Westkeep

Westkeep, located on the westernmost edge of the Prelacy of Middenmark, is anchored by a unique watchtower-monastery that serves both as a defensive fortification and an educational center for apprentice Priests. This structure is crucial in spreading the teachings of St. Ygg across the region.
Although Westkeep observes the Red Laws, it does so with more leniency than Eastdale, allowing for a blend of traditional beliefs and new doctrines. This approach has helped the village develop into a diverse and vibrant community.
Key figures like Jorund Stoneheart, a former noble from the north and the proprietor of The Bison's Rest, play significant roles in the social life of Westkeep. His tavern, known for its northern fare and as a gathering place, helps knit the community together by offering a space where locals and travelers can mingle and share stories.
The village's strategic location and the dedication of its leaders and community members ensure that Westkeep remains a resilient and welcoming place despite the challenges posed by its geopolitical significance.

---

Population:

649 - post attack (1,048 pre-attack)

Alignment:

Lawful

Demographics:

Humans, Elves, Halflings

Political Structure:

Governed by Ecclesiastical Law under Endra, human priest of St. Ygg

Industry and Trade:

Notable for horse and bison breeding, livestock farming (cattle, pigs, sheep), lumber, and Salmonsen Mine Operations

In the Shadow of the Tower, I find comfort knowing we stand watch.

— Endra

---

Most Recent Developments

• A Call for Aid

During the events of Session 43 - Through the Mud, "We-Haul" stumbled upon a critical piece of correspondence while escorting a caravan along the dangerous The Gauntlet Road. They found the body of a messenger bearing the iconography of the Church, clutching a parchment letter. This document was a desperate call requesting aid from Eastdale and His Venerable Mercy, Mordicar the Justhand. Tragically, the letter never reached its intended destination, and the requested help never arrived.

The Found Letter

A Call for Aid - Westkeep's Request

To his most Honored Mordicar the Justhand, Prelate of The Church of St. Ygg in Middenmark,

In these times of hardship, I, Endra, servant of St. Ygg and guardian of Westkeep, reach out with a plea for aid. Our village, nestled in the shadows of the Moon Peak Mountains and the edge of the Darkwood Forest, has long stood as a beacon of faith and resilience. Yet, we find ourselves facing a threat that may well surpass our capacity to endure alone.
This winter is one of the harshest in memory, leaving our larders nearly empty and our people weakened. Throughout this brutal season, we have witnessed unsettling movements within the Moon Peak Mountains. Reports from our scouts speak of a large gathering of Neanderthal barbarians, a people driven by desperation and the stark choice to conquer or perish. It is our belief that an attack is imminent, one that seeks to exploit our moment of vulnerability.
Thus, we call upon the might and mercy of The Church of St. Ygg. We request immediate assistance in the form of supplies to replenish our diminished stores and reinforcements to bolster our defenses. Without such aid, Westkeep may not withstand the coming storm.
In service of this plea, we have dispatched a group of our newest recruits to the church, each bearing the light of St. Ygg within their hearts. Led by the brave and devout Sir Eldan, these five souls: Aelwyn the Scholar, Borin the Steadfast, Celia the Compassionate, Derrin the Quick, and Eira the Hopeful, carry with them not only this message but the very spirit of our community.
They are young, yet their determination and faith are unwavering. We entrust them to your guidance, hopeful that they may learn from your wisdom and, in turn, bring much-needed succor back to Westkeep.

May St. Ygg watch over them on their journey, and may His wisdom guide your hand in our hour of need.

With utmost faith, Endra Keeper of the Westkeep Watchtower
"2nd of Verion in the 11th year of our Covenant"

• Attack by Neanderthal Barbarians

As the harsh winter drew to a close, Westkeep faced a formidable threat. On "Peak" (Mountain Day), the 17th of Verion in the year 11 AC, a large horde of Neanderthal barbarians from the Moon Peak Mountains launched a brutal assault on the village. The battle that ensued was fierce and wrought considerable losses among the defenders. However, the residents of Westkeep, fortified within the Westkeep Watchtower, managed to withstand the assault. The village's survival can largely be attributed to the strategic acumen of Commander Darian Hawkwood and the valiant efforts of the WestWatchers, who together orchestrated a successful defense that ultimately repelled the invaders.

Type

Village

Population

649

Included Locations

• Salmonsen Mine
• Scroll and Quill
• The Bison's Rest
• The Rabid Wolf
• The Sturdy Steed
• The WestWatchers
• Westkeep Watchtower
• Westward Bound

Owning Organization

The Church of St. Ygg

Characters in Location

• Albree Ironfoot
• Commander Darian Hawkwood of the Westwatchers
• Elara Moonbrook
• Endra the Watcher
• Jorund Stoneheart
• Merric Gildshade

---

---

• Clearing of the Path to Salmonsen Mine

During a carousing celebration Session 49 - A Cold Trip; Osgar Cazyach - "The Squirrl" stumbled onto a sleeping Yeti, with the assistance of "We-Haul" they managed to clear a treacherous path to and from the Salmonsen Mine. This path had been unused for a long while due to a northern yeti blocking its way. The group dealt with the beast, slaying it and unlocking a new route that shaves hours off the journey between Westkeep and The Rabid Wolf.

---

Key Locations

The Watchtower

fortified watchtower-monastery, which symbolizes both protection and spiritual learning. This structure also serves as a refuge for villagers during attacks, with a strategically removable staircase.

The Sturdy Steed

A trusted outfitter run by local industrious tinkerer, Albree Ironfoot, offering creative custom gear for adventurers. You dream it, she will build it.

---

The Scroll and Quill

A hidden and invite only library; sequestered under an old "haunted" granary. Protecting texts from the book burners of the Church of St. Ygg.

---

The Bison's Rest

Run by a former norther noble starting a new life, a popular drinking hall where locals share stories over hearty ales.

Westward Bound

Overseen by a eccentric Halfling Wizard from the southern sands, this caravan staging area preparing travelers for journeys, known for its meticulous organization.

---

Guilds and Factions

Moonlit Pathfinders

A local adventuring group; known for helping travelers along the gauntlet road and local rangings.

Green Leaf Collective

The Blackstone Syndicate

The WestWatchers

An adventuring hall that provides training and serves as a hub for quests and camaraderie among the locals and aspiring heroes.

WestWatchers Guild Message Board

Welcome, brave souls, here lies the heart of our community's needs and challenges. From bandit sightings to poisoned wells, these quests demand courage, skill, and resolve. Whether you're a seasoned warrior or new to our ranks, there's a mission here for you. Choose wisely, for every task you undertake shapes the future of Westkeep.

— Commander Darian Hawkwood of the Westwatchers

---

Bandits Spotted!

Details: Reports have come in about a group of bandits ambushing travelers along the North Crag Road. They are well-armed and led by a cunning leader known only as "The Shadow." Travelers and caravans have been robbed, and a few have gone missing. The WestWatchers are seeking brave souls to track down these bandits, eliminate the threat, and recover any stolen goods.

Reward: 100 gold pieces and a share of recovered loot.

A Strange Fog in the Fields

Details: Farmers near the outskirts of Westkeep have reported a strange, luminescent fog appearing in their fields at night. Crops within the fog have withered, and a few livestock have gone missing. The fog is said to move against the wind and disappear at dawn. The WestWatchers need a group to investigate the source of this mysterious phenomenon and put an end to it.

Details: 50 gold pieces and a bounty on any magical or dangerous creatures found.

Wolfs at Grigsby Farmstead

Details: The Grigsby Farmstead has been plagued by a pack of wolves attacking their bison herd. These wolves are unusually aggressive and seem to be led by a particularly large and intelligent alpha. The farmstead is desperate for help to protect their livestock and ensure the safety of their farm.

Reward: 75 gold pieces and a supply of bison meat.

Missed Re-Supply Caravan

Details: A caravan carrying vital supplies from Eastdale to Westkeep has gone missing. It was last seen entering the Darkwood Forest. There are fears that it may have been attacked by wild beasts or fallen into an ambush. The WestWatchers are looking for volunteers to locate the missing caravan, recover the supplies, and bring any survivors back to safety.

Reward: 100 gold pieces and a portion of the recovered supplies.

Ghostly Apparitions in the Mine

Details: Workers at the Salmonsen Mine have reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing eerie whispers deep within the tunnels. Productivity has dropped as fear spreads among the miners. The WestWatchers need a team to investigate these supernatural occurrences and ensure the safety of the miners.

Reward: 80 gold pieces and a bonus if the mine's operations are restored quickly.

The Poisoned Well

Details: The well in the village of Kirkliton has been poisoned, causing illness among the villagers. It is suspected that this is the work of a rival faction or a malicious entity. The WestWatchers need a group to travel to Kirkliton, investigate the source of the poisoning, and provide aid to the villagers.

Reward: 90 gold pieces and a supply of healing potions.

Rescue in the Ruins

Details: A group of explorers has gone missing in the ancient ruins south of Westkeep. They were searching for artifacts and historical records. The WestWatchers need volunteers to venture into the ruins, find the missing explorers, and bring them back safely.

Reward: 100 gold pieces and a share of any artifacts recovered.

The Beast of the Highlands

Details: A monstrous beast has been terrorizing the highlands near Westkeep, attacking livestock and frightening travelers. Descriptions of the beast vary, but all agree it is a formidable creature. The WestWatchers need a team to track down and eliminate this beast to ensure the safety of the region.

Reward: 110 gold pieces and the beast's pelt, which is rumored to have magical properties.

---

Near By and Notable - Places of Interest

Salmonsen Mine, nestled in HEX - 0415, serves as a significant source of employment and wealth for Westkeep. The mine, now under the control of Andre Salmonsen, has a notorious reputation for its questionable practices and the enigmatic figure at its helm. Located just off the The Gauntlet Road, it is strategically placed to be accessible yet distant enough from the immediate dangers of the Darkwood Forest, making it an ideal location for various nefarious activities.

---

The Rabid Wolf Tavern stands as a gritty, infamous establishment just East of Westkeep Watchtower in HEX-0415 a short walk from the The Gauntlet Road, attracting a rough clientele that includes mine workers, criminals, and thrill-seekers. Managed by Stanwyck Bernard McCall, a retired adventurer with a murky past, the tavern is known for its strong ale, raucous atmosphere, and the darker pleasures of the flesh, gambling, and brawling.

---

The Grigsby Farmstead is a renowned bison farm situated half a day’s travel northwest of Westkeep in HEX - 0215. Nestled on the edge of a dense forest and crag field, it is one of the most remote farms in the area. Managed by the elderly couple, Hab and Hilda Grigsby, the farm is known not only for its robust bison herd but also for Hilda's legendary blueberry pies.

---

Near By and Notable - Adventuring Sites