Aethelmarch, Fortified Mountain City of the Pirate Kingdom of Kydmarra

Location

Aethelmarch lies at the base of the Heavencap Mountains, strategically nestled in a fertile valley. This location is not only defended by the towering peaks but is also blessed by an immense deposit of gold deep within the mountain's veins. The city sits atop the Golden Hollow, a vast network of goldmines that extends throughout the valley and beneath the city itself, allowing House Rockcram to accumulate unmatched wealth. This proximity to gold has made Aethelmarch a beacon of power, industry, and wealth, where gold fuels military and political ambitions alike.

City Overview

Aethelmarch is a formidable fortress city built from strong stone and iron. Its walls are lined with towering fortifications and watchtowers, giving it a commanding view of the surrounding valley and mountain passes. The true wealth of the city, however, lies beneath the city streets, deep in the veins of the Golden Hollow. Streets are paved with golden cobblestones, while the upper districts gleam with golden statues, luxurious mansions, and fountains fed by mountain spring water. Below ground, the lower districts are home to the mining operations, smelting furnaces, and the ever-expanding gold industry.

City Defenses

Aethelmarch is a highly coveted target due to its immense wealth, and its defenses are designed to ensure its survival. The city walls, constructed from a mixture of locally mined stone and gold ore, are both durable and awe-inspiring. The gates of the city are said to be impenetrable, and the Golden Hollow itself is fiercely protected by an elite guard. The Mountain Guard, a special military force, patrols the surrounding mountains, ensuring the safety of the gold mines and the city's treasure. Underground sentries and labyrinthine passages further protect the precious resources.

The Golden Hollow

The Golden Hollow is not just any goldmine, it is the heart of House Rockcram's power and wealth. Stretching far beneath the Heavencap Mountains, it produces gold, silver, and gems, fueling the family's rise to power. Within the mines, there are also rumors of ancient relics and treasures left by the previous rulers of the land. The Royal Mint within the city converts gold into currency, but much of it is melted down to create weapons, armor, and other valuable items that bolster House Rockcram's influence. The Rockcrams control the flow of wealth, using it as leverage in political negotiations.

House Rockcram: Lords of Aethelmarch

House Rockcram stands at the pinnacle of wealth and power in Aethelmarch. Their leadership is marked by Lord Ronan Rockcram, who uses both military strength and political negotiation to maintain control of the city. His wife, Lady Maeva Rockcram, oversees the gold mines and ensures that the family's commercial dealings continue to grow. Their son, Captain Varric Rockcram, commands a fierce military force, protecting the gold and securing their hold on the region. Serilda Rockcram, their daughter, handles the family's diplomatic relations with other noble houses, securing advantageous alliances.

House Motto:

'The Mountain's Might, The Gold's Strength'

Wealth and Influence

Gold has allowed House Rockcram to dominate the region, but their wealth comes at a price. The city is filled with political intrigue, corruption, and rivalries as factions vie for control of the Golden Hollow. The Rockcram's wealth makes them a target, but it also gives them the means to defend themselves and extend their power throughout Kydmarra.

A City of Contrasts

Aethelmarch is a city of both immense opportunity and dangerous treachery. The wealth that flows from the Golden Hollow sustains the city, but it also attracts enemies who seek to take what the Rockcrams have built. In this city of gold, danger lurks around every corner, and those who wish to rise to power must navigate both the riches and the risks that Aethelmarch offers.