Edgecross

   As the last bastion of civilization before the unknown, Edgecross beckons to adventurers, scholars, and the curious at heart, promising tales of discovery, bravery, and the allure of the uncharted. Lets delve into the heart of Edgecross, where bravery meets the Wild and where the echoes of the unknown reverberate through every cobblestone street.

   Nestled at the very edge of the known world, where the familiar landscapes give way to the mysteries of the uncharted North, lies Edgecross—a quaint and resilient town at the North Western extremity of Avan'Wanor. Home to roughly 400 souls, this remote settlement has earned its place as the last outpost before the vast expanse known simply as the "Wild". Here, amidst the untamed wilderness and nomadic tribes, Edgecross stands as the last safe and warm heaven before the freezing unknown.
The heart of Edgecross beats within the walls of Fort Valiant, an old fortress that holds more than just defensive prowess; it serves as a guiding light for mariners navigating the Booming Bay. During Spring and Autumn, the town's atmosphere is marked by the relentless echos of the blasts made by the majestic White Whales that cause the ice to explode when they surface, giving the bay its resounding name.
Life in Edgecross is shaped by the unyielding spirit of its inhabitants. Amidst the challenges of their remote location and the enigmatic "Wild", they have woven a vibrant tapestry of culture, tradition, and courage. The town is not only celebrated for its resilience but also for its distinctive musical style, its mouthwatering pastries, and its prized dried meat.

The Rumble

   At the heart of Edgecross's cultural identity lies the enchanting musical style known as the "Rumble". This spectacle draws locals and visitors alike into its irresistible rythm. Central to the "Rumble's" unique melody is the "Whalefin Drum", an extraordinary instrument crafted from the majestic fins of White Whales that grace the Booming Bay. Renowned craftsmen from Edgecross intricately sculpt and tune these fins to produce hauntingly beautiful notes. The instrument's design, with its curved shape and smooth, polished surface, allows for a mesmerizing play of rhythms, evoking the ebb and flow of the sea.
   The Whalefin Drum is not merely a musical instrument; it carries the essence of Edgecross's connection to the sea and the White Whales that have been an integral part of the town's history. Playing the Whalefin Drum is considered an honor, and skilled musicians are celebrated as cherished keepers of the town's musical heritage.

   When the rhythmic beats of the Whalefin Drum echo through the streets of Edgecross, the townsfolk join hands in a grand spectacle of fellowship—the Dance of Circles. In massive circles, the people of Edgecross link their elbows, forming a unified chain that embraces the entire community. The odd pattern of music, characterized by an odd number of times per measure and a 4-1 tempo, adds a delightful complexity to the dance, challenging the participants to stay in harmony with each other and the music. As the rhythms echo into the night, they serve as a tribute to the town's enduring strength, reminding everyone that, just like the dance, the people of Edgecross are linked together, forging a powerful bond that withstands the challenges of the world beyond their walls.

The Polar Star

   Amidst the chilly winds and starlit nights, lies a delectable pastry known as the "Polar Star." This star-shaped delicacy holds more than just a delightful taste; it carries the weight of tradition, heritage, and a sense of belonging that resonates with every soul in the town.
Cooked with meticulous care, the Polar Star is made from yeast-leavened laminated dough, resembling the flaky texture of croissants. Generously sprinkled with cinnamon, the pastry exudes a comforting warmth that perfectly complements the frosty surroundings of Edgecross. However, the true magic lies in the subtle berry icing that adorns its surface—a vibrant reminder of the colorful lights that dance in the winter sky.
   Legend has it that during the winter solstice Tadia, known in the Wild as the Star Bearer, brings back on hearth a small fragment of each star as a gift of legacy, remembrance and ancestral love to everyone in town. As the town gathers to celebrate the longest night of the year, families and friends exchange these pastries, sharing Tadia's blessings.
Lacking some context?

Tadia is originaly the Goddess of the Moon venerated by the inhabitants of Stjarna'Stoll and the followers of their religion. The lengends say she was named The Silver Lady after she appeared on the slopes of the Mountain of Stars and helped the humans settling in these bountyful lands.
Tadia is considered by many as the Hostess of the dead, turning every dead soul into a star. Bringing the stars back is a way of making the living reconnect, at least symbolically, with their deceised loved ones

by Monzoobo using Midjourney, Illustrator and Photoshop

Passed down through generations, the recipe of this celestial delight carries stories of cherished memories and family tradition. Baking the Polar Star together becomes a ritual during the winter season, fostering a strong sense of unity and belonging within the town's community.
   Beyond its sacred association with the winter solstice, the Polar Star has also evolved into a cultural dish. On significant occasions and grand festivities, many bakers grace the town with their pointy creations.
And as the Polar Star decorates the tables of Edgecross, its sweet aroma fills the air, and a sense of enchantment permeates through the streets. For the children, it is a taste of celestial magic, while for the adults, it is a connection to the traditions that have guided them through generations. It is ultimately a light that guides everyone through the cold winters as a reminder of the stars that watch over them from the heavens above.

The Wildian Snowgoose

   While mysteries of the Wild loom close, a culinary delight known as the "Wildian Snowgoose" has long been cherished by the locals. This dried meat, made from a fairly common animal, the snowgoose, has been a treasured tradition, passed down through generations.
   The process of cooking the Wildian Snowgoose is a delicate art steeped in ancient wisdom. Every year, when winter casts its icy grip, the snowgoose hunting season commences. Once caught and butchered, the snowgoose is laid in a bed of pure salt for three days, a practice that cooks the meat and imparts a unique flavor. After this salting process, the bird is carefully enshrined in ice, surrounded by a bouquet of carefully chosen aromatic herbs.
Eating the Wildian Snowgoose is like embarking on a journey to the uncharted lands. As the dried meat graces the palate, a symphony of flavors unfolds—hints of the icy winds that whip through the Wild, the earthy aroma of untouched landscapes, and the essence of the wild life that call this untamed land home.
   In recent times, as more people from near and far visit Edgecross and learn of the Wildian Snowgoose, the tradition has evolved. What was once a "once a year" culinary experience has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated on various occasions, and embraced by a wider audience. However, the essence of the dish still lies in the art of its preparation and the secret of its receipe is jealously kept from strangers.

by Monzoobo using Midjourney and Photoshop

   In the remote town of Edgecross, where the rhythms of life are guided by the ebb and flow of the sea, celebrations are grand affairs. Among the most cherished festivities are the "Night-of-All" and the "Fae's Ascent," both ingrained in the town's cultural fabric.

The Night-of-All

   As the winter solstice casts its longest night, Edgecross illuminates the darkness with the "Night-of-All." This ethereal celebration, often considered the day of the deads, pays homage to those who have passed on and embraces the mysteries of the beyond.
Countless boats, one for each family, are adorned with flickering flames and sent out to sea. They become a mesmerizing dance of fire, creating a pathway of light that vanishes into the horizon. This symbolic offering is believed to guide the spirits of the departed on their journey to the afterlife, ensuring their safe passage towards Tadia's realm.
   The "Night-of-All" is not only a solemn occasion but also a time of jubilant festivities. The townsfolk gather to celebrate life, survival, and unity. Feast tables are laden with a bounty of culinary delights, including the beloved Polar Stars.
   Gifts to Tadia are offered with reverence. The townspeople express gratitude for the ever loving gaze of the goddess and for her relentless mission of caring for both the dead and the living.

The Fae's Ascent

   As the first ice whale is hunted after the spring equinox, while the Booming Bay's ice sheet is getting thiner, Edgecross gathers once again for the "Fae's Ascent," a celebration that honors the circle of life and grants luck for the upcoming year.
Effigies of faes, intricately crafted from the bones of the ice whale, become the center of the ceremony. These representations are adorned with symbols of luck and prosperity. As the effigies are set ablaze, the flames reach toward the heavens as the smoke carries the wishes and hopes of the townsfolk for a bountiful and fortunate year ahead.
The "Fae's Ascent" is a time for renewal and connection with the natural world. As the ice whale sustains life in Edgecross, its bones become vessels of hope and gratitude, invoking a sense of wonder and respect for the intricacies of existence.

   Edgecross is not only a town of traditions and celebrations but also a melting pot of captivating personalities that add depth to the vibrant community. Among them are three key figures who play significant roles in shaping the town's identity and defining its destiny.

Ki Vestaca : The Grizzled Sheriff

   Ki Vestaca, the Chester Sheriff of Edgecross, epitomizes the ruggedness and resilience of the town. Hailing from the nomadic Clan of the Bright Hand, known to be aligned with the Silverwood Lands, Ki carries with him a sense of loyalty to his roots. His time as a whaler in the open seas earned him a reputation as a grizzled old-timer.
Retired and injured, Ki seeks redemption for his past actions and stands up for the interests of his clan, despite the outcast status he acquired after opposing the Stjarna'Stoll. His devotion to his daughter, who works alongside Taelia Coppe, is unwavering. This family bond drives him to protect and serve Edgecross with utmost determination.

Taelia Coppe: The Enthralling Chef

   At the heart of Edgecross's culinary fame stands Taelia Coppe, the head of the renowned Iron Shores' Inn. Known as "The Chef". With a deep passion for food and culinary innovation, Taelia is driven by her insatiable quest for new recipes and exotic flavors, relentlesly making deals with adventurers for new tastes which earned her rumors of being a demon (that and the red skin you know)
As the leader of the most famous monster hunting guild in the North, Taelia wields natural authority and a formidable presence that defuses conflicts. Admirers and adversaries alike are drawn to her, both respecting and fearing her prowess. Her culinary creations and imposing silhouette have established her as a formidable figure, respected throughout the town and beyond.

Jannah River: The Adventurous Patron

   Jannah River, an influential patron coming from the House River, in Rod, brings an aristocratic charm intertwined with an adventurous spirit to Edgecross. Driven by a desire to regain her family's love and acceptance, she seeks exotic artifacts from far-flung lands, filling her vast mansion with countless extravagant trinkets and trophies.
Jannah's mansion is not just a showcase of her discoveries but a testament to her unwavering determination. She supports multiple adventurers in their quests to find rare treasures, always in pursuit of the one artifact that will reunite her with her House. Despite her past castaway status, she remains resolute, believing that her next trinket will be the key to her family's acceptance.

   While the customs and people of the town are its heart, it is thanks to its key landmarks that the town has kept its relevense.

Fort Valiant

   Fort Valiant, the heart of Edgecross, stands as a beacon of protection and a symbol of the town's resilience. Under the guidance of Sheriff Kim Vestaca and Ol'Maggy, the fortress is guarded by a small garrison of two dozen men. The Commander Ashenlade oversees its defense and strategic planning, ensuring the safety of the townsfolk.
Built on a hill at the center of Edgecross, the fortress is an amalgamation of human architecture and mysterious walls that bear the mark of the Lords or perhaps something even older. Its distinctive lighthouse atop the structure serves as a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous Booming Bay.

Iron Shores' Inn

   Just outside the gate of Fort Valiant, the Iron Shores' Inn is a key to the bustling life of Edgecross. What appears to grow from the fortress wall itself, the massive building encompasses an angular inn section, a sprawling kitchen, quarters for the hunters, and courtyards where tales of adventure and wonder are exchanged. The inn also boasts a grand bathhouse, providing respite for weary travelers and adventurers.
Led by the enigmatic Chef Taelia Coppe, the Iron Shores' Inn has become a renowned gathering place, where travelers share their experiences and cultures, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the town's inhabitants. It is also a great place to find a hunting contract or two.

Cathedral of the Echos

   Outside the town, against the backdrop of the pristine white cliffs and contrasting pitch-black sands, stands the awe-inspiring Cathedral of the Echos, often referred to as the "Edge Moonwell." The Cathedral is built with the very stones of the cliffs and incorporates countless remains of Ice Whales that once used this spot as a cemetery, drawing circles around the well with their bodies.
This sacred abyss, blessed by Tadia herself, is known for its waters that glow in the moonlight and are said to possess healing properties. However, the mysteries of the Cathedral go deeper, as it is whispered that those who sink into the well never resurface again.

A town unified by a single spirit

   In Edgecross, the buildings carry tales of courage, exploration, and mystery. Fort Valiant stands as a fortress of protection and a remnant of ancient history, while the Iron Shores' Inn serves as a hub of community and cultural exchange. Meanwhile, the Cathedral of the Echos remains shrouded in enigmatic allure, drawing both reverence and a sense of trepidation from those who approach its sacred waters.
As the sun sets over Edgecross and the stars emerge to illuminate the night, the town comes alive with tales of daring adventurers, heartfelt celebrations, and the echoes of the unknown. It is in the fusion of these landmarks, histories, and personalities that the true enchantment of Edgecross can be found, making it a place of wonder and fascination for all who venture within its bounds.

   The Wild, stands as a realm of mystery and allure. Its landscape is characterized by unforgiving terrains, treacherous frozen swamps, icy cliffs, dense forests, and frozen seas where nature's might reigns supreme, demanding both caution and skill from those who dare to venture forth.
Rumors of unimaginable wealth in the Wild circulate like whispers on the wind, fueling dreams among countless explorers. The allure of hidden gold reserves and the quest to find the Ethereal Cove—a mysterious bay where the rare Diamond Whales are thought to journey to die—spark relentless endeavors. The Booming Bay, named after awe-inspiring White Whales, holds allure for those seeking quicker routes to the land of the Grey Pixies, envisioning lucrative trade opportunities. Moreover, the Wildian snowgoose's dried meat has created a craze among the people, inspiring hunting expeditions and even the possibility of domestication. Although, hunters do not only go after geese... The Wild is filled with bigger and more challenging preys.

Will you answer the Call?

Answer the Call of the North!

To all Seeking Adventurers,
Greetings from the Iron Shores Inn!
As the esteemed Chief, Taelia Coppe, I pen this missive to extend a heartfelt invitation to those brave souls yearning to answer the call of the Wild. With the hunting season fast approaching, an opportunity for daring exploration and boundless fortune awaits those who dare to venture into the untamed unknown.
The Wild, a realm teeming with uncharted territories and untold mysteries, beckons you to leave your mark upon its rugged landscape. Legends of hidden riches, rare creatures, and the elusive Ethereal Cove have ignited the imaginations of countless adventurers. Within the walls of our inn, we gather a fellowship of like-minded souls, ready to embrace the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
From treacherous frozen swamps to icy cliffs and dense forests, your path into the unknown will test your courage and resourcefulness. As the last outpost before the Wild, the Iron Shores Inn stands as a beacon of preparation and camaraderie, equipping you with essential provisions and forging alliances to navigate this perilous environment.
Amidst the thrill of the hunt, the inn resonates with the vibrancy of camaraderie and tales of seasoned hunters who have braved the Wild before you. Join us in the pursuit of the Wildian snowgoose's prized dried meat, be the first to bring down a Dreamweaver this season, help us getting our first White Whale of the year!
Embrace the spirit of discovery, and let your name be etched into the annals of legend. Prepare your gear, hone your skills, and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Wild. The hunting season awaits, and we eagerly await your arrival at the Iron Shores Inn.
With anticipation and admiration for your adventurous spirit,

— Taelia Coppe
Chief of the Iron Shores Inn

The Missing Heirloom:

Jannah River has lost a precious heirloom, a mysterious amulet said to hold ancient powers. The party is tasked with investigating the disappearance and retrieving the amulet before the town's annual festival, where its magical properties are essential for an important ritual.

The Ethereal Cove Expedition:

Rumors have surfaced about the location of the legendary Ethereal Cove, said to be hidden deep within the Wild. The cove is believed to hold the remains of countless diamond whales whose presence could bring unparalleled wealth and prosperity to Edgecross. The party is hired by Navili, a wealthy merchant, to embark on an expedition to locate the cove and secure the diamonds.

The Tribe's Curse:

One of the nomadic tribes residing in the Wild, the Bright Hand, has fallen victim to an inexplicable curse that threatens their survival. The party is sought out by Ki Vestaca and a desperate shaman from the tribe, to aid in lifting the curse. They must delve into the ancient lore of the Wild, seeking clues about the curse's origin and the means to break it.

The Wildian Snowgoose Migration:

The annual migration of the elusive Wildian snowgoose is upon the region, and Edgecross's demand for the prized dried meat reaches its peak. However, this year, the snowgoose population is dwindling due to unknown reasons. The party is enlisted by Taelia Coppe to investigate the cause and ensure the survival of this vital resource.

The Forgotten Temple:

A long-lost temple dedicated to the Greys has been rumored to resurface within the Wild. The party is tasked by Jannah River with uncovering the temple's secrets and retrieving a powerful relic hidden within its depths. However, they are not the only ones seeking this artifact, as a rival group of treasure hunters seeks to claim it for themselves.