First Hearth
The First Hearth Orphanage is a large and imposing building, located in The Slums of the capital, Arine. Once a noble house, it was long abandoned and had fallen into a fair amount of disrepair from looters, squatters, and the other ne’er-do-wells. Eventually the building was seized and repurposed at the bequest of the Dowager Empress, Titania Volker, for a more practical and serviceable use to the Monarchy and the Empire. The building is made of rough-hewn stone, and it stands several stories tall. The windows are small and narrow, and they are adorned with iron bars to protect the children inside. The orphanage's exterior is fortified, to keep the children safe from the dangers of The Slums.
Upon entering the First Hearth, visitors are greeted by a large, but dreary foyer, with a high ceiling and a flagstone floor. The walls are adorned with simple, but faded and torn tapestries and banners of Sigils of Houses across Salvae and Kalbela as a whole. The foyer leads to an old and rickety staircase, which takes you to the upper levels of the building.
The upper levels of the First Hearth are home to the sleeping quarters and classrooms, where the children are educated. The sleeping quarters are large and drafty, with rows of bunk beds and a fireplace to keep the children warm at night. The classrooms are dimly lit and equipped with the bare necessities for education.
The First Hearth also has a large, kitchen and dining hall to the west of the foyer, where the children are fed simple easily-made meals. The kitchen is staffed by a few novice cooks, who prepare meals that are palatable at the very least on most days. The dining hall is a large and drab space, with long tables and benches, where the children can eat and socialize together.
The First Hearth also has a small, but rudimentary infirmary, where the children can receive medical attention if they are injured or ill. The infirmary has the basic equipment to treat injuries and illnesses, but more serious situations require a healer or medicine man to make a house call.
The First Hearth Orphanage’s owner, a female Half-Orc named Katazira Stormheart , is strong of body and a loving woman, but tough as nails. She is the one who runs the orphanage with a firm but caring hand. She provides a home-like atmosphere for the children, who are often dealing with tough situations and difficult life circumstances.
