Garrison

In ages past, the Alorian Empire was beset in the north by monsters and barbarians that would venture through the Black Rock Pass to rampage and pillage the countryside and the fertile plains south of the Crystal Peak Mountains. Imperial commanders stationed troops nearby to defend against the incursions. The troops had initially been dispatched as a temporary measure, but the threat proved to be ongoing and so a more permanent presence was warranted. A fort was constructed on a natural bluff situated at a bend in the Crystal River because it held a commanding view of the surrounding area and provided easy access to the river.
As time passed, a settlement grew up around the original fort and when veins of ore and precious metals were discovered in the mountains and hills nearby there was no turning back. The locals began to call it simply "the garrison" and so the city was born. With the fall of Aloria, Garrison was one of the few cities that survived. Throughout the years, the settlement has served as a first line of defense for the farmlands to the south and has become known as the Shield of the North.
Garrison has grown into a city-state of considerable power and wealth. The mines nearby provide the raw materials for the many craftsman in the city as well as a lucrative export to ship down the river to markets all over Valoria. Rich farmlands dot the landscape south of the city providing food enough for the city with plenty left for trade. Vineyards in the foothills of the mountains produce some of the finest wines in northern Valoria.
At the highest point on the old bluff overlooking the city lies the Ebon Keep, a one-hundred foot tall ancient square tower made of smooth, black, volcanic rock. Although centuries old, the tower shows no signs of wear. The craft used to build such a structure was known only to the ancient Alorians and has now been lost. The heraldry of the city-state is thus an image of the Ebon Keep upon a silver shield.
The old city is surrounded by a 15-foot tall stone wall, weathered and pock-marked with age. The streets and plazas within are gray cobblestone laid out evenly and with great precision. The old city is home to the wealthiest citizens, the seat of government and many religious temples.

Demographics

Human 60% Elf 15% Dwarf 10% Halfling 4% Gnome 4% Dragonborn 4% Tiefling 3%

Government

Garrison is a powerful city-state which extends it's influence east into the Jawbone Hills, north into the Crystal Peak Mountains, west along the plains bordering the Blighted Waste and south to Little Ferry a settlement that Garrisonians view as a protectorate.
Taxes are collected on all forms of trade going up and down the river ranging from metals and ores to livestock and produce. The small settlements spread throughout the region pay taxes when trading with the city, but their main contribution is supplying both people and materials for the local militias which are organized from Garrison. Officers from the city are assigned to each major settlement and are responsible for training the militias to provide security for the common folk. Otherwise, local settlements are allowed to run their own affairs. 
Garrison is run by a High Council representing the major interests of the city. The members consist of:

• High Justicar of the Temple of Dalana
• Commandant of the Ebon Bastion
• Guildmaster of the Brotherhood of Miners
• Guildmaster of the Merchants Consortium
• Harbor Master of the Stevedores
• Representative of the Grangers

With the exception of the Grangers, these seats are for life. The seat of the Grangers is changed every two years. Any other change to the council are based on malfeasance or a change in leadership within the respective organizations themselves.
The High Council is presided over by a nobleman known as the Lord of the Garrison. This position is elected by the noble houses once every four years. It is mainly ceremonial, but can mean great wealth and influence for the presiding noble house. Not only is their voice heard in the council, but they break any ties when the High Council is deadlocked.

Infrastructure

Here are listed some of the more significant elements of infrastructure that Garrison is known for.
Ebon Bastion  - A 100-foot tall tower of smooth black stone at the highest point in the city dating back to the time of Aloria.
Dragonbone Crossing - A massive bridge over the Crystal River that uses the gigantic ribs and back bone of a mighty ancient dragon that was slain after attacking the city.
Sewers - Garrison has an extensive sewer system that runs through almost the entire city helping to keep filth off the streets.

Assets

Here are listed some of the more well-known shops in the city:
Zander's Scriptorium - a fine repository of books and scrolls both magical and mundane.
Wanda's World of Wonder's - a shop filled with exotic items from across the continent and beyond.
Hammerforge - a dwarven smithy known for fine weapons and armor and for mithril.
Here are listed some of the more prominent taverns and inns within the city:
Crossroads Tavern - Located at the intersection of five major streets this tavern is always bustling with activity.
The House of Cards - Located on the second and third floor above a warehouse, this establishment hosts all manner of card games and gambling.
The Drunken Dragon - a bustling tavern located near the docks, it serves good drinks and decent food and is filled with lively patrons of all races almost all day long.
The Golden Goblet - A high-end tavern serving some of the most expensive and rare wines and liquors that can be found anywhere in Valoria.

Shield of the Garrisonian Army

by William Simoni

Garrison

Founding Date

425 BF

Alternative Name(s)

Shield of the North

Type

Large city

Population

55,400

Inhabitant Demonym

Garrisonian

Location under

Crystal Peak Mountains

Included Locations

• Dragonbone Crossing
• Ebon Bastion
• Fortress of the Vigilant