Spinecastle

Spinecastle is a military outpost, guarding the Flare Line opposite of the Swarming Ground. The fortress gets its name from the design of its battlements, which are a veritable nest of archery holes. This castle is garrisoned by 400 soldiers, half of whom are longbowmen. These archers are renowned throughout Furyondy for their skill. The other half of the garrison included a unit of heavy infantrymen, who also have a reputation as staunch veterans.

Spinecastle is administered by the powerful warrior Jeileneth. She is Kalinstren’s only child (Her mother died in childbirth, bearing a stillborn second). Jelleneth, like her father, is a reverer of Trithereon and she too badgers Belvor for more active assistance and readying for war. The faith of Trithereon is strong at Spinecastle, and Jelleneth’s senior priest, Darden, is the barony's representative in the Noble Council.

Spinecastle suffered major damage during the war, with its external walls virtually destroyed and two of its three towers severely damaged. Its repair has been exceptionally swift and is expected to be complete by the month of Wealsun. This is largely due to the work of the castle’s specialist conjurer, the eccentric Tobian Rushkane. Tobian is not often seen (usually preferring to remain invisible). Tobian has befriended a number of jann over years, and they are always visible, directing earth elementals in work on the castle fortifications.

Jelleneth’s troops do not often strike against Iuz’s forces, but it is no secret that she gives succor and aid to several hired mercenary groups and free adventurers who wish to fight the dark forces to the north.

Spinecastle is watched closely by powerful commanders among the forces of Iuz. A greater thassaloss stands a constant watch, just across the border, keeping the castle under constant surveillance. Two attempts to strike it down by magic have been met by its sudden disappearance and reappearance an hour or so later. The grim sentinel places lurking fear in the minds of all who see it, even if morale is good.