Exterior:
Structure: The building is constructed primarily from sturdy, weathered wood, with large, rough-hewn logs forming the framework. The wood has aged gracefully, taking on a deep, rich hue that blends well with the surrounding forest. The walls are reinforced with stone at the base, providing stability and protection against the elements. This combination of materials gives the outpost a rustic, yet enduring appearance.
Roof: The roof is pitched and covered with wooden shingles, designed to withstand heavy rain and snow. Over time, moss and lichen have grown along the edges, softening the building’s silhouette and connecting it further to its natural surroundings.
Windows: The windows are small and rectangular, measuring about 2x1.5 feet. They are positioned high on the walls, providing just enough light to illuminate the interior while maintaining a sense of security. The glass is thick and slightly imperfect, housed in wooden frames with exterior shutters that can be closed during harsh weather or at night.
Doors: The main entrance is a heavy wooden door, reinforced with iron banding to withstand both the elements and any potential threats from the wilds. The door features an iron ring handle and a small, iron-reinforced viewing hatch that can be opened to check visitors before granting entry. At the back of the building, there is a simpler, less fortified door, used for deliveries and as a secondary exit.
Interior:
Butcher’s Area: Upon entering, the first space encountered is the butcher’s area, where the robust Tiefling butcher, Nethandre, works. The room is functional and slightly dim, with the scent of smoked meats and spices permeating the air. A large wooden counter runs along one side, displaying a variety of fresh cuts, sausages, and cured products. Behind the counter, large slabs of meat hang from hooks, ready to be processed. The walls are lined with shelves holding spices, curing salts, and various tools of the trade, all meticulously organized for efficiency.
Hunting Trophies: The walls of the outpost are adorned with hunting trophies, each one telling a story of a successful hunt. Antlers of various sizes, tanned pelts, and the occasional skull of a strange creature from the
Northern Forest serve as both decoration and a testament to the skill of the village’s hunters. These trophies add a rugged character to the space, making it clear that this is a place where the wilds meet civilization.
Gathering Point: Adjacent to the butcher’s area is a space dedicated to the hunters who frequent the outpost. Rough wooden tables and benches are arranged in a cozy, informal manner, encouraging conversation and camaraderie among the hunters and villagers. This area is often lively, filled with the sound of laughter and the sharing of tales from recent hunts. A large stone hearth in the corner provides warmth, with a perpetual fire crackling and adding a comforting glow to the room.
Ceilings: The ceilings are about 9 feet tall, supported by thick wooden beams that crisscross above, adding to the rustic aesthetic. The beams are practical, used to hang cured meats, herbs, and occasionally small game.
Lighting: The lighting in the outpost is deliberately kept dim, with the main sources being the hearth and a few strategically placed lanterns. The lanterns emit a warm, yellow light that creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere, though it may cast deep shadows, contributing to the building's rugged feel.
Internal Doors: The internal doors are solid and functional, standing at about 6.5 feet tall. They are made from sturdy wood, fitted with iron hinges and handles. These doors connect the main butcher’s area to the storage room and a private meeting space where hunters like Caelum, one of the village’s best, can discuss strategies or plan their next expeditions.
Surrounding Area:
Outdoor Space: The building is surrounded by a small, cleared area where hunters often gather before heading into the forest. This space is used to prepare their gear, inspect game, or simply share a drink around a fire after a successful hunt. Wooden posts for tying up game and workbenches for field dressing are scattered around, making this an extension of the building’s interior functions.
Smokehouse: Adjacent to the outpost, a small, separate smokehouse is visible. This simple structure is where much of the meat is cured, adding another layer of utility to the outpost. The smokehouse, like the main building, is constructed from thick wood, with a small chimney at the top allowing smoke to escape.
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