold Bastion serves as both the administrative center and primary military command post for the Kingdom of Dravonell. Located deep within the Bleeding Dunes, it oversees resource extraction, regional security, and control of the desert’s oasis networks. Originally constructed as a fortified outpost to protect emerging trade routes, it evolved into a major war-complex and royal residence under House Dravonell.
Alterations
Post-Founding Expansion: Converted the original watchtower into full command quarters and council chambers.
Heatwave Sealing (circa 237 BFE): Reinforced thermal shielding added to living chambers and storage vaults.
Oasis Spire Connection (~5 AFE): Integrated launch pad and comms array linking the bastion to the Oasis Spire Nexus relay network.
Architecture
Design Style: Functional desert fortress with high sandstone walls, compact courtyards, and underground chambers.
Materials: Local sandstone for walls, heat-treated redstone accents, desert granite for structural supports.
Visual Features: Exposed stone with minimal ornamentation. Archways and windows are recessed to reduce sun exposure.
Defenses
Outer Curtain: Thick sandstone wall with narrow slits for arrow and ballista coverage.
Central Keep: Raised inner bailey with reinforced gatehouse and blast-resistant doors.
Guard Towers: Equipped with ballistae and flame barrels for anti-armor defense.
Thermal Locks: Sealed perimeter that closes during sandstorms to shelter the interior.
MAV Platforms: Multiple landing pads for rapid deployment of scouts and resupply craft.
History
Founding: Established during the Draconic Mandate by Verek Dravonell as a defensive encampment in the northern desert.
The Trial of Embers (circa 80 BFE): Withstood a six-month siege by raider bands, emerging largely intact.
Coronation Hall Addition (32 BFE): Converted cavern within the keep into the royal audience hall following the ascension of Queen Savra.
MSTI Tie-In (2 AFE): The Dune Forge Institute was connected, integrating logistics for experimental materials testing and military craft.
Tourism
Visitor Interest: Adventurers, scholars of desert architecture, and Spartan culture enthusiasts.
Attractions:
Thermal Galleries: Viewing platforms cooled naturally despite external heat.
Desert-Strike Training Zones: Shows of drills by the Burning Lance.
Accommodations:
The Bastion Guest Hall: For official guests—simple furnished quarters.
Oasis Dune Inns: Nearby lodgings within sphere of the Oasis Spire Nexus network.
Scorched Market Outpost: Caravan camps offering food, crafts, and desert gear to travelers.
Founding Date
6000 BFE
Type
Castle
Parent Location
Owner
Owning Organization
