Dertosa

Dertosa is a small Menestian town, nestled in the western part of the Micanos Valley. Once an inconsequential farming hamlet, close to the western border, Dertosa grew in population and renown after the establishment of a monastic order, the Ring of Redemption, in an abandonned fortified garrison building a few decades ago. Since then, the inhabitants of this curious monastery and the locals of Dertosa have cohabited in peace, the farmers providing food for the monks when necessary in exchange for spiritual guidance, protection, and occasionnal labor. The monastery being independent from the political forces of Menestia, the town of Dertosa is considered a refuge and sanctuary, the monks barring the entry to any guards who might try to enter.

History

Dertosa has existed as a farming hamlet for centuries without much development or popularity. During the Prime War, its proximity to the western border made it a strategic point of defense, thus warranting the construction of fortified garrison building. At the time, this small fortress represented half of the village's land area, and the influx of soldiers and other war-related professions helped rejuvenize the hamlet, as well as expand its importance over the next decades or so. Nevertheless, it always remained a relatively small town, not very touristicly attractive or economically significant. In 273 AM, the Ring of Redemption bought the old garrison building which had been abandonned over the years. Though their project of opening an influential monastery dedicated to the penance of guilty souls was received with wariness by the locals, the peaceful and collaborative attitude of the monks managed to mitigate some of the initial distrust. Over the years, the cohabitation has grown more and more comfortable, the monastery is now enmeshed within the community and its activities.
Nowadays, Dertosa is recognized as a safe-haven for travelers as well as those trying to escape from various authorities and ready to seek penance inside the monastery. The monks, although they claim not wanting to engage with any political affairs, have been known to harbor political activists seeking refuge and asking for asylum.

Climate

The southwest region of the Micanos Valley is subject to a temperate climate, with short and mild winters.

Natural Resources

Like most towns in the Micanos Valley, Dertosa is surrounded by highly fertile lands, making it a hotspot of agricultural production. Grains, mostly wheat, lupins, and hemp, are the most common crops, although there are a good number of orchards and vineyards in the area, as well as fodder crops, used for animal herding. The free labor offerred by the monastery also facilitates the rise and prosperation of agriculture in the community.

Type

Town

Location under

Micanos Valley