Bryn Shander
The first stop for most visitors to Icewind Dale is Bryn Shander, a walled town perched atop a cold, lonely, wind-lashed hill. Bright lanterns suspended over narrow streets twist in the wind and add flecks of color to the town's otherwise drab surroundings.
The friendliness in this settlement has dwindled of late. Auril's unyielding winter has greatly reduced the number of visitors to Bryn Shander, and local trade is suffering for it, eating away at the locals' sense of humor and goodwill. Still, there is no safer place in Icewind Dale to spend coin or spend the night.
The walls of the town stand some 30 feet high and are defined by two concentric rings of upright wooden poles, the gap between them filled with dirt and rubble. The outer ring of poles rises above the top of the wall, providing a rampart for defenders stationed on the wood-planked walkway. The wall's hinged gates are 15 feet tall and can be barred from the inside with iron-banded wood beams. These gates are closed when it's dark outside-which is to say more often than not.
Bryn Shander in a Nutshell
Population. 1,200.
Leaders. Speaker Duvessa Shane speaks for the townsfolk. Though relatively young, Duvessa is the head of the Council of Speakers. Sheriff Markham Southwell commands the militia.
Heraldry. Black antlers above a vertical shaft of golden wheat on a white field, signifying the town's strength and prosperity on the vast, snowy tundra. Player Art Handout: Bryn Shander
Sacrifice: Humanoid.
Rivalries. None.
Points of interest
Blackiron Blades, Smithy and outfitter
House of the Morninglord, Shrine of Amaunator (god of the sun)
The Northlook, Inn and tavern
Magic Tower
Cakey Bakey
Type
Large town
Characters in Location
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