Epsilo
The town of Epsilo is the entry way into the Jakonian Peninsula for many travelers and wanderers from destinations further west. Trade caravans from the peninsula depart from here into the Kingdom of Forard, often journeying onward to even more distant locales to deliver the exports of the empire. Inward trade also passes through here, marking it as the community with the largest amount of overland commerce in the whole of Emicara. Few of the caravans do more than rest here, instead making camp and occasionally hiring mercenaries or buying supplies as they prepare to head to their true destinations.
Demographics
Epsilo is nearly entirely human in population, a mix of Forardi and Columban residents. The largest nonhuman minority is hill dwarves from Kiralyno who act as service for the mercenary regiments that pass through to wars and battles further west. A handful of half-orcs are also present, descendants of victims of orc raids from the Badlands.
Government
The governance of Epsilo is managed directly by the noble house that owns the land surrounding the community. The house typically appoints delegates to oversee affairs and represent the interests of the aristocracy. However, this has been changed by tradition, and over the past few decades, the nobles have allowed the election of a commoner mayor to bring forward issues and concerns by the masses. This elected mayor is in his position for life or until removed by the aristocracy's demand. The mayor has some power when appointing members of the guard and his own delegates to deal with infrastructure or trade issues. He is also the first word on jurisprudence, although a wealthy citizen of the town can appeal the ruling of a case to his fellows if he does not accept the mayor's judgement.
Defences
Epsilo is ably defended, as dwarven mercenary regiments regular encamp here en route to other locations, giving a good measure of protection against typical orc or bandit raids. The town itself is protected by three levied regiments of guards regularly stationed in the town, and one royal regiment sent by the king himself to maintain border security. In a true time of crisis the community could muster around eight hundred of its citizens as a militia to supplement the regiments. They have a citadel within the center of the town, well constructed and engineered, the veteran of numerous border wars and raids. The exterior wall of Epsilo is similarly well constructed of stone hauled from the north. These structures have long proven sufficient against any assault.
Industry & Trade
The majority of Epsilo's economy is based upon the regular east and west trade that takes place. Most of the goods transferred through the surrounding area are Columban or Jakonian exports bound for the Mersan Union, but local trade with the Forardi city of Crawford is also quite popular. The town's industry relies predominantly upon servicing the trade caravans and mercenary regiments that pass through, providing hubs for these groups to trade amongst themselves as well as spend their gold within the town walls. There is some minor fishing and farming in the surrounding area, but most of the produce are sold for local consumption or to supplement the rations of passing mercenaries.
Infrastructure
Epsilo, thanks to ample investment both from local nobility and the various merchant caravans that pass through, has developed substantial local infrastructure works. Most of the buildings are solid stone, and the streets are universally paved, offering quick and safe transit. The majority of the town is built on raised land, allowing the construction and utilization of drainage and sewers, keeping the town clean and smelling relatively well. The various markets are all well sheltered, and the town itself has built the granaries and infrastructure needed to withstand lengthy sieges, should a new war erupt on the western border.
Assets
The community has a thriving marketplace, which caters to merchants and adventurers in particular. Inns and hotels abound, coaxing those who wander away from the encampments outside in favor of supporting local businesses with good meals and a sheltered place to sleep. For those less eager to spend money within Epsilo's walls, the ample cleared ground around the fortifications offer safe places to encamp, which are regularly used by dwarven mercenary regiments and traveling caravans. The dwarves in particular are well taken care of by the resident dwarven clan, which provides sustenance to the regiments at discounted prices, including weapon repair and provisions.
Founding Date
212 AF
Type
Town
Population
5,400
Inhabitant Demonym
Epsilan
Location under
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
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