Empire - User contributions [en]

Photography

2026-05-13T12:23:39Z

Rafferty:

==Overview==
Photography in LRP is a compromise: on the one hand are the rights of attendees who do not wish to be photographed coupled with the impact on immersion for all players by the photographer's presence. On the other hand many players wish to enjoy a photographic record of their character and the events they attended and photographs can help to publicize, promote and improve a game. These guidelines are intended to set a balance between these compromises which we feel is appropriate for Profound Decisions events.

We ask that photographers do not release their photographs under a Creative Commons license or similar, since this will give up any rights they would have to pass along take-down requests to those who have used their photos. They are, of course, free to grant usage rights to third parties, but should retain as much ability to enforce take-down requests as they feasibly can when doing so.

==Rules for Photographers==
These rules apply to all photographers, players and crew at our events. Tom Garnett is in charge of photography at our events. Please use [mailto:photography@profounddecisions.co.uk photography@profounddecisions.co.uk] for all inquiries about photography at our events.

===Minimising the Damage to Immersion===
*'''Wear costume whenever you are in an IC area'''
*'''No flash photography on the IC field'''
*'''Avoid standing in player's line of sight when shooting'''
*'''If possible cover your camera to make it as unobtrusive as possible'''
*'''Do not stage shots with players on the IC field'''

Everyone who is taking photographs at events needs to take all possible steps to minimise the damage to immersion that their OOC presence causes. In line with the normal PD event rules, you must wear costume when you are in the IC area. In addition you should try to cover your camera if possible. Flash photography isn't permitted in the IC areas, nor is staging shots with players. If you need to use a flash or stage a shot then please do so from the OOC field.

The most important thing is to try and remain "outside the focus" of the game. If a verbal clash is occurring, then you should not be between the participants and other players; if a battle is occurring then you should be well away from the lines of combatants. This will limit the range of photographs that you can take at the event, but is a compromise that we require all photographers to make to ensure that you avoid being in the line of sight of players who are trying to roleplay while you are taking photographs.
{{CaptionedImage|file=TomGarnett.jpg|align=right|caption=Head of Photography: Tom Garnett|width=300}}
==Sale of Photographs==
* '''Do not sell photographs outside the LRP community without the express permission of the people in the photo'''
Photographing at PD events is undertaken on the understanding that while you may freely sell your work within the larp community - and to their friends and family - you shall not sell photographs more widely without the explicit permission of the identifiable major subjects.

This is intended to balance the interests of photographers against the ability of participants to control how they are portrayed to the wider world. Any questions about this policy, or how it applies to specific situations, should be addressed to PD by email.

===Take-down Requests===
*'''All photographers must take reasonable steps to respect player's privacy'''
*'''You must take down any photograph that you are asked to remove by a subject in the photo'''
Not all participants at an LRP event are fortunate enough to be unconcerned about images of themselves dressed in costume appearing on the internet. Given the size of the game it is impossible to maintain an effective list of individuals who do not wish to be photographed, but all photographers should take reasonable steps to try to avoid photographing players they know do not wish images of them live-roleplaying to be made public.

In particular photographers must remove any image that they have published, if they are requested to do so by a participant who is identifiable in the photograph, as quickly as practical. Any photographers who do not remove photographs when requested will have their right to attend future PD events permanently revoked.

==Filming and Audio Recordings==
* '''We do not allow filming by outside organizations at our events without prior permission'''
* '''You may not film or record other participants in the IC area during time-in'''
* '''You must have the consent of anyone you film; you may never film covertly at our events'''

Commercial TV production outfits are not permitted to film at our events without our prior consent. Live role-players and film-students or enthusiasts are permitted to film explicitly consenting subjects in areas that are not in-character - we anticipate this being used for things like reaction videos, and one-to-one interviews.

All requests for permission to film participants engaged in live-roleplaying in the IC-area during time-in at our events will be refused. Our goal is to minimise any disruption to immersion and to ensure that all participants are able to attend the event in the knowledge that Profound Decisions have done everything possible to ensure that they are not filmed without their consent. As a result covert filming of any part of the event is not permitted.

The one case where filming within the IC area may be allowed is where a person or group wishes to record an out-of-character "piece to camera" about their event, in private, and the most suitable space available is their own tent (in the in-character field). Since this will risk neither disrupting the game, nor capturing the roleplay of other participants, we will usually be happy to grant permission provided that we know what you are planning.

As with all rules, if you are uncertain about how they might apply to your specific case, we strongly encourage you to contact us and discuss your situation.

These restrictions include making audio recordings. You may not make audio recordings in the IC area during time-in. You may not record without the explicit consent of those you are recording.

==Crew Photographers==
*'''There are two crew photographers at our events'''
*'''Our crew photography department allocates photography slots for battles and skirmishes'''

Tom Garnett and Oliver Facey attend our events as part of our crew to take photographs. Their goal is to produce photographs of the event to help promote and improve the game. We do not require any further crew photographers at this time.

If you wish to take photographs on a battle or skirmish then you must [mailto:photography@profounddecisions.co.uk email the crew photographers] to see if a slot is free.
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-160528-0470web.jpg|align=right|width=700}}

==Player Photographers==
*'''All other photographers attending the event must purchase a ticket'''

Everyone who has purchased a ticket to attend the event is welcome to take photographs in the main IC area if they wish to do so, provided that they follow the rules for photographers at our events.

==Battle and Skirmish Photography==
*'''Slots to photograph the battles and skirmishes are allocated by our crew photographers'''
*'''Photographing a battle is not an alternative to monstering'''

We have chosen to limit the number of slots available for players taking to the battlefield to take photographs in an attempt to ensure that the battles and skirmishes remain as immersive as possible. If you wish to take photographs on the battlefield then please [mailto:photography@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] to request access.

Two slots will be used on most battles by our crew photographers - if they are not photographing a battle or skirmish then additional slots will become free.

Photographing a battle is not considered an alternative to monstering. If players wish to fight in a battle as their character they will still need to monster a battle as well.

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:28:59Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
===Celesti Lighthouse===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], its beacon repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Celesti Lighthouse Keeper

2026-05-13T11:28:44Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=left|width=400}}
===Overview===
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is an [[Imperial title]], originally [[Construct the Celesti Lighthouse II|created]] by the [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] [[Civilian Commissioner]] in Winter 380YE. Almost seven years later, at the Autumn Equinox 387YE, '''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', as [[Feroz#Recent_Senate_Elections|Senator for Feroz]], raised the motion to [[Repair Celesti Lighthouse|repair]] the damage done to the Celesti Lighthouse. The [[#The Celesti Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]] itself is built near the town of [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oran]], in [[Feroz]]; a stone tower topped with a massive beacon of polished mithril mirrors.

===Responsibilities===
The Lighthouse Keeper is expected to ensure the Celesti Lighthouse remains functional, providing a beacon to sailors along the coast of Feroz. They would also be the responsible for dealing with any threats to the Lighthouse - or in theory to Oran itself - but would also to deal with any [[opportunity]] related to the Celesti lighthouse.

==Powers==
===Crystals for Celesti===
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is a [[ministry]]. The Keeper can purchase quantities of crystal mana from mariners and ship-captains that visit Oran, buying at a set price. The Keeper makes their decision how much money to spend during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mariners' Mana'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 Crowns</td><td>8 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>17 Crowns</td><td>16 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>35 Crowns</td><td>25 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>48 Crowns</td><td>33 mana crystals</td></tr>
</table></div>

===Light in the Storm===
''Fotismos'', herald of [[Kimus]], has pledged to provide the Celesti Lighthouse Keeper with a fragment of the material from which the light was made, creating an unbreakable link between the lighthouse and the Keeper. As long as the Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is included as an additional target of a ritual, the effective magnitude of any [[divination]] cast on [[Feroz]] is increased by 10 for the purpose of overcoming shrouds, and any performance of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] has its magnitude increased by 30 for the purposes of removing shrouds or effects that obscure or conceal the territory.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|align=right|title=A herald of Kimus offers aid for as long as that eternal is not under enmity.|width=200}}
Furthermore, as long as Kimus is not placed under enmity, a performance of Piercing Light of Revelation specifically intended for that purpose could be used to destroy any curse of storm or ruin targeting Feroz - such as [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]] or [[Thunderous Deluge]] - provided the magnitude of the ritual is at least three times the magnitude of the target curse.

==Appointment==
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is appointed during the Winter Solstice each year. It is chosen by unanimous decision of the [[senator|senators]] of [[the Brass Coast]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by any Freeborn citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]] of the Brass Coast, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{RecentElections|Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper}}
==The Celesti Lighthouse==
The Celesti lighthouse was originally constructed as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was intended to serve not only as a navigation aid but also to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships. As befitting Barabbas’ grand [[ambition]], the structure was significantly larger than was strictly appropriate to the traffic through a moderate-sized coastal town - making it an object of fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar.

Unfortunately, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Following the liberation of Feroz, the lighthouse was left in remarkable shape; the foundations remain, though the burnished mirrors have long since been looted, and it still serves as an intimidating sight above the cliffs of Oran. This did not prevent the Children of Wrecks seeking to [[Send_for_me#Butcher's_Yard_(Feroz)|bring it down]] in Winter 386YE - another thumb to the eye of the Freeborn. Fortunately, the [[Strategos|Strategos of the Brass Coast]], '''Gael i Guerra''', organised a warband of Imperial heroes to ensure the wreckers were defeated, and so the tower at least still stands.

In Summer 387YE, an [[appraisal]] by [[Appraisal#Eilian Sweetwater|Eilian Sweetwater]] presented a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|proposal]] for restoring the ruined lighthouse to its former glories. The [[Senate]] approved [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Repair_Celesti_Lighthouse|the construction work]], which was completed shortly before the Winter Solstice. The beacon now once again shines its beam of brilliant light across the treacherous waters of the Cazar Straits, and the mist-shrouded Bay of Oran. These beams can penetrate even the worst weather conditions, thanks to the inclusion of a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#Light_in_the_Storm|magically infused lamp]] empowered by the [[eternal]] [[Kimus]].

The heart of this lamp is the ''watchstone'', installed by the [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|herald]] ''Fotismos''. The light is unquenchable, and provides several other benefits. Everyone in the Bay of Catazar knows exactly where they are in relation to this magical beacon. It serves as a reminder to hostile forces in the bay that the lighthouse - and the Freeborn nation it represents - defies them. Even the Grendel navies know the light is there, and cannot help but be reminded that no matter what they do to the Brass Coast, they will never submit. The light serves to raise the morale of the corsair families, and even has an impact on the pirates and privateers of the Bay.

It also helped restore the confidence of the common folk around the Bay that the Freeborn Corsairs are looking out for them. This allowed the Senate an opportunity to restore the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], which had previously been lost during the invasion of the Grendel. It also created a unique opportunity for Imperial vessels to [[Voyage#Patrol the Bay of Catazar|patrol the Bay of Catazar]], helping anyone who gets into trouble, and also being alert for any signs of threat or peculiar developments at sea or on its shore.

Obviously, if the Lighthouse were destroyed or looted again these benefits would be lost - one reason Fotismos in particular was eager to stress that a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A Vigilant Light|larger, fortified lighthouse]] was a much better bet than the smaller, less defensible, version.
===History===
The original architectural plans were put together in collaboration with the [[hakima]] known as the Celesti, ensuring that it was built with a distinctly Freeborn aesthetic. While the original lighthouse was portrayed outside the Coast as something of a white elephant, the Freeborn appreciated the beautiful structure as much for its aesthetic as for its value as a beacon. The most significant contribution of the Celesti however - and perhaps the real reason for their inclusion in the project - was the beacon. The Celesti’s home since the founding of the Brass Coast is a reclusive monastery near the summit of the [[Kahraman#The_Gilded_Peak|Gilded Peak]] in [[Kahraman]]. Here they conducted extensive research on the natural phenomenon that gave the summit its name, and the peaks are rich with [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and mithril with which they crafted fine mirrors to recreate the golden light of the peaks.

Barabbas had originally planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great flotilla sailed past on its way to conquer the Grendel. It was perhaps an ill omen that due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon and only the tower itself was finished. With Barabbas' death just a few days after, funding for coastal projects abruptly stopped, and there was little interest from Senate in finishing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. With no further money forthcoming, it proved impossible to complete the lighthouse.

For the past century, a small group of Guerra hakima have kept a large bonfire lit at night in the otherwise empty beacon room to maintain its function as an aid to sailors through the treacherous isles and sandbanks of the southern coast. Though using only a simple bonfire the beacon is nowhere near as clear or bright as was intended. Tourists and pilgrims to the site have provided enough funds to keep the structure itself in fair condition, though never enough to build its complex beacon.

In 380YE, Ahraz i Guerra, one of the remaining hakima of the Celesti, raised the funds necessary to complete the beacon and recovered the plans from the Celesti archives. The work was then authorised by the [[Civilian Commissioner]] for the Brass Coast, thus ensuring that golden light of the Gilded Peaks will, after nearly two long centuries of absence, finally be brought to shine out across the bay; welcoming those from near and far to the Brass Coast.

The lighthouse is situated near the farthest tip of the Oran peninsula at one of its highest points, and was engineered so that its beacon sat a square 500 ft above the sea. Making it visible from the mast of a moderately sized ship for some 30 miles, and enabling navigators to quickly calculate their distance from shore taking into account its known elevation. This makes it a useful navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the many isles and sandbanks of Cazar. By no coincidence, this also makes it visible to the taller structures in Siroc, Oran, and Joharra.

To ensure the monument would not fall into disrepair again, the title "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was created, to be appointed by the Freeborn senators. Keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in Rigia and Kantor, the Keeper was given powers of a ministry and empowered to purchase mana directly from ships captains, ensuring guaranteed prices on the docks of Oran for those willing to sell to civil service factors.

==Further Reading==
*[[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|For those in peril]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune with the opportunity to rebuild the Lighthouse
*[[Send_for_me#Butcher's_Yard_(Feroz)|Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune with details of a skirmish to prevent a force of wreckers from destroying the Lighthouse
*[[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]] - 383YE Winter wind of fortune on the fate of the Lighthouse following the conquest of Feroz

<ic>I was always happy to discuss matters with the families, it was after all what hakima did. In fact I made a point when I first moved to the keeper's lodgings in the base of the tower to oversee construction that I introduce myself to the locals. That my door was always open. I was not however expecting to be visited by a troupe of townsfolk at such an unsocial hour of night. I pulled my robe closer against the icy sea breeze rolling over the cliffs."

“It’s a metaphor you see”

I was attempting to answer their question of “what was all this about”. As the town had been using the lighthouse, even its diminished capacity, for the past two centuries I assumed they were well aware of its literal function and was attempting to explain the wider implications and intricacies.

“Two centuries ago Emperor Barabbas invited the Celesti as hakima to design this lighthouse not just because of their expertise in the matter, but for its symbolic importance. We as hakima serve to advise and guide the nation so that it may make the best decisions. The Celesti oath makes reference to bringing the light of Wisdom to all the Families. Thus this lighthouse doesn’t just serve a literal purpose in providing a light by which sailors may navigate; but it is a metaphor for the light that the hakima shine to guide the Families.”

The man in the lead of the small group sucked his teeth and thought on this for a moment.

“That may be the case good sir

But we would much appreciate it if the hakima didn’t shine their light of Wisdom through our bedroom windows when we are trying to sleep”</ic>
<small><sup>Original text from Charles Philip Wilkinson</sup></small>
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The Brass Coast]]

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:28:14Z

Rafferty: /* Celesti Lighthouse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
===Celesti Lighthouse===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], its beacon repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:27:58Z

Rafferty: /* Morajasse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
===Celesti Lighthouse===
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], its beacon repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:27:48Z

Rafferty: /* Oranseri */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
===Celesti Lighthouse===
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], its beacon repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:27:07Z

Rafferty: /* Celesti Lighthouse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
===Celesti Lighthouse===
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:26:48Z

Rafferty: /* Temple of Balo and the Black Bull */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
==Celesti Lighthouse==
Situated near the farthest tip of the [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]] peninsula, at one of its highest points, is the [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]]. Nearly five hundred feet tall - a wonder of the Empire that once rivalled the [[Madruga#The_Shining_Pillar_(Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] of [[Madruga]] - it was originally commissioned as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. Intended to serve both as a navigation aid and to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships, the structure was much larger than it needed to be - making it an object of ribald fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar. Barabbas planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great armada sailed past on its way to conquer Attar but due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon, and only the tower itself was finished.

Following the destruction of the Barabbine Fleet, funding for coastal projects abruptly ceased, and there was little Senate interest in completing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. In 380YE, however, '''Ahraz i Guerra''' of the Celesti - the hakima who tended the empty tower - raised the money necessary to complete the beacon. For several years, the golden light of the Gilded Peaks shone out across the Bay, welcoming travellers to the Brass Coast, and providing a vital navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the isles and sandbanks of [[Feroz#Cazar Strits|Cazar]]. The "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was charged with maintaining the tower; keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Sadly, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Who promptly wrecked it.

In 387YE, the lighthouse was restored to its former glory; or more properly surpassed it. Rebuilt, it was furnished with a unique lamp incorporating a boon of [[Kimus]] called the ''watchstone''. The light is now unquenchable, but more than that it ensures that everyone on the Bay of Catazar is aware of exactly where the lighthouse is even if they cannot see it. It has both boosted the morale of the corsair families, and sent a defiant message to the enemies of the Brass Coast. More even than that, the magical lamp has a [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#Light_in_the_Storm|potent connection]] to the new lighthouse keeper that may help keep the Freeborn safe from future attacks against their coast.
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Celesti Lighthouse Keeper

2026-05-13T11:20:47Z

Rafferty: /* The Celesti Lighthouse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|align=left|title=A herald of Kimus offers aid for as long as that eternal is not under enmity.|width=200}}
===Overview===
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is an [[Imperial title]], originally [[Construct the Celesti Lighthouse II|created]] by the [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] [[Civilian Commissioner]] in Winter 380YE. Almost seven years later, at the Autumn Equinox 387YE, '''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', as [[Feroz#Recent_Senate_Elections|Senator for Feroz]], raised the motion to [[Repair Celesti Lighthouse|repair]] the damage done to the Celesti Lighthouse. The [[#The Celesti Lighthouse|Celesti lighthouse]] itself is built near the town of [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oran]], in [[Feroz]]; a stone tower topped with a massive beacon of polished mithril mirrors.

===Responsibilities===
The Lighthouse Keeper is expected to ensure the Celesti Lighthouse remains functional, providing a beacon to sailors along the coast of Feroz. They would also be the responsible for dealing with any threats to the Lighthouse - or in theory to Oran itself - but would also to deal with any [[opportunity]] related to the Celesti lighthouse.

==Powers==
===Crystals for Celesti===
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is a [[ministry]]. The Keeper can purchase quantities of crystal mana from mariners and ship-captains that visit Oran, buying at a set price. The Keeper makes their decision how much money to spend during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mariners' Mana'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 Crowns</td><td>8 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>17 Crowns</td><td>16 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>35 Crowns</td><td>25 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>48 Crowns</td><td>33 mana crystals</td></tr>
</table></div>

===Light in the Storm===
''Fotismos'', herald of [[Kimus]], has pledged to provide the Celesti Lighthouse Keeper with a fragment of the material from which the light was made, creating an unbreakable link between the lighthouse and the Keeper. As long as the Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is included as an additional target of a ritual, the effective magnitude of any [[divination]] cast on [[Feroz]] is increased by 10 for the purpose of overcoming shrouds, and any performance of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] has its magnitude increased by 30 for the purposes of removing shrouds or effects that obscure or conceal the territory.

Furthermore, as long as Kimus is not placed under enmity, a performance of Piercing Light of Revelation specifically intended for that purpose could be used to destroy any curse of storm or ruin targeting Feroz - such as [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]] or [[Thunderous Deluge]] - provided the magnitude of the ritual is at least three times the magnitude of the target curse.

==Appointment==
The Celesti Lighthouse Keeper is appointed during the Winter Solstice each year. It is chosen by unanimous decision of the [[senator|senators]] of [[the Brass Coast]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by any Freeborn citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]] of the Brass Coast, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{RecentElections|Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper}}
==The Celesti Lighthouse==
The Celesti lighthouse was originally constructed as part of the massive investment in coastal ports and defences during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was intended to serve not only as a navigation aid but also to keep a watch for signs of [[Grendel]] ships. As befitting Barabbas’ grand [[ambition]], the structure was significantly larger than was strictly appropriate to the traffic through a moderate-sized coastal town - making it an object of fun for satirists and humourists around the Bay of Catazar.

Unfortunately, when Feroz was conquered by the [[Grendel]], and ceded to the [[orc|orcs]] by the subsequent [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|peace treaty]], the lighthouse came under the dominion of the ruthless and avaricious ''Governor Rahab''. Following the liberation of Feroz, the lighthouse was left in remarkable shape; the foundations remain, though the burnished mirrors have long since been looted, and it still serves as an intimidating sight above the cliffs of Oran. This did not prevent the Children of Wrecks seeking to [[Send_for_me#Butcher's_Yard_(Feroz)|bring it down]] in Winter 386YE - another thumb to the eye of the Freeborn. Fortunately, the [[Strategos|Strategos of the Brass Coast]], '''Gael i Guerra''', organised a warband of Imperial heroes to ensure the wreckers were defeated, and so the tower at least still stands.

In Summer 387YE, an [[appraisal]] by [[Appraisal#Eilian Sweetwater|Eilian Sweetwater]] presented a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|proposal]] for restoring the ruined lighthouse to its former glories. The [[Senate]] approved [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Repair_Celesti_Lighthouse|the construction work]], which was completed shortly before the Winter Solstice. The beacon now once again shines its beam of brilliant light across the treacherous waters of the Cazar Straits, and the mist-shrouded Bay of Oran. These beams can penetrate even the worst weather conditions, thanks to the inclusion of a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#Light_in_the_Storm|magically infused lamp]] empowered by the [[eternal]] [[Kimus]].

The heart of this lamp is the ''watchstone'', installed by the [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|herald]] ''Fotismos''. The light is unquenchable, and provides several other benefits. Everyone in the Bay of Catazar knows exactly where they are in relation to this magical beacon. It serves as a reminder to hostile forces in the bay that the lighthouse - and the Freeborn nation it represents - defies them. Even the Grendel navies know the light is there, and cannot help but be reminded that no matter what they do to the Brass Coast, they will never submit. The light serves to raise the morale of the corsair families, and even has an impact on the pirates and privateers of the Bay.

It also helped restore the confidence of the common folk around the Bay that the Freeborn Corsairs are looking out for them. This allowed the Senate an opportunity to restore the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], which had previously been lost during the invasion of the Grendel. It also created a unique opportunity for Imperial vessels to [[Voyage#Patrol the Bay of Catazar|patrol the Bay of Catazar]], helping anyone who gets into trouble, and also being alert for any signs of threat or peculiar developments at sea or on its shore.

Obviously, if the Lighthouse were destroyed or looted again these benefits would be lost - one reason Fotismos in particular was eager to stress that a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A Vigilant Light|larger, fortified lighthouse]] was a much better bet than the smaller, less defensible, version.
===History===
The original architectural plans were put together in collaboration with the [[hakima]] known as the Celesti, ensuring that it was built with a distinctly Freeborn aesthetic. While the original lighthouse was portrayed outside the Coast as something of a white elephant, the Freeborn appreciated the beautiful structure as much for its aesthetic as for its value as a beacon. The most significant contribution of the Celesti however - and perhaps the real reason for their inclusion in the project - was the beacon. The Celesti’s home since the founding of the Brass Coast is a reclusive monastery near the summit of the [[Kahraman#The_Gilded_Peak|Gilded Peak]] in [[Kahraman]]. Here they conducted extensive research on the natural phenomenon that gave the summit its name, and the peaks are rich with [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and mithril with which they crafted fine mirrors to recreate the golden light of the peaks.

Barabbas had originally planned to have the lighthouse lit in a dramatic display as his great flotilla sailed past on its way to conquer the Grendel. It was perhaps an ill omen that due to overspending and delays, construction hadn’t yet started on the complex beacon and only the tower itself was finished. With Barabbas' death just a few days after, funding for coastal projects abruptly stopped, and there was little interest from Senate in finishing what was largely seen as one of the late Throne's great follies. With no further money forthcoming, it proved impossible to complete the lighthouse.

For the past century, a small group of Guerra hakima have kept a large bonfire lit at night in the otherwise empty beacon room to maintain its function as an aid to sailors through the treacherous isles and sandbanks of the southern coast. Though using only a simple bonfire the beacon is nowhere near as clear or bright as was intended. Tourists and pilgrims to the site have provided enough funds to keep the structure itself in fair condition, though never enough to build its complex beacon.

In 380YE, Ahraz i Guerra, one of the remaining hakima of the Celesti, raised the funds necessary to complete the beacon and recovered the plans from the Celesti archives. The work was then authorised by the [[Civilian Commissioner]] for the Brass Coast, thus ensuring that golden light of the Gilded Peaks will, after nearly two long centuries of absence, finally be brought to shine out across the bay; welcoming those from near and far to the Brass Coast.

The lighthouse is situated near the farthest tip of the Oran peninsula at one of its highest points, and was engineered so that its beacon sat a square 500 ft above the sea. Making it visible from the mast of a moderately sized ship for some 30 miles, and enabling navigators to quickly calculate their distance from shore taking into account its known elevation. This makes it a useful navigation aid for those attempting to traverse the many isles and sandbanks of Cazar. By no coincidence, this also makes it visible to the taller structures in Siroc, Oran, and Joharra.

To ensure the monument would not fall into disrepair again, the title "Celesti Lighthouse Keeper" was created, to be appointed by the Freeborn senators. Keen to promote trade with the newly opened foreign ports in Rigia and Kantor, the Keeper was given powers of a ministry and empowered to purchase mana directly from ships captains, ensuring guaranteed prices on the docks of Oran for those willing to sell to civil service factors.

==Further Reading==
*[[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|For those in peril]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune with the opportunity to rebuild the Lighthouse
*[[Send_for_me#Butcher's_Yard_(Feroz)|Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune with details of a skirmish to prevent a force of wreckers from destroying the Lighthouse
*[[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]] - 383YE Winter wind of fortune on the fate of the Lighthouse following the conquest of Feroz

<ic>I was always happy to discuss matters with the families, it was after all what hakima did. In fact I made a point when I first moved to the keeper's lodgings in the base of the tower to oversee construction that I introduce myself to the locals. That my door was always open. I was not however expecting to be visited by a troupe of townsfolk at such an unsocial hour of night. I pulled my robe closer against the icy sea breeze rolling over the cliffs."

“It’s a metaphor you see”

I was attempting to answer their question of “what was all this about”. As the town had been using the lighthouse, even its diminished capacity, for the past two centuries I assumed they were well aware of its literal function and was attempting to explain the wider implications and intricacies.

“Two centuries ago Emperor Barabbas invited the Celesti as hakima to design this lighthouse not just because of their expertise in the matter, but for its symbolic importance. We as hakima serve to advise and guide the nation so that it may make the best decisions. The Celesti oath makes reference to bringing the light of Wisdom to all the Families. Thus this lighthouse doesn’t just serve a literal purpose in providing a light by which sailors may navigate; but it is a metaphor for the light that the hakima shine to guide the Families.”

The man in the lead of the small group sucked his teeth and thought on this for a moment.

“That may be the case good sir

But we would much appreciate it if the hakima didn’t shine their light of Wisdom through our bedroom windows when we are trying to sleep”</ic>
<small><sup>Original text from Charles Philip Wilkinson</sup></small>
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The Brass Coast]]

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:12:00Z

Rafferty: /* OOC Notes */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:11:35Z

Rafferty: /* Strategic Considerations */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:10:08Z

Rafferty: /* Oranseri */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:03:24Z

Rafferty: /* Morajasse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:03:05Z

Rafferty: /* Morajasse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:59:14Z

Rafferty: /* Fontargenta */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:57:50Z

Rafferty: /* Cazar Straits */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:54:45Z

Rafferty: /* Afarjasse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:54:29Z

Rafferty: /* Afarjasse */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whome were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountain]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:46:44Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:45:57Z

Rafferty: /* Major Features */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Ruined)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:44:58Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Ruined)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.

==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:44:01Z

Rafferty: /* Mora's Rock */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Ruined)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they reamined independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.

==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:41:14Z

Rafferty: /* The Scorrero Nets */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Ruined)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:40:33Z

Rafferty: /* The Spice Gardens of Feroz */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Madruga

2026-05-13T10:36:43Z

Rafferty:

[[Category:Imperial_Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Madruga_Made_Anew.png|align=left|caption=Artist's Impression of Madruga|width=600}}</div>[[Category:Gazetteer]]
== Overview ==
Madruga of the Jewelled Isles is the easternmost territory of the Brass Coast, running from the [[Kahraman]] mountains down to the Bay of Catazar. Down the coast of Madruga and [[Feroz]] the [[corsair|corsairs]] and merchants raise their sails, running goods to [[Bastion]] and [[Sarvos]], trading with foreign powers, and fighting off barbarian incursions.

It is the most densely settled of the Freeborn territories; the nation began here, with the landing of the three sisters and their families at old [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]]. Over generations, their descendants spread across the mainland building and cultivating, until Madruga was tamed. Today, it is scattered with villages and small towns - the sprawling city [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]] at its height rivalled the cities of [[the League]] in size and wealth.

It is the spiritual home of the [[Corsair|corsairs]]; many maritime families have lived on the islands of [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] and [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]] since the earliest days of the Freeborn nation.

The history of Madruga is one of change, however. The [[Grendel]] have attacked the islands and towns here for centuries; usually their fleets are intercepted at sea before they can do too much damage, but there have been times when their raiders have sacked coastal settlements. For a few harrowing months in the years before the foundation of the Empire, the Grendel swept inland here conquering [[#Lightsea|Lightsea]] and the islands, and threatening to burn Siroc. They were turned back after months of vicious fighting, but the memory of their attack is sometimes credited by historians as being a factor in the decision of the Freeborn to join the Empire. Since the disappearance of [[Empress Lisabetta|Imperatrix Lisabetta]], life in the territory has become even more tumultuous, with regular Grendel attacks compounded with deadly magical chaos.
==Recent History==
After the Autumn Equinox 381YE, the [[Grendel]] armada invaded Madruga. They [[381YE Winter Solstice winds of war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the Freeborn Storm]], burnt the [[Madruga#The_Atalaya_Shipyards_.28Ruined.29|Atalaya shipyards]], and brought the [[Black Thorns]] to the brink of annihilation. Their forces then moved against [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]], raided the port of Quzar, and within short order half the coast of Madruga was in their hands. The Empire responded quickly, driving the Grendel out, but it was only a matter of time before they returned.

Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, providing merchants and traders easy access to Freeborn luxuries and allowing the caravans of the Brass Coast to travel much more easily to some of the wealthiest cities across the Empire. For more than half a decade the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] of the territory. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].

In the Winter of 385YE, the Grendel returned to Madruga in force, accompanied by warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. In a surprise attack, they [[A beacon of smoke|burnt the city of Siroc]], and established a beachhead in what was then Siroc Plains. In the coming months, war and powerful [[Spring magic]] battered the region, culminating in the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|destruction of the Silent Pillar]] and the formation of the [[Children of Wrecks]]. The [[Siakha]]-inspired pirates began a rampage of their own, even going so far as to use Spring magic to isolate the islands of Free Landing, turning them into a stronghold of their own that Imperial armies cannot approach.

As if this were not bad enough, a [[Colourblind|peculiar blight]] began to spread across the [[#Quiet Grasses|Great Grasses]] in the north-east. The grasslands were quickly turned to ash and dust, and the desiccating [[Winter magic]] threatened to spill over into [[Kahraman]] and [[Segura]]. The cause of the spreading desert was discovered to be a generations-old conspiracy of the ''Aldea di Tutamen'' family who had become awful harbingers of destruction called the Dry Patricians. Their awful threat was stopped by Imperial heroes, but the blight remained.

Then in Autumn 386YE, ritual magicians from every Freeborn [[tribe]] raised the wrath of the Scorrero river, causing it to [[Where the river rises|break its banks]] in a cataclysmic expression of [[Spring magic#Ruin|ruin]] and [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]]. A cleansing tide swept across the Great Grasses, washing away the remnants of the blight. In the process, however, the magical floods also transformed the southern reaches of the territory, leaving three new regions that, as the Winter Solstice 386YE approaches, are still being carefully explored.

== Major Features ==
===Trajadoz===
The town of Trajadoz in north-western [[#Torres|Torres]] was founded roughly three hundred years ago by the Trajaduz family of traders who were intent on fostering trade between the mines of newly conquered [[Kahraman]] and the wealth of [[Sarvos]]. The most recent influx of townsfolk was during the invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. Since the reclamation of Segura in 378YE it stood mostly empty, save for a few bandits, as the Freeborn returned to their homes. Following the end of the rebellion in Marracoss and Emphedor Imperial fleet captains had an opportunity to [[Through_my_sails#Evacuation|evacuate some of the defeated rebels]]. Roughly a third of the refugees, offered sanctuary in the Empire, have [[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|taken up residence]] in the mostly abandoned town, and created a community.

The Marracossans (never Nemorians, and rarely accepting Asavean) are a disparate group; made up of priests and soldiers, crafters and traders. One of their number Leonorada Rousseau, [[Asavean_Archipelago#Religion|priest of Aseus]], has spent some time in the paradors of nearby [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos]]. They have made clear that they, and their community, like the Empire, and they like the town of Tradajoz. They wish to remain in the town, but Leonorada understands that the community's intent to continue following and worshipping their gods could lead to some unfortunate accusations. In Winter 384YE, the Imperial Senate [[Cede Trajadoz|ceded control of Trajadoz]] to the Nemorians. This has raised a few concerns among their neighbours as it frees them to build temples to their gods if they wish - and indeed to do anything else they want to do. You can read more about the Marracossans in the '''[[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|Large but far away]]''' wind of fortune.
===Calvos===
The bustling town of Calvos lies on the shores of [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]]. The slopes outside the town are rich with grapes, and the fine wines produced here travel all over the Empire. Even the sommeliers of the [[The League|League]] pay well for a Calvos vintage. The [[Paragons and Exemplars|exemplar]] [[Zemress|Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo]] was born here towards the end of the second century YE, and her ship ''The Kraken's Bane'' is housed at a special dry dock here. The ship is a destination for many pilgrims of [[Prosperity]] from as far afield as the [[Sumaah Republic]], as was the nearby [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary]] before it was destroyed in a [[Below_the_thunders#In_Roaring,_Rise|cataclysmic storm]]. Near the seminary ruins stands the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]], a place dedicated to supporting refugees to the Empire, especially those who seek a new family among the Freeborn, and the [[#Zemress Naval Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] (also known as the School of Blood and Brass) where the Freeborn study maritime warfare and the construction of warships.
===Zemress Naval Academy===
[[#Calvos|Calvos]] is the final resting place of the Kraken's Bane, the legendary vessel captained by the exemplar [[Zemress]]. When people fled [[Feroz]] following the Grendel occupation, many of those who looked to Zemress chose to settle in Calvos, drawn by the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary of Zemress]] (before it was destroyed). They swelled the ranks of the faithful and created a unique opportunity to build a ''School of Naval Warfare'' on the Coast. Similar to the ambitious [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|School of Shipbuilding]] originally [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|proposed for Siroc by Frederick di Sarvos]], it is more limited in its scope and focussed purely on teaching and research.

The school allows the Freeborn to delve deep into the practice and theory of [[navy|naval warfare]], allowing them to disseminate newly developed techniques across the Brass Coast and the Empire. Each year the researchers at the school present three possible [[Army qualities|qualities]] that new Imperial navies might be built with. The [[fleet|fleet owners]] of the Brass Coast are then able to vote on which quality they felt was most important - whichever quality wins becomes the focus on their research. Such research often takes a year or more, but once work is complete the Freeborn can again vote on what project to being next (researchers present a new quality to consider, usually alongside the two previously rejected options).

It's notable that several of visiting [[Sumaah]] präster pointed out that if the Empire were prepared to share any new naval techniques they learned with the Republic, then that would be very well received by their fellow adherents of the Way. The Sumaah apparently have two navies of their own, but they are outclassed by the Asaveans, in much the same way that the Empire struggle to compete with the Grendel navies. Redressing that balance would be a huge boost to diplomatic relations with the Sumaah.
{{Anchor|The Lyceum}}

=== The Lyceum (Hidden)===
The Lyceum was established during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] on an island east of Siroc. It is a centre of arcane learning in the Empire, and the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] maintains sumptuous apartments here. Approach to the island is carefully controlled by the magicians and professors, and the most promising magicians are invited to study or teach there.

During the Winter Solstice 385YE, Imperial heroes [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Intercede_at_the_Lyceum_(Battle)|travelled to the Lyceum]] to protect its secrets from the Grendel who sought to claim them. In the process, they activated powerful wards that hid the island behind a wall of fog preventing barbarian or Imperial ships from reaching it. The walls were expected to remain until shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE, but with both the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks threatening the college, the [[Conclave]] accepted an offer from [[Sadogua]] to help [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Sadogua,_Amity|keep the wards up for the time being]] with an eye towards finding a way to get people in and out, and perhaps make the misty wards permanent.

===Atalaya===
The town of Atalaya in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] marks the place where the Brass Coast was born; the first landing of the three sisters and their families. Built around the side of a secluded cove, the seas around the island that share its name are a navigational nightmare. Before the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] was built, reaching the hidden docks of Atalaya was a feat to tax the most skilled ship's crews. Today, the landwards channel has been widened but is protected by hidden obstructions that only the Freeborn pilots know well. Atalaya is also known for its deep natural harbour - many ships of the Freeborn fleet count Atalaya as their home port.

Atalaya is the oldest Freeborn settlement in the Brass Coast, but its prominence was eclipsed centuries ago by [[#Lightsea|Quzar]]. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage for many Freeborn followers of [[the Way]] - there are a number of shrines and temples dedicated to [[Pride]] and [[Vigilance]] here. The [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel#School of the Sanguine Bloom|School of the Sanguine Bloom]], one of the most prestigious schools dedicated to herb-lore in the Brass Coast also stands here, founded long ago by Sameen i Riqueza, youngest daughter of [[Riqueza]] herself.

With the rise of the [[Children of Wrecks]], the oldest settlement of the Freeborn has been lost to the nation. The museums have been looted, and the once beautiful town transformed into a den of pirates.

===Freeborn Flame Marina===
Work began on the [[Construct_Atalaya_Harbour|reconstruction]] of Atalaya harbour following an opportunity [[The_power_behind_our_moves#Atalaya|presented]] after the National Assembly of the Brass Coast called on the people of Feroz to flee the territory rather than suffer under the hands of the Grendel. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE and the abundance of willing, talented shipwrights meant [[fleet|fleets]] were more easily upgradeable, at least until the Brass Coast reclaim Feroz. Unfortunately, along with Atalaya, the Freeborn Flame Marina is currently in the hands of the Children of Wrecks.

On the harbour, looking out to sea, are a number of statues each one different but reminiscent of contemporary Freeborn.

===Sunset Roads===
{{Anchor|South-West Roads}}With encouragement from the notoriously sea-averse Faraden, a grand highway connects Siroc with Calvos, cutting across the territory rather than following the coast. A shorter road runs along the northern banks of the Scorrero, crossing just north of [[Segura#Cerevado|Cerevado]] in [[Segura]] via a beautiful arched bridge of white granite. While the road is used extensively by the Faraden, it also serves to cut the journey time from the northern borders of Madruga to the trading city of Siroc, making it a popular route for Freeborn and League merchants as well.

The Sunset Roads are a [[great work]] that complement the already existing [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Blood Red Roads|Blood Red Roads]], bringing increased prosperity to the owners of [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] in Madruga.

=== The Spider's Dream ===
An elegant bridge spans the river Vassa, connecting [[#Torres|Torres]] to the town of [[Sarvos#Bocche|Trivento]] in Sarvos. It is a marvellous piece of engineering that resembles a spider's web. The [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider%27s_Dream|Spider's Dream]] has significant strategic importance - without it armies cannot cross the Vassa between Sarvos and Madruga without going north and passing through Tassato and the Mournwold. It is overseen by the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]], an [[Imperial title]] uniquely appointed by both the [[senator|senators]] of the League and the Brass Coast together.

The Spider's Dream was once severely damaged by the [[Jotun]], but has since been extensively rebuilt and fortified.

==Regions==
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=MadrugaBorders.png|caption=A very rough region map of pre-transformation Madruga|align=right|width=600}}</div>
===Calvos Sound===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The town of [[#Calvos|Calvos]] stands on the shores of Calvos Sound; the entire [[territory#regions|region]] is named for the great shallow bay that cuts into the eastern shores of the Brass Coast. The waters of the Sound are prime fishing grounds, and the surrounding slopes are known for their rich agriculture, especially grapes, grapefruits, and pomegranates. At the end of the [[Imperial_history#.28281_YE_-_300_YE.29_The_Second_Interregnum|second interregnum]], Calvos Sound was the site of a vicious engagement between [[Grendel]] raiders and the forces of the [[Red_Wind_Corsairs#History|Red Wind Corsairs]]. Despite catastrophic losses, the Freeborn army held. Close to breaking they were forced to retreat, but the campaign achieved its purpose by convincing the nations of the south that the threat from the Grendel was real, events that would eventually lead to the elevation of [[Empress Deanne]]. To this day, many of the people of Calvos Sound have a notable antipathy for the orcs of the Broken Shore.
===Lightsea===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
A well-settled region known for the friendliness of its [[The_Brass_Coast_economic_interests#Paradors|paradors]]. The largest settlement here is '''Quzar''', a bustling port town of white towers and stained glass that is sometimes described as the soul of the Brass Coast. The Towers of Quzar are known as a gathering place for [[hakima]] from all across the nation - an annual "council" meets here every midsummer to share knowledge and gossip. Since the completion of the [[Hakima_of_Salt_and_Sand#Parador_of_Salt_and_Sand|Parador of Salt and Sand]], a large community of hakima, including a significant number of refugees from Feroz, have taken up permanent residence here. The town is now best known for its community of magicians, especially those versed in [[Autumn magic]].

Many of the coastal settlements here were plundered by the Grendel during their incursion toward the end of 381YE. Quzar in particular was hard hit by the orc raiders, with some damage to the town and significant damage to the wealth of the citizens. A year later toward the end of 382YE potent magic [[The_mystic,_the_willful#Miracles_in_Lightsea|restored the town]], wiping away any sign the Grendel were ever there.
===Torres===
The northernmost region of Madruga, and one end of the [[#The Spider's Dream|Spider's Dream]]. The land here is a little more rugged than in the southern regions, and the climate is generally cooler. The people who dwell here share some of the reputation of the miners of [[Kahraman]]; as being suspicious and quarrelsome. Partly this reputation might be a result of regular clashes between Freeborn traders and [[the League|League]] merchants out of [[Sarvos]]. A regular 'problem' for the inhabitants is that League merchants would prefer to travel south to the more prosperous towns of the eastern coast to sell their wares, bypassing the markets of Torres. It is shameful to admit, but there are more incidents of brigandry against League caravans in Torres than in almost any other area around the Bay of Catazar. When such incidents get out of hand, the [[Spider's Tollkeep]] is often prevailed upon to sort them out.

The town of [[#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]] is found in the north-west of Torres. Formerly a home to Freeborn displaced from Kahraman and Segura, it is now home to a very different group of refugees - Marracossan exiles from the [[Asavean Archipelago]].
===Free Landing===
'''Quality:''' Coastal, Island<br>
The sprawling islands that form the region of Free Landing are diverse and well-settled. The islands here were the first home of the Freeborn - the town of [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]] marks the spot where the Brass Coast proper began. When the Grendel invaded Madruga in Winter 381YE, they looted many precious relics from the town of Atalaya and burnt the shipyard there to the ground. In the process, they destroyed the Freeborn [[navy|navy]], the Freeborn Storm.

The waters between the islands have a reputation for being treacherous and difficult for foreign captains; during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] the Empire built a great lighthouse here called '''[[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|the Shining Pillar]]''', which was [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|destroyed]] by forces loyal to the eternal [[Siakha]] during the Winter Solstice 385YE. In its place, a perpetual churning maelstrom serves as a way for servants of the eternal to enter the mortal world and functions as an effective [[fortification]] defending the Children of Wrecks.

The waters around Free Landing have become treacherous due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks. As a result, the region has gained the '''island''' quality, it cannot be attacked by armies unless each army is accompanied by a navy capable of conveying the soldiers across.{{Anchor|Great Grasses}}

===Quiet Grasses===
* '''Qualities:''' Quiet
The Great Grasses were consumed by the Blight, but have now been restored thanks to the surging Spring waters. They are marked not only from the flooding of the Scorrero, but from a year or more of gentle rain conjured with [[Regrow the Land's Heart]]. Where once there was a sea of jade and emerald grasses, and then a lifeless desert of ash and dust, there is now a profusion of plants and flowers. The grass is different to that which grew before, standing easily taller than the tallest soldier and remarkably resistant to damage. Where the thickets of grass are densest, it is slow going trying to make headway and all too easy to get lost. In addition to the grasses, there are large numbers of broad, open meadows covered in ''flameblooms'' - a mass of previously unseen flowers that grow in a profusion of shapes and a riot of reds, oranges, yellows, and an extremely rare white petalled variety.

There is an odd silence to the Grasses now. The grasses seem to eat sounds, causing the cries of circling hawks to fall flat, and even the blaring of horns sounds tinny and can be heard over comparatively short distances. Even the wind whispers as it flows across the plains. Some scouts tagged the place as the "Quiet Grasses," and while the name may have begun as a wry commentary, it has quickly spread. Magicians say that this silence is partly due to a lingering touch of Winter magic - not the harsher resonances [[Winter_magic#Death|death]] or [[Winter_magic#Survival|survival]] but something less tangible - a sense of sadness, loss, or perhaps the [[Winter_magic#Wisdom|wisdom]] that comes from an awareness of [[Winter magic#Ending|ending]], tinged with the wistfulness for the [[Winter_magic#Preservation|way things were before]].
{{Anchor|Siroc Plains}}

===Siroc Bayou===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Coastal, Ruins, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The region that was once Siroc Plains is now the [[Madruga#Siroc Bayou|Siroc Bayou]]. Slow moving streams and lakes of brackish water characterise the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayou bayou]. The river itself, and the gulf between Madruga and Feroz, teem with fish and other creatures. The fury of the Scorrero, already mitigated by the Crucible, loses itself in meandering, shifting streams as it makes its way to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Here and there, ruined Freeborn settlements and structures emerge from the marshes, or stand surrounded by still pools of water. Even though the flooding that transformed the region are quite recent, many of these ruins look as if they have stood in the marshes for decades, heavily overgrown with odd plant growths. Others are more intact, often serving as lairs for the transformed creatures of the marsh. When the river rose, this region was under control of the Grendel, and [[Below_the_thunders#The_Latter_Fire|battle raged]] between the orcs and Imperial forces. The Grendel have since withdrawn almost all their forces, but there are still signs of abandoned encampments here. Some of the Broken Shore troops were left behind as well, and it seems that in the absence of any easy means of escape they have taken up banditry.

The City of Sails, poor ruined [[Madruga#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]], is now lost beneath the waters of the Bay, or consumed by the marsh. There is no chance of rebuilding - there is little left to rebuild on. There is apparently some interest in the [[Sarcophan Delves]] in [[Hyenas_and_herbs#Hyenas_Under_Sail|purchasing salvage rights]] to the ruins, but only once the [[Children of Wrecks]] problem is resolved.

===Crucible===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The new region of Madruga, north of the Scorrero, was once the southern Great Grasses and the western Siroc Plains. This place has been most obviously transfigured by the unleashed magic, and the odd haze reported by scouts is most pronounced here. Even the least magical explorer can sense that there is magic here; a mixture of Spring magic from the flood and the influence of [[Ossegrahn]], or Night magic tinged by the gifts of [[Azoth]], and even a hint of lingering [[Winter magic]] from the Dry Patricians and their Blight. There are reports of a few Grendel camps here as well, scouts trapped behind enemy lines when the flood rushed in.

Scouts report that this area is where the peculiar ''marsh flowers'', some of which possess magical properties, are most abundant. There also seem to be spontaneously occurring sources of [[vis]] here - [[Vis#Warm Honey|warm honey]], [[Vis#Heart's Blood|heart's blood]], and [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]]. In addition, there are a number of oddities - things that either were not here before of have been changed so much as to be effectively new. There is apparently a tower that rises out of the river itself and changes subtly over a course of several days, which puts viewers in mind of a lighthouse despite being miles from the Bay of Catazar. There is a standing pool of ebony water that does not reflect humans or orcs; anything staring into it sees only a monstrous image of themselves. A fountain in the courtyard of an old parador that once stood by the road along the banks of the Scorrero that now flows with rainbow waters; drinking from them by moonlight can prompt a transformation in unlineaged humans such that they unpredictably gain [[briar]], [[naga]] or [[draughir]] [[lineage]].

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Madruga and both Feroz and Segura'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Madruga and both [[Feroz]] and [[Segura]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
==Special Qualities==
===Enigmatic===
* '''Rituals and curses cast on enigmatic regions will be unpredictable and may have more powerful effects'''
* '''Rituals and curses cast on territories with an enigmatic region may be unpredictable or have more powerful effects'''
* '''Such rituals can be made permanent using 2 rings of ilium per magnitude rather than 3'''
* '''Any commission in an enigmatic region can substitute wains of mithril for weirwood or white granite on a one-for-one basis'''
Two of the new regions are marked with a unique quality - ''Enigmatic''. This means the areas are infused with magic of Spring, Winter, and Night. As a consequence, any magic from those realms that operates on the territory level (or the Empire level), or targets the region with this quality, may have unexpected effects. This is not guaranteed - sometimes the ritual will have no noticeable extra impact. Sometimes, however, the impact of the magic will be enhanced in some way - more powerful or more extreme than expected. Even the wisest Unfettered Mind can't say more than that. ('''OOC Note:''' A ritual enchantment or curse will always at least equal or exceed its normal mechanical effect. The magic might be altered but it would never simply be the same effect but ''less'' powerful.)

Any Spring, Winter, or Night ritual that targets a region with a specific quality can target Crucible or Siroc Bayou. For example, even though neither region has the [[forest]] quality, both can be targeted with [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] or [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]]. The form the magic takes may be transformed or altered in unpredictable ways (for example, [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]] cast on one of these regions is likely to cause a cloud of toxic marsh fog rather than volcanic gas).

If [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the victory points necessary to claim the region are increased by fifteen, up from ten.

If [[The Basalt Citadel]] or [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] are cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the resulting battalion or wards will be enhanced such that they provide an additional one thousand effective strength, to four thousand or five thousand strength, respectively.

If the [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] is drawn over a territory where at least one region has the enigmatic quality, its effective magnitude is increased by 10 - the same would apply to any [[Vale of Shadows]] created anywhere in Madruga.

Any territory-wide enchantment or curse, or enchantment or curse targeting one of the two regions is easier to [[Ilium#Using_ilium_in_rituals|make permanent]]. Rather than requiring three rings of [[ilium]] for each magnitude of the effect, it only requires ''two'' rings of ilium per magnitude. The Unfettered Mind scholars warn that this should be approached with some caution - enchantments and curses are rarely meant to be made permanent and experimentation should be done on the understanding that there will be unlooked for side effects. In particular they warn against assuming that a ritual that works one way when cast on Madruga will have the same effect if made permanent with ilium. It might... but it is impossible to be sure given the wildness of the magic coalescing here. Also, if recent events have shown nothing else, this warning is even more significant when dealing with an effect that draws on the power of an eternal.

Any commission built in an enigmatic region can take advantage of the strange magical qualities of the region to substitute mithril for white granite or weirwood on a one-for-one basis. The amount of mithril used must be specified in the details of the commission; it cannot be substituted later. The necessary details should include a description of how mithril, and Freeborn glass, replace traditional building materials. All such structures will have elements of the weird and uncanny about them. Construction that arises from an [[opportunity]] may or may not be possible in an ''enigmatic'' region - the best thing to do is to email [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] to confirm it is possible.

Finally, during any trip through the [[Sentinel Gate]] that involves an encounter in Madruga, any participating character with the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill finds that they have two additional personal mana available. These mana points are the first used when spellcasting, and cannot be replenished. They last until used, or until the next sunrise. The bonus mana is gained only once in the rare situation where the same magician visits Siroc Bayou or Crucible more than once during a summit.

===Quiet===
* '''It is not possible to create a commission that produces liao in a region with the quiet quality or any commission that has a musical basis'''
* '''It is not possible to create an inspirational location in this region'''
* '''Any conjunctions in this region will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect'''
* '''Appraisal could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of the quiet region'''
The Quiet Grasses have the ''quiet'' quality. Sounds are a little muted here, and even loud noises fall off more swiftly. Passions and emotions are also muted in a similar fashion, causing travellers and settlers to feel a little more restrained. It's easy and satisfying to embrace emotions such as sadness, sorrow, or regret. These effects are not especially overt - only sensitive individuals are really aware of them. It is, however, impossible to create a [[commission]] that produces [[liao]] in a region with the quiet quality, or any commission that has a musical basis. Inspirational locations cannot be created in such a region, and conjunctions here will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect. This means that during a skirmish or encounter in a region with the Quiet quality, a character with [[Heroic skills#Hero|hero points]] must have a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] (or spend a hero point) to overcome the roleplaying effect, or they cannot spend hero points to power their abilities or magic items.

An [[appraisal]] could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of a quiet region.

===Wild===
* '''A wild region is harder for armies to conquer, requiring 15 rather than 10 victory points to take the region'''
* '''Wild regions never count as undefended for purposes of generating victory points'''
Crucible and Siroc Bayou have the ''Wild'' quality. Even if there are no other forces present in the territory, attacks against either of the two regions will not benefit from the undefended bonus. Furthermore, the land itself defies easy conquest - so much so that each region will require a total of 15 victory points, rather than the more usual 10, to conquer. The good news is that this difficulty will persist - anyone attempting to conquer these regions in the future will face additional challenges.
===Underpopulated ===
* '''These regions will not contribute to army supply unless the quality is removed'''
The two southern regions of the new marsh also have the [[Send_for_me#Underpopulated|underpopulated]] quality, and it is tricky to see how that might be removed. The regions are rich, but they defy easy habitation. The people who once lived here have fled Grendel occupation, dire thirst, and the raging river - most have found new homes in northern Madruga. The marshes are also an environment alien to most Freeborn people. Exploring the marshes and claiming the odd wonders there is certainly possible, but it will be a significant undertaking to encourage people to permanently settle in these regions. Siroc Bayou is the best bet for removing this quality, perhaps finding a way to merge traditional Freeborn architecture with such innovations as Kallavesi stilt-dwellings, or establishing a settlement built on pontoons. Even so, there's no chance of such a settlement reaching the size of a city such as Siroc. Trying to populate Crucible will be even harder, if it is even possible.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza.jpg|caption='''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', Senator for Madruga|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Madruga|Territory=Madruga|Season=Winter}}
==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Summer Solstice 387YE, the Children of Wrecks control Free Landing, the Brass Coast controls Calvos Sound, Lightsea, Torres, and Quiet Grasses. Crucible and Siroc Bayou are uncontrolled. Madruga is an Imperial territory.
* The territory has regions with several odd qualities, most significantly the [[#Enigmatic|enigmatic]] quality that affects commissions and ritual effects across the whole of Madruga. The '''[[Made_anew#Sing_of_Tides|Made Anew]]''' wind of fortune contains more detail of the peculiar inhabitants of the southern marshes
* The maelstrom that now occupies the site of the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] serves as defensive wards controlled by [[Siakha]]. These wards provide 4,000 strength towards determining victory and inflicting casualties, but only if Free Landing is directly attacked. The wards do not suffer casualties - there are always more Siakhan heralds and monsters to contend with - and it is not possible to enchant them, nor support them with military units.

==Lost and Ruined==
{{Anchor|Siroc}}
=== Siroc (Ruined) ===
The Sapphire, the City of a Thousand Sails, was acknowledged as the pre-eminent city of the Freeborn. The city was said to have been founded by the [[Guerra]] family shortly after the Freeborn came to the Brass Coast. It lay in Madruga close by the border with [[Feroz]]. Brightly coloured tents extended Siroc out far beyond the small cluster of stone buildings that made up the heart of the city. Sails of all shapes and sizes filled the sheltered bay, which was guarded by a series of iron woven nets and chains bought at great expense from the forges of Wintermark.

Siroc was the site of the '''Glass Parador''', where the [[Mistress of the Glass Parador]] held court. It was also the location of the ''Parador of the Kindled Flame'', an [[folly|orphanage]] whose [[Construct Parador of the Kindled Flame|construction]] was overseen by '''Laughlan Vi Temeschwar''', the first [[Master of Rings]]. One of only a small number of permanent stone structures of any size in the City of a Thousand Sails, it was surprisingly understated and utilitarian with the only notable decoration being a small plaque at the entrance bearing the legend “''In Virtue we remember those who watch over others''", and a list of names of those who helped construct the sanctuary.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Parador.jpg|caption=The City of A Thousand Sails was home to many fine paradors.|title=Art by Beth Dooner|align=right|width=500}}
It was also the site of the [[#Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)|Commonwealth Embassy]], a severe structure that represented the Commonwealth's diplomatic relationship with the Empire.

The city prospered for centuries, but following the Autumn Equinox 385YE it was [[A beacon of smoke|burned to the ground]] by the Grendel and their [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] allies, apparently in retaliation for the Empire's role in the [[Mosaic|destruction of the city of Chalonsio]] in Asavea. While some of the stone buildings survived, the majority of the structures were wood and canvas, and were destroyed by fire. The transforming flood that swept through the territory towards the end of 386YE sealed Siroc's fate - those ruins not sinking into marsh mud are lost beneath the waters of the Bay, and any hope of restoring the city to its former glory is gone.
===Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)===
The [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth|Commonwealth Embassy]] was located in [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]]. It consisted of several buildings built after the severe Commonwealth style, which stood in beautifully laid out and maintained gardens, surrounded by a low white granite wall. Despite the severity of the architecture, the embassy was surprisingly welcoming - the gates stood permanently open, albeit under the watchful gaze of a cadre of Commonwealth soldiers attached to the staff of ambassador Mila Eisenfalke. The majority of the staff were human, although there were apparently half a dozen orcs whose role on the ambassadorial staff is not clear. There were no daeva citizens working at the embassy as far as Imperial observers can make out. When the city of Siroc was attacked by the Grendel and their Asavean allies, almost all the soldiers garrisoned here perished while fighting bravely alongside the Freeborn defenders of the Salt Guard.
===The Salt Guard (Ruined)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Destruction of the Shining Pillar.jpg|caption=The destruction of the Shining Pillar was heartbreaking for many Freeborn.|title=Art by Juniper Orton|align=right|width=450}}
A grand [[fortification]] [[The_same_bed#The_Salt_Guard|designed]] by Menno van Ritsjhof comprised of two stout fortifications on either side of the bay along the approach to Siroc. Each fort is equipped with powerful trebuchet and catapults. A garrison of skilled mariners and corsairs ensures the towers are always ready to respond to any threat, and with the significant reinforcement of the existing iron chains and nets that guard the harbour they are extremely effective against shore offensives. He believes that not only will a sea assault against Siroc be made nigh impossible, but that the garrisons of the two towers would also be in a position to protect the Lyceum which lies to the south-east of Siroc proper.
{{anchor|The Atalaya Shipyards}}

===The Atalaya Shipyards (Ruined)===
Following a [[Construct_Madruga_shipyard|motion]] at the first [[Senate]] session in Winter 376YE, work began to expand the docks of Atalaya. Under the guidance of Miroslav, Senator for the [[The League|League]] city of [[Sarvos]], many wains of white granite and weirwood were committed to building both a massive seawall, and a great Imperial shipyard equipped with drydocks, powerful cranes for loading and unloading, and expanded warehouses and work spaces. Completed shortly before Autumn 377YE, the shipyard provided significant benefits to the Freeborn [[fleet|ships]] based in Madruga. In addition, the facilities here proved sufficient to allow the construction of the first [[navy]] since the days of [[Emperor Barabbas]]; [[Raise_Freeborn_navy|work]] began on constructing Freeborn vessels in Winter 378YE.

It is perhaps fitting that when the [[Grendel]] invaded Madruga after the Autumn Equinox 381YE, and [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the shipyard]] the Freeborn Storm was [[Navy_orders#Put_to_Port|put to port]] and shared the same fiery fate as the docks where it was created.
===The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)===
Built in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]], this massive white-and-gold tower was one of the most prominent landmarks in the Empire. It was often adopted by Freeborn sailors as a symbol of the Brass Coast as a whole; when they can see the beacon of the Shining Pillar, they knew they were home. The grand lighthouse echoed the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse_of_Alexandria Lighthouse of Alexandria] in design, rather than more modern tall cylindrical towers, and was constructed of white granite. Mithril mirrors captured and amplified the light of the fire burning atop it, which was kept burning by a cadre of attendants who lived in the tower.

During the Grendel [[A beacon of smoke|invasion of Madruga]] in Winter 385YE, the Shining Pillar was [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|annihilated]] by the servants of [[Siakha]], and the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Objective:_Rescue_the_Beacon_Watch|Beacon Watch]] were slaughtered. The terrible rites performed there not only destroyed the lighthouse and drowned the rocky island on which it was built, but they [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|apparently tore open]] a terrible maelstrom, something akin to a [[fane]] for Siakha allowing the eternal to send their servants to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Where once a shining beacon stood, a terrible maw now gapes.

==Further Reading==

Madruga

2026-05-13T10:36:13Z

Rafferty:

[[Category:Imperial_Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Madruga_Made_Anew.png|align=left|caption=Artist's Impression of Madruga|width=600}}</div>[[Category:Gazetteer]]
== Overview ==
Madruga of the Jewelled Isles is the easternmost territory of the Brass Coast, running from the [[Kahraman]] mountains down to the Bay of Catazar. Down the coast of Madruga and [[Feroz]] the [[corsair|corsairs]] and merchants raise their sails, running goods to [[Bastion]] and [[Sarvos]], trading with foreign powers, and fighting off barbarian incursions.

It is the most densely settled of the Freeborn territories; the nation began here, with the landing of the three sisters and their families at old [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]]. Over generations, their descendants spread across the mainland building and cultivating, until Madruga was tamed. Today, it is scattered with villages and small towns - the sprawling city [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]] at its height rivalled the cities of [[the League]] in size and wealth.

It is the spiritual home of the [[Corsair|corsairs]]; many maritime families have lived on the islands of [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] and [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]] since the earliest days of the Freeborn nation.

The history of Madruga is one of change, however. The [[Grendel]] have attacked the islands and towns here for centuries; usually their fleets are intercepted at sea before they can do too much damage, but there have been times when their raiders have sacked coastal settlements. For a few harrowing months in the years before the foundation of the Empire, the Grendel swept inland here conquering [[#Lightsea|Lightsea]] and the islands, and threatening to burn Siroc. They were turned back after months of vicious fighting, but the memory of their attack is sometimes credited by historians as being a factor in the decision of the Freeborn to join the Empire. Since the disappearance of [[Empress Lisabetta|Imperatrix Lisabetta]], life in the territory has become even more tumultuous, with regular Grendel attacks compounded with deadly magical chaos.
==Recent History==
After the Autumn Equinox 381YE, the [[Grendel]] armada invaded Madruga. They [[381YE Winter Solstice winds of war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the Freeborn Storm]], burnt the [[Madruga#The_Atalaya_Shipyards_.28Ruined.29|Atalaya shipyards]], and brought the [[Black Thorns]] to the brink of annihilation. Their forces then moved against [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]], raided the port of Quzar, and within short order half the coast of Madruga was in their hands. The Empire responded quickly, driving the Grendel out, but it was only a matter of time before they returned.

Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, providing merchants and traders easy access to Freeborn luxuries and allowing the caravans of the Brass Coast to travel much more easily to some of the wealthiest cities across the Empire. For more than half a decade the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] of the territory. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].

In the Winter of 385YE, the Grendel returned to Madruga in force, accompanied by warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. In a surprise attack, they [[A beacon of smoke|burnt the city of Siroc]], and established a beachhead in what was then Siroc Plains. In the coming months, war and powerful [[Spring magic]] battered the region, culminating in the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|destruction of the Silent Pillar]] and the formation of the [[Children of Wrecks]]. The [[Siakha]]-inspired pirates began a rampage of their own, even going so far as to use Spring magic to isolate the islands of Free Landing, turning them into a stronghold of their own that Imperial armies cannot approach.

As if this were not bad enough, a [[Colourblind|peculiar blight]] began to spread across the [[#Quiet Grasses|Great Grasses]] in the north-east. The grasslands were quickly turned to ash and dust, and the desiccating [[Winter magic]] threatened to spill over into [[Kahraman]] and [[Segura]]. The cause of the spreading desert was discovered to be a generations-old conspiracy of the ''Aldea di Tutamen'' family who had become awful harbingers of destruction called the Dry Patricians. Their awful threat was stopped by Imperial heroes, but the blight remained.

Then in Autumn 386YE, ritual magicians from every Freeborn [[tribe]] raised the wrath of the Scorrero river, causing it to [[Where the river rises|break its banks]] in a cataclysmic expression of [[Spring magic#Ruin|ruin]] and [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]]. A cleansing tide swept across the Great Grasses, washing away the remnants of the blight. In the process, however, the magical floods also transformed the southern reaches of the territory, leaving three new regions that, as the Winter Solstice 386YE approaches, are still being carefully explored.

== Major Features ==
===Trajadoz===
The town of Trajadoz in north-western [[#Torres|Torres]] was founded roughly three hundred years ago by the Trajaduz family of traders who were intent on fostering trade between the mines of newly conquered [[Kahraman]] and the wealth of [[Sarvos]]. The most recent influx of townsfolk was during the invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. Since the reclamation of Segura in 378YE it stood mostly empty, save for a few bandits, as the Freeborn returned to their homes. Following the end of the rebellion in Marracoss and Emphedor Imperial fleet captains had an opportunity to [[Through_my_sails#Evacuation|evacuate some of the defeated rebels]]. Roughly a third of the refugees, offered sanctuary in the Empire, have [[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|taken up residence]] in the mostly abandoned town, and created a community.

The Marracossans (never Nemorians, and rarely accepting Asavean) are a disparate group; made up of priests and soldiers, crafters and traders. One of their number Leonorada Rousseau, [[Asavean_Archipelago#Religion|priest of Aseus]], has spent some time in the paradors of nearby [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos]]. They have made clear that they, and their community, like the Empire, and they like the town of Tradajoz. They wish to remain in the town, but Leonorada understands that the community's intent to continue following and worshipping their gods could lead to some unfortunate accusations. In Winter 384YE, the Imperial Senate [[Cede Trajadoz|ceded control of Trajadoz]] to the Nemorians. This has raised a few concerns among their neighbours as it frees them to build temples to their gods if they wish - and indeed to do anything else they want to do. You can read more about the Marracossans in the '''[[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|Large but far away]]''' wind of fortune.
===Calvos===
The bustling town of Calvos lies on the shores of [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]]. The slopes outside the town are rich with grapes, and the fine wines produced here travel all over the Empire. Even the sommeliers of the [[The League|League]] pay well for a Calvos vintage. The [[Paragons and Exemplars|exemplar]] [[Zemress|Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo]] was born here towards the end of the second century YE, and her ship ''The Kraken's Bane'' is housed at a special dry dock here. The ship is a destination for many pilgrims of [[Prosperity]] from as far afield as the [[Sumaah Republic]], as was the nearby [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary]] before it was destroyed in a [[Below_the_thunders#In_Roaring,_Rise|cataclysmic storm]]. Near the seminary ruins stands the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]], a place dedicated to supporting refugees to the Empire, especially those who seek a new family among the Freeborn, and the [[#Zemress Naval Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] (also known as the School of Blood and Brass) where the Freeborn study maritime warfare and the construction of warships.
===Zemress Naval Academy===
[[#Calvos|Calvos]] is the final resting place of the Kraken's Bane, the legendary vessel captained by the exemplar [[Zemress]]. When people fled [[Feroz]] following the Grendel occupation, many of those who looked to Zemress chose to settle in Calvos, drawn by the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary of Zemress]] (before it was destroyed). They swelled the ranks of the faithful and created a unique opportunity to build a ''School of Naval Warfare'' on the Coast. Similar to the ambitious [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|School of Shipbuilding]] originally [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|proposed for Siroc by Frederick di Sarvos]], it is more limited in its scope and focussed purely on teaching and research.

The school allows the Freeborn to delve deep into the practice and theory of [[navy|naval warfare]], allowing them to disseminate newly developed techniques across the Brass Coast and the Empire. Each year the researchers at the school present three possible [[Army qualities|qualities]] that new Imperial navies might be built with. The [[fleet|fleet owners]] of the Brass Coast are then able to vote on which quality they felt was most important - whichever quality wins becomes the focus on their research. Such research often takes a year or more, but once work is complete the Freeborn can again vote on what project to being next (researchers present a new quality to consider, usually alongside the two previously rejected options).

It's notable that several of visiting [[Sumaah]] präster pointed out that if the Empire were prepared to share any new naval techniques they learned with the Republic, then that would be very well received by their fellow adherents of the Way. The Sumaah apparently have two navies of their own, but they are outclassed by the Asaveans, in much the same way that the Empire struggle to compete with the Grendel navies. Redressing that balance would be a huge boost to diplomatic relations with the Sumaah.
{{Anchor|The Lyceum}}

=== The Lyceum (Hidden)===
The Lyceum was established during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] on an island east of Siroc. It is a centre of arcane learning in the Empire, and the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] maintains sumptuous apartments here. Approach to the island is carefully controlled by the magicians and professors, and the most promising magicians are invited to study or teach there.

During the Winter Solstice 385YE, Imperial heroes [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Intercede_at_the_Lyceum_(Battle)|travelled to the Lyceum]] to protect its secrets from the Grendel who sought to claim them. In the process, they activated powerful wards that hid the island behind a wall of fog preventing barbarian or Imperial ships from reaching it. The walls were expected to remain until shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE, but with both the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks threatening the college, the [[Conclave]] accepted an offer from [[Sadogua]] to help [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Sadogua,_Amity|keep the wards up for the time being]] with an eye towards finding a way to get people in and out, and perhaps make the misty wards permanent.

===Atalaya===
The town of Atalaya in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] marks the place where the Brass Coast was born; the first landing of the three sisters and their families. Built around the side of a secluded cove, the seas around the island that share its name are a navigational nightmare. Before the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] was built, reaching the hidden docks of Atalaya was a feat to tax the most skilled ship's crews. Today, the landwards channel has been widened but is protected by hidden obstructions that only the Freeborn pilots know well. Atalaya is also known for its deep natural harbour - many ships of the Freeborn fleet count Atalaya as their home port.

Atalaya is the oldest Freeborn settlement in the Brass Coast, but its prominence was eclipsed centuries ago by [[#Lightsea|Quzar]]. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage for many Freeborn followers of [[the Way]] - there are a number of shrines and temples dedicated to [[Pride]] and [[Vigilance]] here. The [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel#School of the Sanguine Bloom|School of the Sanguine Bloom]], one of the most prestigious schools dedicated to herb-lore in the Brass Coast also stands here, founded long ago by Sameen i Riqueza, youngest daughter of [[Riqueza]] herself.

With the rise of the [[Children of Wrecks]], the oldest settlement of the Freeborn has been lost to the nation. The museums have been looted, and the once beautiful town transformed into a den of pirates.

===Freeborn Flame Marina===
Work began on the [[Construct_Atalaya_Harbour|reconstruction]] of Atalaya harbour following an opportunity [[The_power_behind_our_moves#Atalaya|presented]] after the National Assembly of the Brass Coast called on the people of Feroz to flee the territory rather than suffer under the hands of the Grendel. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE and the abundance of willing, talented shipwrights meant [[fleet|fleets]] were more easily upgradeable, at least until the Brass Coast reclaim Feroz. Unfortunately, along with Atalaya, the Freeborn Flame Marina is currently in the hands of the Children of Wrecks.

On the harbour, looking out to sea, are a number of statues each one different but reminiscent of contemporary Freeborn.

===Sunset Roads===
{{Anchor|South-West Roads}}With encouragement from the notoriously sea-averse Faraden, a grand highway connects Siroc with Calvos, cutting across the territory rather than following the coast. A shorter road runs along the northern banks of the Scorrero, crossing just north of [[Segura#Cerevado|Cerevado]] in [[Segura]] via a beautiful arched bridge of white granite. While the road is used extensively by the Faraden, it also serves to cut the journey time from the northern borders of Madruga to the trading city of Siroc, making it a popular route for Freeborn and League merchants as well.

The Sunset Roads are a [[great work]] that complement the already existing [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Blood Red Roads|Blood Red Roads]], bringing increased prosperity to the owners of [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] in Madruga.

=== The Spider's Dream ===
An elegant bridge spans the river Vassa, connecting [[#Torres|Torres]] to the town of [[Sarvos#Bocche|Trivento]] in Sarvos. It is a marvellous piece of engineering that resembles a spider's web. The [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider%27s_Dream|Spider's Dream]] has significant strategic importance - without it armies cannot cross the Vassa between Sarvos and Madruga without going north and passing through Tassato and the Mournwold. It is overseen by the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]], an [[Imperial title]] uniquely appointed by both the [[senator|senators]] of the League and the Brass Coast together.

The Spider's Dream was once severely damaged by the [[Jotun]], but has since been extensively rebuilt and fortified.

==Regions==
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=MadrugaBorders.png|caption=A very rough region map of pre-transformation Madruga|align=right|width=600}}</div>
===Calvos Sound===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The town of [[#Calvos|Calvos]] stands on the shores of Calvos Sound; the entire [[territory#regions|region]] is named for the great shallow bay that cuts into the eastern shores of the Brass Coast. The waters of the Sound are prime fishing grounds, and the surrounding slopes are known for their rich agriculture, especially grapes, grapefruits, and pomegranates. At the end of the [[Imperial_history#.28281_YE_-_300_YE.29_The_Second_Interregnum|second interregnum]], Calvos Sound was the site of a vicious engagement between [[Grendel]] raiders and the forces of the [[Red_Wind_Corsairs#History|Red Wind Corsairs]]. Despite catastrophic losses, the Freeborn army held. Close to breaking they were forced to retreat, but the campaign achieved its purpose by convincing the nations of the south that the threat from the Grendel was real, events that would eventually lead to the elevation of [[Empress Deanne]]. To this day, many of the people of Calvos Sound have a notable antipathy for the orcs of the Broken Shore.
===Lightsea===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
A well-settled region known for the friendliness of its [[The_Brass_Coast_economic_interests#Paradors|paradors]]. The largest settlement here is '''Quzar''', a bustling port town of white towers and stained glass that is sometimes described as the soul of the Brass Coast. The Towers of Quzar are known as a gathering place for [[hakima]] from all across the nation - an annual "council" meets here every midsummer to share knowledge and gossip. Since the completion of the [[Hakima_of_Salt_and_Sand#Parador_of_Salt_and_Sand|Parador of Salt and Sand]], a large community of hakima, including a significant number of refugees from Feroz, have taken up permanent residence here. The town is now best known for its community of magicians, especially those versed in [[Autumn magic]].

Many of the coastal settlements here were plundered by the Grendel during their incursion toward the end of 381YE. Quzar in particular was hard hit by the orc raiders, with some damage to the town and significant damage to the wealth of the citizens. A year later toward the end of 382YE potent magic [[The_mystic,_the_willful#Miracles_in_Lightsea|restored the town]], wiping away any sign the Grendel were ever there.
===Torres===
The northernmost region of Madruga, and one end of the [[#The Spider's Dream|Spider's Dream]]. The land here is a little more rugged than in the southern regions, and the climate is generally cooler. The people who dwell here share some of the reputation of the miners of [[Kahraman]]; as being suspicious and quarrelsome. Partly this reputation might be a result of regular clashes between Freeborn traders and [[the League|League]] merchants out of [[Sarvos]]. A regular 'problem' for the inhabitants is that League merchants would prefer to travel south to the more prosperous towns of the eastern coast to sell their wares, bypassing the markets of Torres. It is shameful to admit, but there are more incidents of brigandry against League caravans in Torres than in almost any other area around the Bay of Catazar. When such incidents get out of hand, the [[Spider's Tollkeep]] is often prevailed upon to sort them out.

The town of [[#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]] is found in the north-west of Torres. Formerly a home to Freeborn displaced from Kahraman and Segura, it is now home to a very different group of refugees - Marracossan exiles from the [[Asavean Archipelago]].
===Free Landing===
'''Quality:''' Coastal, Island<br>
The sprawling islands that form the region of Free Landing are diverse and well-settled. The islands here were the first home of the Freeborn - the town of [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]] marks the spot where the Brass Coast proper began. When the Grendel invaded Madruga in Winter 381YE, they looted many precious relics from the town of Atalaya and burnt the shipyard there to the ground. In the process, they destroyed the Freeborn [[navy|navy]], the Freeborn Storm.

The waters between the islands have a reputation for being treacherous and difficult for foreign captains; during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] the Empire built a great lighthouse here called '''[[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|the Shining Pillar]]''', which was [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|destroyed]] by forces loyal to the eternal [[Siakha]] during the Winter Solstice 385YE. In its place, a perpetual churning maelstrom serves as a way for servants of the eternal to enter the mortal world and functions as an effective [[fortification]] defending the Children of Wrecks.

The waters around Free Landing have become treacherous due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks. As a result, the region has gained the '''island''' quality, it cannot be attacked by armies unless each army is accompanied by a navy capable of conveying the soldiers across.{{Anchor|Great Grasses}}

===Quiet Grasses===
* '''Qualities:''' Quiet
The Great Grasses were consumed by the Blight, but have now been restored thanks to the surging Spring waters. They are marked not only from the flooding of the Scorrero, but from a year or more of gentle rain conjured with [[Regrow the Land's Heart]]. Where once there was a sea of jade and emerald grasses, and then a lifeless desert of ash and dust, there is now a profusion of plants and flowers. The grass is different to that which grew before, standing easily taller than the tallest soldier and remarkably resistant to damage. Where the thickets of grass are densest, it is slow going trying to make headway and all too easy to get lost. In addition to the grasses, there are large numbers of broad, open meadows covered in ''flameblooms'' - a mass of previously unseen flowers that grow in a profusion of shapes and a riot of reds, oranges, yellows, and an extremely rare white petalled variety.

There is an odd silence to the Grasses now. The grasses seem to eat sounds, causing the cries of circling hawks to fall flat, and even the blaring of horns sounds tinny and can be heard over comparatively short distances. Even the wind whispers as it flows across the plains. Some scouts tagged the place as the "Quiet Grasses," and while the name may have begun as a wry commentary, it has quickly spread. Magicians say that this silence is partly due to a lingering touch of Winter magic - not the harsher resonances [[Winter_magic#Death|death]] or [[Winter_magic#Survival|survival]] but something less tangible - a sense of sadness, loss, or perhaps the [[Winter_magic#Wisdom|wisdom]] that comes from an awareness of [[Winter magic#Ending|ending]], tinged with the wistfulness for the [[Winter_magic#Preservation|way things were before]].
{{Anchor|Siroc Plains}}

===Siroc Bayou===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Coastal, Ruins, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The region that was once Siroc Plains is now the [[Madruga#Siroc Bayou|Siroc Bayou]]. Slow moving streams and lakes of brackish water characterise the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayou bayou]. The river itself, and the gulf between Madruga and Feroz, teem with fish and other creatures. The fury of the Scorrero, already mitigated by the Crucible, loses itself in meandering, shifting streams as it makes its way to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Here and there, ruined Freeborn settlements and structures emerge from the marshes, or stand surrounded by still pools of water. Even though the flooding that transformed the region are quite recent, many of these ruins look as if they have stood in the marshes for decades, heavily overgrown with odd plant growths. Others are more intact, often serving as lairs for the transformed creatures of the marsh. When the river rose, this region was under control of the Grendel, and [[Below_the_thunders#The_Latter_Fire|battle raged]] between the orcs and Imperial forces. The Grendel have since withdrawn almost all their forces, but there are still signs of abandoned encampments here. Some of the Broken Shore troops were left behind as well, and it seems that in the absence of any easy means of escape they have taken up banditry.

The City of Sails, poor ruined [[Madruga#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]], is now lost beneath the waters of the Bay, or consumed by the marsh. There is no chance of rebuilding - there is little left to rebuild on. There is apparently some interest in the [[Sarcophan Delves]] in [[Hyenas_and_herbs#Hyenas_Under_Sail|purchasing salvage rights]] to the ruins, but only once the [[Children of Wrecks]] problem is resolved.

===Crucible===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The new region of Madruga, north of the Scorrero, was once the southern Great Grasses and the western Siroc Plains. This place has been most obviously transfigured by the unleashed magic, and the odd haze reported by scouts is most pronounced here. Even the least magical explorer can sense that there is magic here; a mixture of Spring magic from the flood and the influence of [[Ossegrahn]], or Night magic tinged by the gifts of [[Azoth]], and even a hint of lingering [[Winter magic]] from the Dry Patricians and their Blight. There are reports of a few Grendel camps here as well, scouts trapped behind enemy lines when the flood rushed in.

Scouts report that this area is where the peculiar ''marsh flowers'', some of which possess magical properties, are most abundant. There also seem to be spontaneously occurring sources of [[vis]] here - [[Vis#Warm Honey|warm honey]], [[Vis#Heart's Blood|heart's blood]], and [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]]. In addition, there are a number of oddities - things that either were not here before of have been changed so much as to be effectively new. There is apparently a tower that rises out of the river itself and changes subtly over a course of several days, which puts viewers in mind of a lighthouse despite being miles from the Bay of Catazar. There is a standing pool of ebony water that does not reflect humans or orcs; anything staring into it sees only a monstrous image of themselves. A fountain in the courtyard of an old parador that once stood by the road along the banks of the Scorrero that now flows with rainbow waters; drinking from them by moonlight can prompt a transformation in unlineaged humans such that they unpredictably gain [[briar]], [[naga]] or [[draughir]] [[lineage]].

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Madruga and both Feroz and Segura'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Madruga and both [[Feroz]] and [[Segura]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
==Special Qualities==
===Enigmatic===
* '''Rituals and curses cast on enigmatic regions will be unpredictable and may have more powerful effects'''
* '''Rituals and curses cast on territories with an enigmatic region may be unpredictable or have more powerful effects'''
* '''Such rituals can be made permanent using 2 rings of ilium per magnitude rather than 3'''
* '''Any commission in an enigmatic region can substitute wains of mithril for weirwood or white granite on a one-for-one basis'''
Two of the new regions are marked with a unique quality - ''Enigmatic''. This means the areas are infused with magic of Spring, Winter, and Night. As a consequence, any magic from those realms that operates on the territory level (or the Empire level), or targets the region with this quality, may have unexpected effects. This is not guaranteed - sometimes the ritual will have no noticeable extra impact. Sometimes, however, the impact of the magic will be enhanced in some way - more powerful or more extreme than expected. Even the wisest Unfettered Mind can't say more than that. ('''OOC Note:''' A ritual enchantment or curse will always at least equal or exceed its normal mechanical effect. The magic might be altered but it would never simply be the same effect but ''less'' powerful.)

Any Spring, Winter, or Night ritual that targets a region with a specific quality can target Crucible or Siroc Bayou. For example, even though neither region has the [[forest]] quality, both can be targeted with [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] or [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]]. The form the magic takes may be transformed or altered in unpredictable ways (for example, [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]] cast on one of these regions is likely to cause a cloud of toxic marsh fog rather than volcanic gas).

If [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the victory points necessary to claim the region are increased by fifteen, up from ten.

If [[The Basalt Citadel]] or [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] are cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the resulting battalion or wards will be enhanced such that they provide an additional one thousand effective strength, to four thousand or five thousand strength, respectively.

If the [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] is drawn over a territory where at least one region has the enigmatic quality, its effective magnitude is increased by 10 - the same would apply to any [[Vale of Shadows]] created anywhere in Madruga.

Any territory-wide enchantment or curse, or enchantment or curse targeting one of the two regions is easier to [[Ilium#Using_ilium_in_rituals|make permanent]]. Rather than requiring three rings of [[ilium]] for each magnitude of the effect, it only requires ''two'' rings of ilium per magnitude. The Unfettered Mind scholars warn that this should be approached with some caution - enchantments and curses are rarely meant to be made permanent and experimentation should be done on the understanding that there will be unlooked for side effects. In particular they warn against assuming that a ritual that works one way when cast on Madruga will have the same effect if made permanent with ilium. It might... but it is impossible to be sure given the wildness of the magic coalescing here. Also, if recent events have shown nothing else, this warning is even more significant when dealing with an effect that draws on the power of an eternal.

Any commission built in an enigmatic region can take advantage of the strange magical qualities of the region to substitute mithril for white granite or weirwood on a one-for-one basis. The amount of mithril used must be specified in the details of the commission; it cannot be substituted later. The necessary details should include a description of how mithril, and Freeborn glass, replace traditional building materials. All such structures will have elements of the weird and uncanny about them. Construction that arises from an [[opportunity]] may or may not be possible in an ''enigmatic'' region - the best thing to do is to email [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] to confirm it is possible.

Finally, during any trip through the [[Sentinel Gate]] that involves an encounter in Madruga, any participating character with the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill finds that they have two additional personal mana available. These mana points are the first used when spellcasting, and cannot be replenished. They last until used, or until the next sunrise. The bonus mana is gained only once in the rare situation where the same magician visits Siroc Bayou or Crucible more than once during a summit.

===Quiet===
* '''It is not possible to create a commission that produces liao in a region with the quiet quality or any commission that has a musical basis'''
* '''It is not possible to create an inspirational location in this region'''
* '''Any conjunctions in this region will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect'''
* '''Appraisal could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of the quiet region'''
The Quiet Grasses have the ''quiet'' quality. Sounds are a little muted here, and even loud noises fall off more swiftly. Passions and emotions are also muted in a similar fashion, causing travellers and settlers to feel a little more restrained. It's easy and satisfying to embrace emotions such as sadness, sorrow, or regret. These effects are not especially overt - only sensitive individuals are really aware of them. It is, however, impossible to create a [[commission]] that produces [[liao]] in a region with the quiet quality, or any commission that has a musical basis. Inspirational locations cannot be created in such a region, and conjunctions here will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect. This means that during a skirmish or encounter in a region with the Quiet quality, a character with [[Heroic skills#Hero|hero points]] must have a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] (or spend a hero point) to overcome the roleplaying effect, or they cannot spend hero points to power their abilities or magic items.

An [[appraisal]] could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of a quiet region.

===Wild===
* '''A wild region is harder for armies to conquer, requiring 15 rather than 10 victory points to take the region'''
* '''Wild regions never count as undefended for purposes of generating victory points'''
Crucible and Siroc Bayou have the ''Wild'' quality. Even if there are no other forces present in the territory, attacks against either of the two regions will not benefit from the undefended bonus. Furthermore, the land itself defies easy conquest - so much so that each region will require a total of 15 victory points, rather than the more usual 10, to conquer. The good news is that this difficulty will persist - anyone attempting to conquer these regions in the future will face additional challenges.
===Underpopulated ===
* '''These regions will not contribute to army supply unless the quality is removed'''
The two southern regions of the new marsh also have the [[Send_for_me#Underpopulated|underpopulated]] quality, and it is tricky to see how that might be removed. The regions are rich, but they defy easy habitation. The people who once lived here have fled Grendel occupation, dire thirst, and the raging river - most have found new homes in northern Madruga. The marshes are also an environment alien to most Freeborn people. Exploring the marshes and claiming the odd wonders there is certainly possible, but it will be a significant undertaking to encourage people to permanently settle in these regions. Siroc Bayou is the best bet for removing this quality, perhaps finding a way to merge traditional Freeborn architecture with such innovations as Kallavesi stilt-dwellings, or establishing a settlement built on pontoons. Even so, there's no chance of such a settlement reaching the size of a city such as Siroc. Trying to populate Crucible will be even harder, if it is even possible.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza.jpg|caption='''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', Senator for Madruga|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Madruga|Territory=Madruga|Season=Winter}}
==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Summer Solstice 387YE, the Children of Wrecks control Free Landing, the Brass Coast controls Calvos Sound, Lightsea, Torres, and Quiet Grasses. Crucible and Siroc Bayou are uncontrolled. Madruga is an Imperial territory.
* The territory has regions with several odd qualities, most significantly the [[#Enigmatic|enigmatic]] quality that affects commissions and ritual effects across the whole of Madruga. The '''[[Made_anew#Sing_of_Tides|Made Anew]]''' wind of fortune contains more detail of the peculiar inhabitants of the southern marshes
* The maelstrom that now occupies the site of the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] serves as defensive wards controlled by [[Siakha]]. These wards provide 4,000 strength towards determining victory and inflicting casualties, but only if Free Landing is directly attacked. The wards do not suffer casualties - there are always more Siakhan heralds and monsters to contend with - and it is not possible to enchant them, nor support them with military units.

==Lost and Ruined==
{{Anchor|Siroc}}
=== Siroc (Ruined) ===
The Sapphire, the City of a Thousand Sails, was acknowledged as the pre-eminent city of the Freeborn. The city was said to have been founded by the [[Guerra]] family shortly after the Freeborn came to the Brass Coast. It lay in Madruga close by the border with [[Feroz]]. Brightly coloured tents extended Siroc out far beyond the small cluster of stone buildings that made up the heart of the city. Sails of all shapes and sizes filled the sheltered bay, which was guarded by a series of iron woven nets and chains bought at great expense from the forges of Wintermark.

Siroc was the site of the '''Glass Parador''', where the [[Mistress of the Glass Parador]] held court. It was also the location of the ''Parador of the Kindled Flame'', an [[folly|orphanage]] whose [[Construct Parador of the Kindled Flame|construction]] was overseen by '''Laughlan Vi Temeschwar''', the first [[Master of Rings]]. One of only a small number of permanent stone structures of any size in the City of a Thousand Sails, it was surprisingly understated and utilitarian with the only notable decoration being a small plaque at the entrance bearing the legend “''In Virtue we remember those who watch over others''", and a list of names of those who helped construct the sanctuary.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Parador.jpg|caption=The City of A Thousand Sails was home to many fine paradors.|title=Art by Beth Dooner|align=right|width=500}}
It was also the site of the [[#Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)|Commonwealth Embassy]], a severe structure that represented the Commonwealth's diplomatic relationship with the Empire.

The city prospered for centuries, but following the Autumn Equinox 385YE it was [[A beacon of smoke|burned to the ground]] by the Grendel and their [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] allies, apparently in retaliation for the Empire's role in the [[Mosaic|destruction of the city of Chalonsio]] in Asavea. While some of the stone buildings survived, the majority of the structures were wood and canvas, and were destroyed by fire. The transforming flood that swept through the territory towards the end of 386YE sealed Siroc's fate - those ruins not sinking into marsh mud are lost beneath the waters of the Bay, and any hope of restoring the city to its former glory is gone.
===Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)===
The [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth|Commonwealth Embassy]] was located in [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]]. It consisted of several buildings built after the severe Commonwealth style, which stood in beautifully laid out and maintained gardens, surrounded by a low white granite wall. Despite the severity of the architecture, the embassy was surprisingly welcoming - the gates stood permanently open, albeit under the watchful gaze of a cadre of Commonwealth soldiers attached to the staff of ambassador Mila Eisenfalke. The majority of the staff were human, although there were apparently half a dozen orcs whose role on the ambassadorial staff is not clear. There were no daeva citizens working at the embassy as far as Imperial observers can make out. When the city of Siroc was attacked by the Grendel and their Asavean allies, almost all the soldiers garrisoned here perished while fighting bravely alongside the Freeborn defenders of the Salt Guard.
===The Salt Guard (Ruined)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Destruction of the Shining Pillar.jpg|caption=The destruction of the Shining Pillar was heartbreaking for many Freeborn.|title=Art by Juniper Orton|align=right|width=450}}
A grand [[fortification]] [[The_same_bed#The_Salt_Guard|designed]] by Menno van Ritsjhof comprised of two stout fortifications on either side of the bay along the approach to Siroc. Each fort is equipped with powerful trebuchet and catapults. A garrison of skilled mariners and corsairs ensures the towers are always ready to respond to any threat, and with the significant reinforcement of the existing iron chains and nets that guard the harbour they are extremely effective against shore offensives. He believes that not only will a sea assault against Siroc be made nigh impossible, but that the garrisons of the two towers would also be in a position to protect the Lyceum which lies to the south-east of Siroc proper.
{{anchor|The Atalaya Shipyards}}

===The Atalaya Shipyards (Ruined)===
Following a [[Construct_Madruga_shipyard|motion]] at the first [[Senate]] session in Winter 376YE, work began to expand the docks of Atalaya. Under the guidance of Miroslav, Senator for the [[The League|League]] city of [[Sarvos]], many wains of white granite and weirwood were committed to building both a massive seawall, and a great Imperial shipyard equipped with drydocks, powerful cranes for loading and unloading, and expanded warehouses and work spaces. Completed shortly before Autumn 377YE, the shipyard provided significant benefits to the Freeborn [[fleet|ships]] based in Madruga. In addition, the facilities here proved sufficient to allow the construction of the first [[navy]] since the days of [[Emperor Barabbas]]; [[Raise_Freeborn_navy|work]] began on constructing Freeborn vessels in Winter 378YE.

It is perhaps fitting that when the [[Grendel]] invaded Madruga after the Autumn Equinox 381YE, and [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the shipyard]] the Freeborn Storm was [[Navy_orders#Put_to_Port|put to port]] and shared the same fiery fate as the docks where it was created.
===The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)===
Built in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]], this massive white-and-gold tower was one of the most prominent landmarks in the Empire. It was often adopted by Freeborn sailors as a symbol of the Brass Coast as a whole; when they can see the beacon of the Shining Pillar, they knew they were home. The grand lighthouse echoed the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse_of_Alexandria Lighthouse of Alexandria] in design, rather than more modern tall cylindrical towers, and was constructed of white granite. Mithril mirrors captured and amplified the light of the fire burning atop it, which was kept burning by a cadre of attendants who lived in the tower.

During the Grendel [[A beacon of smoke|invasion of Madruga]] in Winter 385YE, the Shining Pillar was [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|annihilated]] by the servants of [[Siakha]], and the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Objective:_Rescue_the_Beacon_Watch|Beacon Watch]] were slaughtered. The terrible rites performed there not only destroyed the lighthouse and drowned the rocky island on which it was built, but they [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|apparently tore open]] a terrible maelstrom, something akin to a [[fane]] for Siakha allowing the eternal to send their servants to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Where once a shining beacon stood, a terrible maw now gapes.

==Further Reading==

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:19:30Z

Rafferty: /* The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz

2026-05-13T10:18:23Z

Rafferty:

Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz is ''not'' an [[Imperial title]]. Following war with Asavea, and the destruction of the Temple of the Way in Nemoria, this title is defunct.
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Black Bull.png|align=right|caption=One of the [[https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/empire-wiki/Asavean_Archipelago#Religion|"gods"]] honoured at the [[Feroz#The_Temple_of_Balo_and_the_Black_Bull|temple]] in [[Feroz]] is<br>the Black Bull, patron of guards, bodyguards, and soldiers.|width=250}}
==Overview==
''El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el Toro Negro'' or ''Delegato Imperiale presso i sacerdoti di Balo e del Toro Nero'' (depending who one asks - it translates roughly as Imperial intermediary/delegate to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull) is charged with maintaining good relations between Imperial citizens and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] priests at the [[Feroz#The_Temple_of_Balo_and_the_Black_Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]]. As part of their work, they are able to purchase Asavean good at a set price.

The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. Construction was significantly over budget, and took half a year longer than expected, due to opposition from the Imperial Synod.

The position of Delegate is ''not'' an [[Imperial title]]; rather it represents access to a [[Resource#Campaign_Resource|Campaign resource]].

==Responsibilities==
The Delegate is responsible for maintaining the relationship between the [[Synod]], the people of [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]], and the priests and worshippers at the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull. For the most part, this is likely to involve smoothing over any conflicts, and dealing with any problems of [[opportunity|opportunities]] related to the Temple.
__TOC__
==Powers==
===Point of Contact===
The Asavean priesthood, both that local to Feroz and the temples of Asavea, will look to the Delegate to resolve any issues between the Asaveans and Imperial citizens, in conjunction with the [[Ambassador to Asavea]].

===Ministry===
<div style="float: right; max-width: 450px; margin-left: 10px; clear: right;">
<table><tr><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Money Spent</th><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</th></tr>
<tr><td>168 Rings</td><td>5 Cerulean Mazzarine, 4 Orichalcum, 3 Iridescent Gloaming, 2 Tempest Jade</td></tr>
<tr><td>408 Rings</td><td>9 Cerulean Mazzarine, 8 Orichalcum, 6 Iridescent Gloaming, 4 Tempest Jade</td></tr>
<tr><td>840 Rings</td><td>13 Cerulean Mazzarine, 12 Orichalcum, 9 Iridescent Gloaming, 6 Tempest Jade</td></tr>
<tr><td>1152 Rings</td><td>17 Cerulean Mazzarine, 16 Orichalcum, 12 Iridescent Gloaming, 8 Tempest Jade</td></tr>
</table>
</div>

As a [[ministry]], the title Imperial Delegate is able to purchase quantities of special materials at a set price. The Delegate spends their money and makes their choices during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.

Following the [[Ratify Liberty Pact|imposition]] of [[Tariffs#Sanctions|sanctions]] on trade with the [[Asavean Archipelago]] during the Winter Solstice 382YE, the cost to purchase goods via the ministry has increased by roughly a fifth.

==Appointment==
The decision as to who will serve as Delegate is in the hands of the Asavean priesthood. The speaker for the Asavean priests involved in this project, Hueva Joãon, has indicated that he would like the temporal power in the land where the temple is being built - specifically the Senator for Feroz - to guide the selection by presenting a candidate or candidates who would be open-minded and interested in cementing closer ties between the Archipelago and the Empire.

Anyone may hold the position of Delegate; as this is not an Imperial title, there is no requirement for the holder to be an Imperial citizen.

The Delegate can be removed at any time by the Asavean priesthood. The Imperial senate could close down the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull, making the title meaningless.

As this is not an Imperial title, the holder cannot be [[revocation|revoked]], and would not lose access to the benefits of their position even if they were the subject of a [[Writ of Excommunication]].

==OOC Note==
This position is not an Imperial title. A character could hold this position and still have an Imperial title. The Empire has little control over the position; in theory possession of the title and how it works is at the mercy of non-player characters. The Senate can effectively abrogate the title by shutting down the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull, but cannot amend its powers or responsibilities.

{{Responsibilities Expectation}}

[[Category:Foreign Nations]]
[[Category:Title]]

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:10:37Z

Rafferty: /* Oran */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:10:16Z

Rafferty: /* Further Reading */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the prompt action of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:08:37Z

Rafferty: /* Oran */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the prompt action of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished stae.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:07:03Z

Rafferty: /* Recent History */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:05:07Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the BRass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, it's former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T09:56:39Z

Rafferty: /* Major Features */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like Madruga has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and until recently the south and the west were constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrol the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of [[Madruga]] to the north. Madruga was the first settled territory of the Freeborn, and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast live in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and there are a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements - a great deal of food and drink is produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T09:56:05Z

Rafferty: /* Isle of the Osseini */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like Madruga has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and until recently the south and the west were constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrol the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of [[Madruga]] to the north. Madruga was the first settled territory of the Freeborn, and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast live in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and there are a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements - a great deal of food and drink is produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron COnfederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T09:52:53Z

Rafferty: /* Shantarim */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like Madruga has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and until recently the south and the west were constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrol the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of [[Madruga]] to the north. Madruga was the first settled territory of the Freeborn, and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast live in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and there are a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements - a great deal of food and drink is produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

=== Isle of the Osseini ===
{{stub}}
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of exorcism. Foreigners claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea at the hands of the corsairs of Shantarim, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Region qualities

2026-05-13T09:46:13Z

Rafferty: /* Islands */

==Overview==
Each region in a [[territory]] may have one or more qualities that describe key aspects or features, which may have important economic, strategic or magical considerations.

Some negative qualities have specific methods that the Empire can use to remove them. Without that, it is not possible to create, remove or change the quality of a region without an [[opportunity]] or an [[appraisal]] - they reflect the essential nature of the land.

==Geographic Qualities==
These qualities occur frequently and represent simple aspects of physical geography.

===Arid===
This region has little in the way of fresh water, with wells being valuable commodities. They are often also sparsely settled. Building permanent settlements in these regions is a challenge, as is establishing fortifications. All farms in a territory with at least one region that has the arid quality suffer a 1 rank penalty. The curses [[Rivers Run Red]] and [[Rivers of Life]] are ineffective in a territory whilst any region is arid. At present, no Imperial regions have this quality

===Coastal===
A ''coastal'' region does not simply border the sea or other large body of water, but has a sufficiently accessible shoreline to allow the construction of a [[shipyard]]. Such regions are also, by consequence, vulnerable to attacks by [[navy|navies]]. Coastal regions can be found in places such as the sprawling islands of [[Madruga#Free_Landing|Free Landing]], the smooth and fertile foothills of [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]], and the storm-riddled clay slurries of [[Bregasland#North_Fens|North Fens]].

===Forest===
A ''forested'' region features large amounts of distinctive, often dense woodland. Whether the great stands of ancient oaks in [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]], the dense pine forests of [[Skarsind#Solvihill|Solvihill]] or the once-tainted vegetation of [[Liathaven#Westwood|Westwood]], the presence of large forests allows for casting of rituals such as [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] and enables an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls the region.

===Hills===
A ''hills'' region is mountainous, home to sharp inclines, rough escarpments or similar forms of difficult terrain. Although this does not limit the ability of armies to traverse the territory, it has important implications for strategic magic such as [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]], and enables an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls the region. Examples include the cave-filled slopes of [[Morrow#Altis|Altis]], the magnificent peaks of [[Hahnmark#Kalpamark|Kalpamark]], and the rugged valleys of [[Kahraman#Braydon.27s_Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]].
===Islands===
An ''islands'' region is made up of large amounts of water and a number of discrete landmasses. It is commonly also coastal, for obvious reasons. A region of islands cannot be entered, left, moved through, or attacked by an [[army]], unless it is being transported by a [[navy]]. The most prominent examples are the coastal islands of [[the Brass Coast]] - the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] and [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]].

===Marsh===
A ''marshy'' region might contain swamps, bogs, fens, or similar wetland, sufficient for the casting of rituals such as [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]], or for an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls it. These marshes can have tremendous diversity - compare the murky mangrove swamps of [[Therunin#East_Ashes|East Ashes]] to the misty bogs of [[Kallavesa#Rundhal_Marsh|Rundhal Marsh]] or the eerie grey meres of [[Bregasland#Grey_Fens|Grey Fens]].

Following the [[Light upon the water|supernatural storms]] of 384YE which turned [[Light_upon_the_water#Price_of_the_Marshes|large sections of the Empire's marshes into boggy swamps]], the labour costs of any commission built in a region with the ''marsh'' quality increase by one fifth.

==Historical Qualities==
These qualities reflect the history of a region; they are the by-product of human, orc or other creatures enacting their will upon the area.

===Abandoned===
The region has been abandoned by those who once lived there. As a result of the lack of people and the stubborn spirit amongst those who do still reside here, no mandate enacted by the Imperial Synod will affect a territory with an abandoned region. There are still people living in the region, but there are far fewer inhabitants remaining than once called this bustling territory their home. The one positive is that there are countless abandoned farms, mines, businesses and likewise scattered across the territory. As a result, any character of the correct nation who chooses to move their personal resource to a territory with a region that is abandoned does not have to pay the standard fee of two crowns. At present, Afarjasse, Cazar Straits, Fontargenta, Morajasse, and Oranseri of [[Feroz]] have this quality.

===Burnt===
Through a boon provided by the eternal [[Surut]], the forests of [[Liathaven#West_Ranging|West Ranging]] in [[Liathaven]] were consumed by an irresistible fire that left naught but grey ash in its wake.

===City===
The city quality denotes a large, established settlement, but it is more than just having a built-up population area or a large town. [[Necropolis#Coursmouth|Coursmouth]] has the city quality due to the dead city of [[Necropolis#The_Necropolis|the Necropolis]].

===Foreigners===
Some Imperial regions have large populations of foreigners living there.

===Haunted===
The sites of massacres and the sacred resting places of myriad heroes can develop a ''haunted'' atmosphere, where unquiet spirits restlessly stalk the land. These ghosts are not necessarily malign, but they often require specially trained individuals - such as the [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_dead|stewards of the dead]] in Highguard - to safely keep them restful.

===Ruined===
The cruel reality of war can leave a once-prosperous region with little but ''ruins''. Such regions often bear a melancholy air, with the echoes of past glories fading with the further passage of time. Despite this devastation, such regions can be crucial for the casting of rituals such as [[The Basalt Citadel]].

==Political Qualities==
These qualities reflect current political events in a region; the result of social and economic events in the area over time. They are less durable than other qualities, more likely to come and go as a result of the most recent actions in the area.

===Impoverished===
An impoverished region has seen much of its wealth and assets stripped and sold; the plundered wealth gone. Being impoverished does make it cheaper to build new civilian commissions here. People are desperate for paid work, anything that might earn them enough to feed themselves and their families. Any [[Commission#Civilian_Commissions|civilian commission]] that is built solely in a region or regions that have the impoverished quality cost only one crown per wain, rather than the usual three. At present, Cazar Straits, Fontargenta, Morajasse, and Oranseri of [[Feroz]] have this quality.

===Lawless===
Bandits are a ubiquitous problem across the Empire, but the magistrates deal with them where they can. As a result, they rarely grow to the point where they threaten an entire region. A lawless region is infested with large bandit groups. Lawlessness is a problem for everyone - the threat of banditry is a terrible danger for any law-abiding citizen in the territory who cannot defend themselves from the bandits' depredations. It also impacts the [[Imperial treasury]] - the taxation provided by a territory does not increase naturally while any region remains lawless. That reflects the impact thieves, bandits, and pirates have on local businesses and resources, as well as the tendency of more established criminal groups to attack tax collectors directly. At present, only Morajasse of [[Feroz]] has this quality.

===Uncooperative===
An ''uncooperative'' region has some reason to make life difficult for Imperial armies stationed in the territory. Any Imperial army stationed in a territory has its upkeep increased by a tenth for every region that has the quality, and as long as any region has that quality the territory cannot support an Imperial army. At present, Eoradal, and Fleisardh of [[Mareave]] have this quality.

===Under-developed===
''Under-developed'' regions lack critical infrastructure. There are few roads or bridges over important rivers, and those that do exist are in poor condition or completely ruined. While the area may have natural resources, little has been done to develop them and there are few prosperous farms or businesses in the region. The presence of each under-developed region adds one-fifth to the labour costs of any commission in the territory. At present, no Imperial region has this quality.

===Under Threat===
Regions that are ''under threat'' are threatened by insurgent forces that are hostile to the controlling power. These partisans engage in acts of sabotage or carry out attacks designed to undermine whoever rules the area. If the region is attacked by a force aligned with the partisans, then the attackers are considered to have a beachhead - that is they do not suffer the usual penalties for [[War#Supply_Lines|supply lines]]. 

===Underpopulated===
There are relatively few inhabitants in an ''underpopulated'' region. While hostile geography may limit the number of people who dwell in a mountainous or barren region, this quality reflects a history of depopulation in an area that means it sustains far fewer people than it otherwise might. Any region that is under-populated contributes '''nothing''' to support the armies of whichever nation controls the territory. At present, Afarjasse, the Cazar Straits, and Morajasse of [[Feroz]] have this quality

==Magic Qualities==
These qualities are the result of unique magical effects afflicting a region. They may be the result of some ongoing curse or enchantment, or else the lingering effects that remain after powerful has run its course somewhere.

===Accursèd===
The presence of [[Spiral#The_Black_Plateau|{{Black Plateau}}]] in [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]], [[Spiral]] has left the region ''accursèd''. The {{Black Plateau}} appears to feed on negative emotions and amplify them, burgeoning the mind with hallucinations and oppressive, malign thoughts causing people to dwell on past failures, insults, and suspicions. Since the {{Black Plateau}} was [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|fully awakened]] shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE, this quality has the following effects on Spiral:
* Every army fighting in the territory takes 25% additional casualties
* It is impossible to receive natural resupply in the territory
* Any army that spends the season in the territory will lose 5% of its maximum fighting strength over the course of that season even if it is not engaged
* Fleets, military units, businesses, and farms have their production reduced by a quarter
* The upkeep of Bourse resources is doubled

===Nightwoven===
The Druj have tainted the marshes of [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] in [[Zenith]] with Night magic. As a result, any casting of [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] will increase the victory points necessary to claim the region by fifteen, up from ten.

===Poisoned===
A region might become ''poisoned'' through the working of foul magics, tainting the land with venomous creatures, treacherous foliage and the like. Each Imperial campaign army that moves through, or fights in, such a region suffers 250 casualties during that season of campaigning. The ritual [[Why Sulemaine Walked Away From The Baker]] protects an army from this effect, but orders have no effect to reduce these casualties.

Historically, the Druj have inflicted this quality on regions of [[Holberg]] and [[Carnival_of_rust#Ghostlight_.28Battle_Opportunity.29|attempted]] to do the same to [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] in [[Zenith]]. The Druj managed to use the [[Ashes#Poison_and_Ashes_(Battle_Opportunity)|Sephals Cauldron]] in [[Therunin]] and as of the start of the [[Blood_and_mire#Game_Information:_Therunin|Autumn Equinox 386YE]] Lower Tarn Valley is poisoned. Druj armies are not entirely untouched by this quality, but suffer half the expected casualties.

===Vallorn===
The Spring-fuelled ''[[vallorn]]'', spawned from the disaster that ended the empire of Terunael, can infest regions with its rampant fecundity. Any such region falls out of Imperial control - it is not possible for civilisation as the Empire understands it to coexist with the overgrowth, miasma and strange monsters that the vallorn exudes.

===Watchful===
The [[The_Barrens#Heart_of_Peytaht|Heart of Peytaht]] in [[The Barrens]] has the ''watchful'' quality. Anyone who presses into the dense woodland feels uneasy, and reports the sense of being unwelcome and watched by an unseen force. Rumours abound that the forest is possessed by some sort of dark spirit, perhaps akin to the sovereigns of Varushka.

Attempts to explore the inside of the Heart of Peytaht have been met with failure. Any army moving through the region can expect to take significant casualties in doing so - it has been some time since a great force of Druj marched through it in 376YE, but corpses from it are still found hung by their entrails or huddled by the boles of massive trees, having died in great agony and terror.

Region qualities

2026-05-13T09:45:30Z

Rafferty: /* Hills */

==Overview==
Each region in a [[territory]] may have one or more qualities that describe key aspects or features, which may have important economic, strategic or magical considerations.

Some negative qualities have specific methods that the Empire can use to remove them. Without that, it is not possible to create, remove or change the quality of a region without an [[opportunity]] or an [[appraisal]] - they reflect the essential nature of the land.

==Geographic Qualities==
These qualities occur frequently and represent simple aspects of physical geography.

===Arid===
This region has little in the way of fresh water, with wells being valuable commodities. They are often also sparsely settled. Building permanent settlements in these regions is a challenge, as is establishing fortifications. All farms in a territory with at least one region that has the arid quality suffer a 1 rank penalty. The curses [[Rivers Run Red]] and [[Rivers of Life]] are ineffective in a territory whilst any region is arid. At present, no Imperial regions have this quality

===Coastal===
A ''coastal'' region does not simply border the sea or other large body of water, but has a sufficiently accessible shoreline to allow the construction of a [[shipyard]]. Such regions are also, by consequence, vulnerable to attacks by [[navy|navies]]. Coastal regions can be found in places such as the sprawling islands of [[Madruga#Free_Landing|Free Landing]], the smooth and fertile foothills of [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]], and the storm-riddled clay slurries of [[Bregasland#North_Fens|North Fens]].

===Forest===
A ''forested'' region features large amounts of distinctive, often dense woodland. Whether the great stands of ancient oaks in [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]], the dense pine forests of [[Skarsind#Solvihill|Solvihill]] or the once-tainted vegetation of [[Liathaven#Westwood|Westwood]], the presence of large forests allows for casting of rituals such as [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] and enables an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls the region.

===Hills===
A ''hills'' region is mountainous, home to sharp inclines, rough escarpments or similar forms of difficult terrain. Although this does not limit the ability of armies to traverse the territory, it has important implications for strategic magic such as [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]], and enables an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls the region. Examples include the cave-filled slopes of [[Morrow#Altis|Altis]], the magnificent peaks of [[Hahnmark#Kalpamark|Kalpamark]], and the rugged valleys of [[Kahraman#Braydon.27s_Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]].
===Islands===
An ''islands'' region is made up of large amounts of water and a number of discrete landmasses. It is commonly also coastal, for obvious reasons. A region of islands cannot be entered, left, or moved through by an [[army]], unless it is being transported by a [[navy]]. The most prominent examples are the coastal islands of [[the Brass Coast]] - the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] and [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]].

===Marsh===
A ''marshy'' region might contain swamps, bogs, fens, or similar wetland, sufficient for the casting of rituals such as [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]], or for an Imperial [[Army_qualities#Guerrilla|guerrilla]] army to execute a ''hit and run'' order if the Empire controls it. These marshes can have tremendous diversity - compare the murky mangrove swamps of [[Therunin#East_Ashes|East Ashes]] to the misty bogs of [[Kallavesa#Rundhal_Marsh|Rundhal Marsh]] or the eerie grey meres of [[Bregasland#Grey_Fens|Grey Fens]].

Following the [[Light upon the water|supernatural storms]] of 384YE which turned [[Light_upon_the_water#Price_of_the_Marshes|large sections of the Empire's marshes into boggy swamps]], the labour costs of any commission built in a region with the ''marsh'' quality increase by one fifth.

==Historical Qualities==
These qualities reflect the history of a region; they are the by-product of human, orc or other creatures enacting their will upon the area.

===Abandoned===
The region has been abandoned by those who once lived there. As a result of the lack of people and the stubborn spirit amongst those who do still reside here, no mandate enacted by the Imperial Synod will affect a territory with an abandoned region. There are still people living in the region, but there are far fewer inhabitants remaining than once called this bustling territory their home. The one positive is that there are countless abandoned farms, mines, businesses and likewise scattered across the territory. As a result, any character of the correct nation who chooses to move their personal resource to a territory with a region that is abandoned does not have to pay the standard fee of two crowns. At present, Afarjasse, Cazar Straits, Fontargenta, Morajasse, and Oranseri of [[Feroz]] have this quality.

===Burnt===
Through a boon provided by the eternal [[Surut]], the forests of [[Liathaven#West_Ranging|West Ranging]] in [[Liathaven]] were consumed by an irresistible fire that left naught but grey ash in its wake.

===City===
The city quality denotes a large, established settlement, but it is more than just having a built-up population area or a large town. [[Necropolis#Coursmouth|Coursmouth]] has the city quality due to the dead city of [[Necropolis#The_Necropolis|the Necropolis]].

===Foreigners===
Some Imperial regions have large populations of foreigners living there.

===Haunted===
The sites of massacres and the sacred resting places of myriad heroes can develop a ''haunted'' atmosphere, where unquiet spirits restlessly stalk the land. These ghosts are not necessarily malign, but they often require specially trained individuals - such as the [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_dead|stewards of the dead]] in Highguard - to safely keep them restful.

===Ruined===
The cruel reality of war can leave a once-prosperous region with little but ''ruins''. Such regions often bear a melancholy air, with the echoes of past glories fading with the further passage of time. Despite this devastation, such regions can be crucial for the casting of rituals such as [[The Basalt Citadel]].

==Political Qualities==
These qualities reflect current political events in a region; the result of social and economic events in the area over time. They are less durable than other qualities, more likely to come and go as a result of the most recent actions in the area.

===Impoverished===
An impoverished region has seen much of its wealth and assets stripped and sold; the plundered wealth gone. Being impoverished does make it cheaper to build new civilian commissions here. People are desperate for paid work, anything that might earn them enough to feed themselves and their families. Any [[Commission#Civilian_Commissions|civilian commission]] that is built solely in a region or regions that have the impoverished quality cost only one crown per wain, rather than the usual three. At present, Cazar Straits, Fontargenta, Morajasse, and Oranseri of [[Feroz]] have this quality.

===Lawless===
Bandits are a ubiquitous problem across the Empire, but the magistrates deal with them where they can. As a result, they rarely grow to the point where they threaten an entire region. A lawless region is infested with large bandit groups. Lawlessness is a problem for everyone - the threat of banditry is a terrible danger for any law-abiding citizen in the territory who cannot defend themselves from the bandits' depredations. It also impacts the [[Imperial treasury]] - the taxation provided by a territory does not increase naturally while any region remains lawless. That reflects the impact thieves, bandits, and pirates have on local businesses and resources, as well as the tendency of more established criminal groups to attack tax collectors directly. At present, only Morajasse of [[Feroz]] has this quality.

===Uncooperative===
An ''uncooperative'' region has some reason to make life difficult for Imperial armies stationed in the territory. Any Imperial army stationed in a territory has its upkeep increased by a tenth for every region that has the quality, and as long as any region has that quality the territory cannot support an Imperial army. At present, Eoradal, and Fleisardh of [[Mareave]] have this quality.

===Under-developed===
''Under-developed'' regions lack critical infrastructure. There are few roads or bridges over important rivers, and those that do exist are in poor condition or completely ruined. While the area may have natural resources, little has been done to develop them and there are few prosperous farms or businesses in the region. The presence of each under-developed region adds one-fifth to the labour costs of any commission in the territory. At present, no Imperial region has this quality.

===Under Threat===
Regions that are ''under threat'' are threatened by insurgent forces that are hostile to the controlling power. These partisans engage in acts of sabotage or carry out attacks designed to undermine whoever rules the area. If the region is attacked by a force aligned with the partisans, then the attackers are considered to have a beachhead - that is they do not suffer the usual penalties for [[War#Supply_Lines|supply lines]]. 

===Underpopulated===
There are relatively few inhabitants in an ''underpopulated'' region. While hostile geography may limit the number of people who dwell in a mountainous or barren region, this quality reflects a history of depopulation in an area that means it sustains far fewer people than it otherwise might. Any region that is under-populated contributes '''nothing''' to support the armies of whichever nation controls the territory. At present, Afarjasse, the Cazar Straits, and Morajasse of [[Feroz]] have this quality

==Magic Qualities==
These qualities are the result of unique magical effects afflicting a region. They may be the result of some ongoing curse or enchantment, or else the lingering effects that remain after powerful has run its course somewhere.

===Accursèd===
The presence of [[Spiral#The_Black_Plateau|{{Black Plateau}}]] in [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]], [[Spiral]] has left the region ''accursèd''. The {{Black Plateau}} appears to feed on negative emotions and amplify them, burgeoning the mind with hallucinations and oppressive, malign thoughts causing people to dwell on past failures, insults, and suspicions. Since the {{Black Plateau}} was [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|fully awakened]] shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE, this quality has the following effects on Spiral:
* Every army fighting in the territory takes 25% additional casualties
* It is impossible to receive natural resupply in the territory
* Any army that spends the season in the territory will lose 5% of its maximum fighting strength over the course of that season even if it is not engaged
* Fleets, military units, businesses, and farms have their production reduced by a quarter
* The upkeep of Bourse resources is doubled

===Nightwoven===
The Druj have tainted the marshes of [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] in [[Zenith]] with Night magic. As a result, any casting of [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] will increase the victory points necessary to claim the region by fifteen, up from ten.

===Poisoned===
A region might become ''poisoned'' through the working of foul magics, tainting the land with venomous creatures, treacherous foliage and the like. Each Imperial campaign army that moves through, or fights in, such a region suffers 250 casualties during that season of campaigning. The ritual [[Why Sulemaine Walked Away From The Baker]] protects an army from this effect, but orders have no effect to reduce these casualties.

Historically, the Druj have inflicted this quality on regions of [[Holberg]] and [[Carnival_of_rust#Ghostlight_.28Battle_Opportunity.29|attempted]] to do the same to [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] in [[Zenith]]. The Druj managed to use the [[Ashes#Poison_and_Ashes_(Battle_Opportunity)|Sephals Cauldron]] in [[Therunin]] and as of the start of the [[Blood_and_mire#Game_Information:_Therunin|Autumn Equinox 386YE]] Lower Tarn Valley is poisoned. Druj armies are not entirely untouched by this quality, but suffer half the expected casualties.

===Vallorn===
The Spring-fuelled ''[[vallorn]]'', spawned from the disaster that ended the empire of Terunael, can infest regions with its rampant fecundity. Any such region falls out of Imperial control - it is not possible for civilisation as the Empire understands it to coexist with the overgrowth, miasma and strange monsters that the vallorn exudes.

===Watchful===
The [[The_Barrens#Heart_of_Peytaht|Heart of Peytaht]] in [[The Barrens]] has the ''watchful'' quality. Anyone who presses into the dense woodland feels uneasy, and reports the sense of being unwelcome and watched by an unseen force. Rumours abound that the forest is possessed by some sort of dark spirit, perhaps akin to the sovereigns of Varushka.

Attempts to explore the inside of the Heart of Peytaht have been met with failure. Any army moving through the region can expect to take significant casualties in doing so - it has been some time since a great force of Druj marched through it in 376YE, but corpses from it are still found hung by their entrails or huddled by the boles of massive trees, having died in great agony and terror.

Feroz

2026-05-13T09:42:10Z

Rafferty: /* Cazar Straits */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like Madruga has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and until recently the south and the west were constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrol the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of [[Madruga]] to the north. Madruga was the first settled territory of the Freeborn, and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast live in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and there are a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements - a great deal of food and drink is produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===Shantarim===
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In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] stands the town of Shantarim, a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families here are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim has a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than make up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore. Prior to the peace treaty, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs has tied their hands - its no longer legal for them to fight the Grendel - which has been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel.</box></div>

=== Isle of the Osseini ===
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At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of exorcism. Foreigners claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea at the hands of the corsairs of Shantarim, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Madruga

2026-05-13T09:13:04Z

Rafferty:

[[Category:Imperial_Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{Stub}}
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Madruga_Made_Anew.png|align=left|caption=Artist's Impression of Madruga|width=600}}</div>[[Category:Gazetteer]]
== Overview ==
Madruga of the Jewelled Isles is the easternmost territory of the Brass Coast, running from the [[Kahraman]] mountains down to the Bay of Catazar. Down the coast of Madruga and [[Feroz]] the [[corsair|corsairs]] and merchants raise their sails, running goods to [[Bastion]] and [[Sarvos]], trading with foreign powers, and fighting off barbarian incursions.

It is the most densely settled of the Freeborn territories; the nation began here, with the landing of the three sisters and their families at old [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]]. Over generations, their descendants spread across the mainland building and cultivating, until Madruga was tamed. Today, it is scattered with villages and small towns - the sprawling city [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]] at its height rivalled the cities of [[the League]] in size and wealth.

It is the spiritual home of the [[Corsair|corsairs]]; many maritime families have lived on the islands of [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] and [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]] since the earliest days of the Freeborn nation.

The history of Madruga is one of change, however. The [[Grendel]] have attacked the islands and towns here for centuries; usually their fleets are intercepted at sea before they can do too much damage, but there have been times when their raiders have sacked coastal settlements. For a few harrowing months in the years before the foundation of the Empire, the Grendel swept inland here conquering [[#Lightsea|Lightsea]] and the islands, and threatening to burn Siroc. They were turned back after months of vicious fighting, but the memory of their attack is sometimes credited by historians as being a factor in the decision of the Freeborn to join the Empire. Since the disappearance of [[Empress Lisabetta|Imperatrix Lisabetta]], life in the territory has become even more tumultuous, with regular Grendel attacks compounded with deadly magical chaos.
==Recent History==
After the Autumn Equinox 381YE, the [[Grendel]] armada invaded Madruga. They [[381YE Winter Solstice winds of war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the Freeborn Storm]], burnt the [[Madruga#The_Atalaya_Shipyards_.28Ruined.29|Atalaya shipyards]], and brought the [[Black Thorns]] to the brink of annihilation. Their forces then moved against [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]], raided the port of Quzar, and within short order half the coast of Madruga was in their hands. The Empire responded quickly, driving the Grendel out, but it was only a matter of time before they returned.

Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, providing merchants and traders easy access to Freeborn luxuries and allowing the caravans of the Brass Coast to travel much more easily to some of the wealthiest cities across the Empire. For more than half a decade the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] of the territory. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].

In the Winter of 385YE, the Grendel returned to Madruga in force, accompanied by warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. In a surprise attack, they [[A beacon of smoke|burnt the city of Siroc]], and established a beachhead in what was then Siroc Plains. In the coming months, war and powerful [[Spring magic]] battered the region, culminating in the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|destruction of the Silent Pillar]] and the formation of the [[Children of Wrecks]]. The [[Siakha]]-inspired pirates began a rampage of their own, even going so far as to use Spring magic to isolate the islands of Free Landing, turning them into a stronghold of their own that Imperial armies cannot approach.

As if this were not bad enough, a [[Colourblind|peculiar blight]] began to spread across the [[#Quiet Grasses|Great Grasses]] in the north-east. The grasslands were quickly turned to ash and dust, and the desiccating [[Winter magic]] threatened to spill over into [[Kahraman]] and [[Segura]]. The cause of the spreading desert was discovered to be a generations-old conspiracy of the ''Aldea di Tutamen'' family who had become awful harbingers of destruction called the Dry Patricians. Their awful threat was stopped by Imperial heroes, but the blight remained.

Then in Autumn 386YE, ritual magicians from every Freeborn [[tribe]] raised the wrath of the Scorrero river, causing it to [[Where the river rises|break its banks]] in a cataclysmic expression of [[Spring magic#Ruin|ruin]] and [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]]. A cleansing tide swept across the Great Grasses, washing away the remnants of the blight. In the process, however, the magical floods also transformed the southern reaches of the territory, leaving three new regions that, as the Winter Solstice 386YE approaches, are still being carefully explored.

== Major Features ==
===Trajadoz===
The town of Trajadoz in north-western [[#Torres|Torres]] was founded roughly three hundred years ago by the Trajaduz family of traders who were intent on fostering trade between the mines of newly conquered [[Kahraman]] and the wealth of [[Sarvos]]. The most recent influx of townsfolk was during the invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. Since the reclamation of Segura in 378YE it stood mostly empty, save for a few bandits, as the Freeborn returned to their homes. Following the end of the rebellion in Marracoss and Emphedor Imperial fleet captains had an opportunity to [[Through_my_sails#Evacuation|evacuate some of the defeated rebels]]. Roughly a third of the refugees, offered sanctuary in the Empire, have [[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|taken up residence]] in the mostly abandoned town, and created a community.

The Marracossans (never Nemorians, and rarely accepting Asavean) are a disparate group; made up of priests and soldiers, crafters and traders. One of their number Leonorada Rousseau, [[Asavean_Archipelago#Religion|priest of Aseus]], has spent some time in the paradors of nearby [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos]]. They have made clear that they, and their community, like the Empire, and they like the town of Tradajoz. They wish to remain in the town, but Leonorada understands that the community's intent to continue following and worshipping their gods could lead to some unfortunate accusations. In Winter 384YE, the Imperial Senate [[Cede Trajadoz|ceded control of Trajadoz]] to the Nemorians. This has raised a few concerns among their neighbours as it frees them to build temples to their gods if they wish - and indeed to do anything else they want to do. You can read more about the Marracossans in the '''[[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|Large but far away]]''' wind of fortune.
===Calvos===
The bustling town of Calvos lies on the shores of [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]]. The slopes outside the town are rich with grapes, and the fine wines produced here travel all over the Empire. Even the sommeliers of the [[The League|League]] pay well for a Calvos vintage. The [[Paragons and Exemplars|exemplar]] [[Zemress|Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo]] was born here towards the end of the second century YE, and her ship ''The Kraken's Bane'' is housed at a special dry dock here. The ship is a destination for many pilgrims of [[Prosperity]] from as far afield as the [[Sumaah Republic]], as was the nearby [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary]] before it was destroyed in a [[Below_the_thunders#In_Roaring,_Rise|cataclysmic storm]]. Near the seminary ruins stands the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]], a place dedicated to supporting refugees to the Empire, especially those who seek a new family among the Freeborn, and the [[#Zemress Naval Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] (also known as the School of Blood and Brass) where the Freeborn study maritime warfare and the construction of warships.
===Zemress Naval Academy===
[[#Calvos|Calvos]] is the final resting place of the Kraken's Bane, the legendary vessel captained by the exemplar [[Zemress]]. When people fled [[Feroz]] following the Grendel occupation, many of those who looked to Zemress chose to settle in Calvos, drawn by the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary of Zemress]] (before it was destroyed). They swelled the ranks of the faithful and created a unique opportunity to build a ''School of Naval Warfare'' on the Coast. Similar to the ambitious [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|School of Shipbuilding]] originally [[Focused_and_methodical#The_School_of_Shipbuilding|proposed for Siroc by Frederick di Sarvos]], it is more limited in its scope and focussed purely on teaching and research.

The school allows the Freeborn to delve deep into the practice and theory of [[navy|naval warfare]], allowing them to disseminate newly developed techniques across the Brass Coast and the Empire. Each year the researchers at the school present three possible [[Army qualities|qualities]] that new Imperial navies might be built with. The [[fleet|fleet owners]] of the Brass Coast are then able to vote on which quality they felt was most important - whichever quality wins becomes the focus on their research. Such research often takes a year or more, but once work is complete the Freeborn can again vote on what project to being next (researchers present a new quality to consider, usually alongside the two previously rejected options).

It's notable that several of visiting [[Sumaah]] präster pointed out that if the Empire were prepared to share any new naval techniques they learned with the Republic, then that would be very well received by their fellow adherents of the Way. The Sumaah apparently have two navies of their own, but they are outclassed by the Asaveans, in much the same way that the Empire struggle to compete with the Grendel navies. Redressing that balance would be a huge boost to diplomatic relations with the Sumaah.
{{Anchor|The Lyceum}}

=== The Lyceum (Hidden)===
The Lyceum was established during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] on an island east of Siroc. It is a centre of arcane learning in the Empire, and the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] maintains sumptuous apartments here. Approach to the island is carefully controlled by the magicians and professors, and the most promising magicians are invited to study or teach there.

During the Winter Solstice 385YE, Imperial heroes [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Intercede_at_the_Lyceum_(Battle)|travelled to the Lyceum]] to protect its secrets from the Grendel who sought to claim them. In the process, they activated powerful wards that hid the island behind a wall of fog preventing barbarian or Imperial ships from reaching it. The walls were expected to remain until shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE, but with both the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks threatening the college, the [[Conclave]] accepted an offer from [[Sadogua]] to help [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Sadogua,_Amity|keep the wards up for the time being]] with an eye towards finding a way to get people in and out, and perhaps make the misty wards permanent.

===Atalaya===
The town of Atalaya in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] marks the place where the Brass Coast was born; the first landing of the three sisters and their families. Built around the side of a secluded cove, the seas around the island that share its name are a navigational nightmare. Before the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] was built, reaching the hidden docks of Atalaya was a feat to tax the most skilled ship's crews. Today, the landwards channel has been widened but is protected by hidden obstructions that only the Freeborn pilots know well. Atalaya is also known for its deep natural harbour - many ships of the Freeborn fleet count Atalaya as their home port.

Atalaya is the oldest Freeborn settlement in the Brass Coast, but its prominence was eclipsed centuries ago by [[#Lightsea|Quzar]]. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage for many Freeborn followers of [[the Way]] - there are a number of shrines and temples dedicated to [[Pride]] and [[Vigilance]] here. The [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel#School of the Sanguine Bloom|School of the Sanguine Bloom]], one of the most prestigious schools dedicated to herb-lore in the Brass Coast also stands here, founded long ago by Sameen i Riqueza, youngest daughter of [[Riqueza]] herself.

With the rise of the [[Children of Wrecks]], the oldest settlement of the Freeborn has been lost to the nation. The museums have been looted, and the once beautiful town transformed into a den of pirates.

===Freeborn Flame Marina===
Work began on the [[Construct_Atalaya_Harbour|reconstruction]] of Atalaya harbour following an opportunity [[The_power_behind_our_moves#Atalaya|presented]] after the National Assembly of the Brass Coast called on the people of Feroz to flee the territory rather than suffer under the hands of the Grendel. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE and the abundance of willing, talented shipwrights meant [[fleet|fleets]] were more easily upgradeable, at least until the Brass Coast reclaim Feroz. Unfortunately, along with Atalaya, the Freeborn Flame Marina is currently in the hands of the Children of Wrecks.

On the harbour, looking out to sea, are a number of statues each one different but reminiscent of contemporary Freeborn.

===Sunset Roads===
{{Anchor|South-West Roads}}With encouragement from the notoriously sea-averse Faraden, a grand highway connects Siroc with Calvos, cutting across the territory rather than following the coast. A shorter road runs along the northern banks of the Scorrero, crossing just north of [[Segura#Cerevado|Cerevado]] in [[Segura]] via a beautiful arched bridge of white granite. While the road is used extensively by the Faraden, it also serves to cut the journey time from the northern borders of Madruga to the trading city of Siroc, making it a popular route for Freeborn and League merchants as well.

The Sunset Roads are a [[great work]] that complement the already existing [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Blood Red Roads|Blood Red Roads]], bringing increased prosperity to the owners of [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] in Madruga.

=== The Spider's Dream ===
An elegant bridge spans the river Vassa, connecting [[#Torres|Torres]] to the town of [[Sarvos#Bocche|Trivento]] in Sarvos. It is a marvellous piece of engineering that resembles a spider's web. The [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider%27s_Dream|Spider's Dream]] has significant strategic importance - without it armies cannot cross the Vassa between Sarvos and Madruga without going north and passing through Tassato and the Mournwold. It is overseen by the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]], an [[Imperial title]] uniquely appointed by both the [[senator|senators]] of the League and the Brass Coast together.

The Spider's Dream was once severely damaged by the [[Jotun]], but has since been extensively rebuilt and fortified.

==Regions==
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=MadrugaBorders.png|caption=A very rough region map of pre-transformation Madruga|align=right|width=600}}</div>
===Calvos Sound===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The town of [[#Calvos|Calvos]] stands on the shores of Calvos Sound; the entire [[territory#regions|region]] is named for the great shallow bay that cuts into the eastern shores of the Brass Coast. The waters of the Sound are prime fishing grounds, and the surrounding slopes are known for their rich agriculture, especially grapes, grapefruits, and pomegranates. At the end of the [[Imperial_history#.28281_YE_-_300_YE.29_The_Second_Interregnum|second interregnum]], Calvos Sound was the site of a vicious engagement between [[Grendel]] raiders and the forces of the [[Red_Wind_Corsairs#History|Red Wind Corsairs]]. Despite catastrophic losses, the Freeborn army held. Close to breaking they were forced to retreat, but the campaign achieved its purpose by convincing the nations of the south that the threat from the Grendel was real, events that would eventually lead to the elevation of [[Empress Deanne]]. To this day, many of the people of Calvos Sound have a notable antipathy for the orcs of the Broken Shore.
===Lightsea===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
A well-settled region known for the friendliness of its [[The_Brass_Coast_economic_interests#Paradors|paradors]]. The largest settlement here is '''Quzar''', a bustling port town of white towers and stained glass that is sometimes described as the soul of the Brass Coast. The Towers of Quzar are known as a gathering place for [[hakima]] from all across the nation - an annual "council" meets here every midsummer to share knowledge and gossip. Since the completion of the [[Hakima_of_Salt_and_Sand#Parador_of_Salt_and_Sand|Parador of Salt and Sand]], a large community of hakima, including a significant number of refugees from Feroz, have taken up permanent residence here. The town is now best known for its community of magicians, especially those versed in [[Autumn magic]].

Many of the coastal settlements here were plundered by the Grendel during their incursion toward the end of 381YE. Quzar in particular was hard hit by the orc raiders, with some damage to the town and significant damage to the wealth of the citizens. A year later toward the end of 382YE potent magic [[The_mystic,_the_willful#Miracles_in_Lightsea|restored the town]], wiping away any sign the Grendel were ever there.
===Torres===
The northernmost region of Madruga, and one end of the [[#The Spider's Dream|Spider's Dream]]. The land here is a little more rugged than in the southern regions, and the climate is generally cooler. The people who dwell here share some of the reputation of the miners of [[Kahraman]]; as being suspicious and quarrelsome. Partly this reputation might be a result of regular clashes between Freeborn traders and [[the League|League]] merchants out of [[Sarvos]]. A regular 'problem' for the inhabitants is that League merchants would prefer to travel south to the more prosperous towns of the eastern coast to sell their wares, bypassing the markets of Torres. It is shameful to admit, but there are more incidents of brigandry against League caravans in Torres than in almost any other area around the Bay of Catazar. When such incidents get out of hand, the [[Spider's Tollkeep]] is often prevailed upon to sort them out.

The town of [[#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]] is found in the north-west of Torres. Formerly a home to Freeborn displaced from Kahraman and Segura, it is now home to a very different group of refugees - Marracossan exiles from the [[Asavean Archipelago]].
===Free Landing===
'''Quality:''' Coastal, Island<br>
The sprawling islands that form the region of Free Landing are diverse and well-settled. The islands here were the first home of the Freeborn - the town of [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]] marks the spot where the Brass Coast proper began. When the Grendel invaded Madruga in Winter 381YE, they looted many precious relics from the town of Atalaya and burnt the shipyard there to the ground. In the process, they destroyed the Freeborn [[navy|navy]], the Freeborn Storm.

The waters between the islands have a reputation for being treacherous and difficult for foreign captains; during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] the Empire built a great lighthouse here called '''[[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|the Shining Pillar]]''', which was [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|destroyed]] by forces loyal to the eternal [[Siakha]] during the Winter Solstice 385YE. In its place, a perpetual churning maelstrom serves as a way for servants of the eternal to enter the mortal world and functions as an effective [[fortification]] defending the Children of Wrecks.

The waters around Free Landing have become treacherous due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks. As a result, the region has gained the '''island''' quality, it cannot be attacked by armies unless each army is accompanied by a navy capable of conveying the soldiers across.{{Anchor|Great Grasses}}

===Quiet Grasses===
* '''Qualities:''' Quiet
The Great Grasses were consumed by the Blight, but have now been restored thanks to the surging Spring waters. They are marked not only from the flooding of the Scorrero, but from a year or more of gentle rain conjured with [[Regrow the Land's Heart]]. Where once there was a sea of jade and emerald grasses, and then a lifeless desert of ash and dust, there is now a profusion of plants and flowers. The grass is different to that which grew before, standing easily taller than the tallest soldier and remarkably resistant to damage. Where the thickets of grass are densest, it is slow going trying to make headway and all too easy to get lost. In addition to the grasses, there are large numbers of broad, open meadows covered in ''flameblooms'' - a mass of previously unseen flowers that grow in a profusion of shapes and a riot of reds, oranges, yellows, and an extremely rare white petalled variety.

There is an odd silence to the Grasses now. The grasses seem to eat sounds, causing the cries of circling hawks to fall flat, and even the blaring of horns sounds tinny and can be heard over comparatively short distances. Even the wind whispers as it flows across the plains. Some scouts tagged the place as the "Quiet Grasses," and while the name may have begun as a wry commentary, it has quickly spread. Magicians say that this silence is partly due to a lingering touch of Winter magic - not the harsher resonances [[Winter_magic#Death|death]] or [[Winter_magic#Survival|survival]] but something less tangible - a sense of sadness, loss, or perhaps the [[Winter_magic#Wisdom|wisdom]] that comes from an awareness of [[Winter magic#Ending|ending]], tinged with the wistfulness for the [[Winter_magic#Preservation|way things were before]].
{{Anchor|Siroc Plains}}

===Siroc Bayou===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Coastal, Ruins, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The region that was once Siroc Plains is now the [[Madruga#Siroc Bayou|Siroc Bayou]]. Slow moving streams and lakes of brackish water characterise the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayou bayou]. The river itself, and the gulf between Madruga and Feroz, teem with fish and other creatures. The fury of the Scorrero, already mitigated by the Crucible, loses itself in meandering, shifting streams as it makes its way to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Here and there, ruined Freeborn settlements and structures emerge from the marshes, or stand surrounded by still pools of water. Even though the flooding that transformed the region are quite recent, many of these ruins look as if they have stood in the marshes for decades, heavily overgrown with odd plant growths. Others are more intact, often serving as lairs for the transformed creatures of the marsh. When the river rose, this region was under control of the Grendel, and [[Below_the_thunders#The_Latter_Fire|battle raged]] between the orcs and Imperial forces. The Grendel have since withdrawn almost all their forces, but there are still signs of abandoned encampments here. Some of the Broken Shore troops were left behind as well, and it seems that in the absence of any easy means of escape they have taken up banditry.

The City of Sails, poor ruined [[Madruga#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]], is now lost beneath the waters of the Bay, or consumed by the marsh. There is no chance of rebuilding - there is little left to rebuild on. There is apparently some interest in the [[Sarcophan Delves]] in [[Hyenas_and_herbs#Hyenas_Under_Sail|purchasing salvage rights]] to the ruins, but only once the [[Children of Wrecks]] problem is resolved.

===Crucible===
* '''Qualities:''' Marsh, Wild, Underpopulated, Enigmatic
The new region of Madruga, north of the Scorrero, was once the southern Great Grasses and the western Siroc Plains. This place has been most obviously transfigured by the unleashed magic, and the odd haze reported by scouts is most pronounced here. Even the least magical explorer can sense that there is magic here; a mixture of Spring magic from the flood and the influence of [[Ossegrahn]], or Night magic tinged by the gifts of [[Azoth]], and even a hint of lingering [[Winter magic]] from the Dry Patricians and their Blight. There are reports of a few Grendel camps here as well, scouts trapped behind enemy lines when the flood rushed in.

Scouts report that this area is where the peculiar ''marsh flowers'', some of which possess magical properties, are most abundant. There also seem to be spontaneously occurring sources of [[vis]] here - [[Vis#Warm Honey|warm honey]], [[Vis#Heart's Blood|heart's blood]], and [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]]. In addition, there are a number of oddities - things that either were not here before of have been changed so much as to be effectively new. There is apparently a tower that rises out of the river itself and changes subtly over a course of several days, which puts viewers in mind of a lighthouse despite being miles from the Bay of Catazar. There is a standing pool of ebony water that does not reflect humans or orcs; anything staring into it sees only a monstrous image of themselves. A fountain in the courtyard of an old parador that once stood by the road along the banks of the Scorrero that now flows with rainbow waters; drinking from them by moonlight can prompt a transformation in unlineaged humans such that they unpredictably gain [[briar]], [[naga]] or [[draughir]] [[lineage]].

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Madruga and both Feroz and Segura'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Madruga and both [[Feroz]] and [[Segura]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
==Special Qualities==
===Enigmatic===
* '''Rituals and curses cast on enigmatic regions will be unpredictable and may have more powerful effects'''
* '''Rituals and curses cast on territories with an enigmatic region may be unpredictable or have more powerful effects'''
* '''Such rituals can be made permanent using 2 rings of ilium per magnitude rather than 3'''
* '''Any commission in an enigmatic region can substitute wains of mithril for weirwood or white granite on a one-for-one basis'''
Two of the new regions are marked with a unique quality - ''Enigmatic''. This means the areas are infused with magic of Spring, Winter, and Night. As a consequence, any magic from those realms that operates on the territory level (or the Empire level), or targets the region with this quality, may have unexpected effects. This is not guaranteed - sometimes the ritual will have no noticeable extra impact. Sometimes, however, the impact of the magic will be enhanced in some way - more powerful or more extreme than expected. Even the wisest Unfettered Mind can't say more than that. ('''OOC Note:''' A ritual enchantment or curse will always at least equal or exceed its normal mechanical effect. The magic might be altered but it would never simply be the same effect but ''less'' powerful.)

Any Spring, Winter, or Night ritual that targets a region with a specific quality can target Crucible or Siroc Bayou. For example, even though neither region has the [[forest]] quality, both can be targeted with [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] or [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]]. The form the magic takes may be transformed or altered in unpredictable ways (for example, [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]] cast on one of these regions is likely to cause a cloud of toxic marsh fog rather than volcanic gas).

If [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the victory points necessary to claim the region are increased by fifteen, up from ten.

If [[The Basalt Citadel]] or [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] are cast on a region with the enigmatic quality, the resulting battalion or wards will be enhanced such that they provide an additional one thousand effective strength, to four thousand or five thousand strength, respectively.

If the [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] is drawn over a territory where at least one region has the enigmatic quality, its effective magnitude is increased by 10 - the same would apply to any [[Vale of Shadows]] created anywhere in Madruga.

Any territory-wide enchantment or curse, or enchantment or curse targeting one of the two regions is easier to [[Ilium#Using_ilium_in_rituals|make permanent]]. Rather than requiring three rings of [[ilium]] for each magnitude of the effect, it only requires ''two'' rings of ilium per magnitude. The Unfettered Mind scholars warn that this should be approached with some caution - enchantments and curses are rarely meant to be made permanent and experimentation should be done on the understanding that there will be unlooked for side effects. In particular they warn against assuming that a ritual that works one way when cast on Madruga will have the same effect if made permanent with ilium. It might... but it is impossible to be sure given the wildness of the magic coalescing here. Also, if recent events have shown nothing else, this warning is even more significant when dealing with an effect that draws on the power of an eternal.

Any commission built in an enigmatic region can take advantage of the strange magical qualities of the region to substitute mithril for white granite or weirwood on a one-for-one basis. The amount of mithril used must be specified in the details of the commission; it cannot be substituted later. The necessary details should include a description of how mithril, and Freeborn glass, replace traditional building materials. All such structures will have elements of the weird and uncanny about them. Construction that arises from an [[opportunity]] may or may not be possible in an ''enigmatic'' region - the best thing to do is to email [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] to confirm it is possible.

Finally, during any trip through the [[Sentinel Gate]] that involves an encounter in Madruga, any participating character with the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill finds that they have two additional personal mana available. These mana points are the first used when spellcasting, and cannot be replenished. They last until used, or until the next sunrise. The bonus mana is gained only once in the rare situation where the same magician visits Siroc Bayou or Crucible more than once during a summit.

===Quiet===
* '''It is not possible to create a commission that produces liao in a region with the quiet quality or any commission that has a musical basis'''
* '''It is not possible to create an inspirational location in this region'''
* '''Any conjunctions in this region will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect'''
* '''Appraisal could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of the quiet region'''
The Quiet Grasses have the ''quiet'' quality. Sounds are a little muted here, and even loud noises fall off more swiftly. Passions and emotions are also muted in a similar fashion, causing travellers and settlers to feel a little more restrained. It's easy and satisfying to embrace emotions such as sadness, sorrow, or regret. These effects are not especially overt - only sensitive individuals are really aware of them. It is, however, impossible to create a [[commission]] that produces [[liao]] in a region with the quiet quality, or any commission that has a musical basis. Inspirational locations cannot be created in such a region, and conjunctions here will experience the "quiet" roleplaying effect. This means that during a skirmish or encounter in a region with the Quiet quality, a character with [[Heroic skills#Hero|hero points]] must have a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] (or spend a hero point) to overcome the roleplaying effect, or they cannot spend hero points to power their abilities or magic items.

An [[appraisal]] could be used to find ways to exploit the benefits of a quiet region.

===Wild===
* '''A wild region is harder for armies to conquer, requiring 15 rather than 10 victory points to take the region'''
* '''Wild regions never count as undefended for purposes of generating victory points'''
Crucible and Siroc Bayou have the ''Wild'' quality. Even if there are no other forces present in the territory, attacks against either of the two regions will not benefit from the undefended bonus. Furthermore, the land itself defies easy conquest - so much so that each region will require a total of 15 victory points, rather than the more usual 10, to conquer. The good news is that this difficulty will persist - anyone attempting to conquer these regions in the future will face additional challenges.
===Underpopulated ===
* '''These regions will not contribute to army supply unless the quality is removed'''
The two southern regions of the new marsh also have the [[Send_for_me#Underpopulated|underpopulated]] quality, and it is tricky to see how that might be removed. The regions are rich, but they defy easy habitation. The people who once lived here have fled Grendel occupation, dire thirst, and the raging river - most have found new homes in northern Madruga. The marshes are also an environment alien to most Freeborn people. Exploring the marshes and claiming the odd wonders there is certainly possible, but it will be a significant undertaking to encourage people to permanently settle in these regions. Siroc Bayou is the best bet for removing this quality, perhaps finding a way to merge traditional Freeborn architecture with such innovations as Kallavesi stilt-dwellings, or establishing a settlement built on pontoons. Even so, there's no chance of such a settlement reaching the size of a city such as Siroc. Trying to populate Crucible will be even harder, if it is even possible.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza.jpg|caption='''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', Senator for Madruga|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Madruga|Territory=Madruga|Season=Winter}}
==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Summer Solstice 387YE, the Children of Wrecks control Free Landing, the Brass Coast controls Calvos Sound, Lightsea, Torres, and Quiet Grasses. Crucible and Siroc Bayou are uncontrolled. Madruga is an Imperial territory.
* The territory has regions with several odd qualities, most significantly the [[#Enigmatic|enigmatic]] quality that affects commissions and ritual effects across the whole of Madruga. The '''[[Made_anew#Sing_of_Tides|Made Anew]]''' wind of fortune contains more detail of the peculiar inhabitants of the southern marshes
* The maelstrom that now occupies the site of the [[#The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)|Shining Pillar]] serves as defensive wards controlled by [[Siakha]]. These wards provide 4,000 strength towards determining victory and inflicting casualties, but only if Free Landing is directly attacked. The wards do not suffer casualties - there are always more Siakhan heralds and monsters to contend with - and it is not possible to enchant them, nor support them with military units.

==Lost and Ruined==
{{Anchor|Siroc}}
=== Siroc (Ruined) ===
The Sapphire, the City of a Thousand Sails, was acknowledged as the pre-eminent city of the Freeborn. The city was said to have been founded by the [[Guerra]] family shortly after the Freeborn came to the Brass Coast. It lay in Madruga close by the border with [[Feroz]]. Brightly coloured tents extended Siroc out far beyond the small cluster of stone buildings that made up the heart of the city. Sails of all shapes and sizes filled the sheltered bay, which was guarded by a series of iron woven nets and chains bought at great expense from the forges of Wintermark.

Siroc was the site of the '''Glass Parador''', where the [[Mistress of the Glass Parador]] held court. It was also the location of the ''Parador of the Kindled Flame'', an [[folly|orphanage]] whose [[Construct Parador of the Kindled Flame|construction]] was overseen by '''Laughlan Vi Temeschwar''', the first [[Master of Rings]]. One of only a small number of permanent stone structures of any size in the City of a Thousand Sails, it was surprisingly understated and utilitarian with the only notable decoration being a small plaque at the entrance bearing the legend “''In Virtue we remember those who watch over others''", and a list of names of those who helped construct the sanctuary.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Parador.jpg|caption=The City of A Thousand Sails was home to many fine paradors.|title=Art by Beth Dooner|align=right|width=500}}
It was also the site of the [[#Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)|Commonwealth Embassy]], a severe structure that represented the Commonwealth's diplomatic relationship with the Empire.

The city prospered for centuries, but following the Autumn Equinox 385YE it was [[A beacon of smoke|burned to the ground]] by the Grendel and their [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] allies, apparently in retaliation for the Empire's role in the [[Mosaic|destruction of the city of Chalonsio]] in Asavea. While some of the stone buildings survived, the majority of the structures were wood and canvas, and were destroyed by fire. The transforming flood that swept through the territory towards the end of 386YE sealed Siroc's fate - those ruins not sinking into marsh mud are lost beneath the waters of the Bay, and any hope of restoring the city to its former glory is gone.
===Commonwealth Embassy (Ruined)===
The [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth|Commonwealth Embassy]] was located in [[#Siroc (Ruined)|Siroc]]. It consisted of several buildings built after the severe Commonwealth style, which stood in beautifully laid out and maintained gardens, surrounded by a low white granite wall. Despite the severity of the architecture, the embassy was surprisingly welcoming - the gates stood permanently open, albeit under the watchful gaze of a cadre of Commonwealth soldiers attached to the staff of ambassador Mila Eisenfalke. The majority of the staff were human, although there were apparently half a dozen orcs whose role on the ambassadorial staff is not clear. There were no daeva citizens working at the embassy as far as Imperial observers can make out. When the city of Siroc was attacked by the Grendel and their Asavean allies, almost all the soldiers garrisoned here perished while fighting bravely alongside the Freeborn defenders of the Salt Guard.
===The Salt Guard (Ruined)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Destruction of the Shining Pillar.jpg|caption=The destruction of the Shining Pillar was heartbreaking for many Freeborn.|title=Art by Juniper Orton|align=right|width=450}}
A grand [[fortification]] [[The_same_bed#The_Salt_Guard|designed]] by Menno van Ritsjhof comprised of two stout fortifications on either side of the bay along the approach to Siroc. Each fort is equipped with powerful trebuchet and catapults. A garrison of skilled mariners and corsairs ensures the towers are always ready to respond to any threat, and with the significant reinforcement of the existing iron chains and nets that guard the harbour they are extremely effective against shore offensives. He believes that not only will a sea assault against Siroc be made nigh impossible, but that the garrisons of the two towers would also be in a position to protect the Lyceum which lies to the south-east of Siroc proper.
{{anchor|The Atalaya Shipyards}}

===The Atalaya Shipyards (Ruined)===
Following a [[Construct_Madruga_shipyard|motion]] at the first [[Senate]] session in Winter 376YE, work began to expand the docks of Atalaya. Under the guidance of Miroslav, Senator for the [[The League|League]] city of [[Sarvos]], many wains of white granite and weirwood were committed to building both a massive seawall, and a great Imperial shipyard equipped with drydocks, powerful cranes for loading and unloading, and expanded warehouses and work spaces. Completed shortly before Autumn 377YE, the shipyard provided significant benefits to the Freeborn [[fleet|ships]] based in Madruga. In addition, the facilities here proved sufficient to allow the construction of the first [[navy]] since the days of [[Emperor Barabbas]]; [[Raise_Freeborn_navy|work]] began on constructing Freeborn vessels in Winter 378YE.

It is perhaps fitting that when the [[Grendel]] invaded Madruga after the Autumn Equinox 381YE, and [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the shipyard]] the Freeborn Storm was [[Navy_orders#Put_to_Port|put to port]] and shared the same fiery fate as the docks where it was created.
===The Shining Pillar (Destroyed)===
Built in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]], this massive white-and-gold tower was one of the most prominent landmarks in the Empire. It was often adopted by Freeborn sailors as a symbol of the Brass Coast as a whole; when they can see the beacon of the Shining Pillar, they knew they were home. The grand lighthouse echoed the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse_of_Alexandria Lighthouse of Alexandria] in design, rather than more modern tall cylindrical towers, and was constructed of white granite. Mithril mirrors captured and amplified the light of the fire burning atop it, which was kept burning by a cadre of attendants who lived in the tower.

During the Grendel [[A beacon of smoke|invasion of Madruga]] in Winter 385YE, the Shining Pillar was [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Save_the_Shining_Pillar_(Battle)|annihilated]] by the servants of [[Siakha]], and the [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Objective:_Rescue_the_Beacon_Watch|Beacon Watch]] were slaughtered. The terrible rites performed there not only destroyed the lighthouse and drowned the rocky island on which it was built, but they [[The_cry_of_gulls#The_Darkened_Beacon|apparently tore open]] a terrible maelstrom, something akin to a [[fane]] for Siakha allowing the eternal to send their servants to the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Where once a shining beacon stood, a terrible maw now gapes.

==Further Reading==

Keeper of Berislav's Rest

2026-05-12T13:25:40Z

Rafferty: /* Powers */

<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Blackdamp.jpg|caption=[[Night Below|Blackdamp]] claimed the vale as part of an agreement to consume the Shepherds of Ash|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
The Keeper of Berislav's Rest was an [[Imperial title]] awarded to a [[Varushka|Varushkan]] citizen. It was a national position appointed by the Varushkan senators. The position served as a [[sinecure]], requiring minimal responsibility but offering a regular income drawn from the profits generated by the people of the vale.

Following a [[Out_of_the_abyss#Gift_Giving_(Conjunction)|meeting]] with either the sovereign known as [[Night Below]] or one of its servants, the mines that supported the vale were given to the Shadow-in-shadows as part of the bargain to destroy the [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]].

Now, a stone wall stands across the entrance to the mine that brought so much prosperity to the isolated vale. It has been cut and carved with two faces, one looking out toward the daylight, one hidden within looking down into the depths of the mine where the liquid darkness now pools and flows, and if those two faces might look familiar to those who know the last Keeper of Berislav's Rest, perhaps it is a coincidence. Perhaps it is a way of honouring the one whose agreement sealed the ruin of the vale.

==Responsibilities==
The Keeper of Berislav's Rest had no particular responsibilities; they simply received a stipend of rings from the Vale of Berislav's Rest in Volodmartz. If the Vale were threatened in any way, it was the responsibility of the Keeper to deal with those threats.
__NOTOC__
==Powers==
The Keeper used to receive an income from the vale, but when Berislav's Rest became accursed, that income was lost.


==The Last Keeper of Berislav's Rest==
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">
<table>
<tr><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Summit</th><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Elected</th></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 384YE</td><td>Ostrik Vulpe</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 381YE</td><td>Goran Berislavin Kovacevic</td></tr>
</table></div>
This title is no longer being elected as the seat it oversaw is not in Imperial hands. The table to the right shows the citizens who have been elected to hold this title in the years since Empress Britta died.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ostrik11793.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''' (right), last Keeper of Berislav's Rest|align=left|width=450}}</div>
[[Category:Varushka]]

Keeper of Berislav's Rest

2026-05-12T13:25:18Z

Rafferty: /* Income */

<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Blackdamp.jpg|caption=[[Night Below|Blackdamp]] claimed the vale as part of an agreement to consume the Shepherds of Ash|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
The Keeper of Berislav's Rest was an [[Imperial title]] awarded to a [[Varushka|Varushkan]] citizen. It was a national position appointed by the Varushkan senators. The position served as a [[sinecure]], requiring minimal responsibility but offering a regular income drawn from the profits generated by the people of the vale.

Following a [[Out_of_the_abyss#Gift_Giving_(Conjunction)|meeting]] with either the sovereign known as [[Night Below]] or one of its servants, the mines that supported the vale were given to the Shadow-in-shadows as part of the bargain to destroy the [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]].

Now, a stone wall stands across the entrance to the mine that brought so much prosperity to the isolated vale. It has been cut and carved with two faces, one looking out toward the daylight, one hidden within looking down into the depths of the mine where the liquid darkness now pools and flows, and if those two faces might look familiar to those who know the last Keeper of Berislav's Rest, perhaps it is a coincidence. Perhaps it is a way of honouring the one whose agreement sealed the ruin of the vale.

==Responsibilities==
The Keeper of Berislav's Rest had no particular responsibilities; they simply received a stipend of rings from the Vale of Berislav's Rest in Volodmartz. If the Vale were threatened in any way, it was the responsibility of the Keeper to deal with those threats.
__NOTOC__
==Powers==


==The Last Keeper of Berislav's Rest==
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">
<table>
<tr><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Summit</th><th style="background-color: LightBlue;">Elected</th></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 384YE</td><td>Ostrik Vulpe</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 381YE</td><td>Goran Berislavin Kovacevic</td></tr>
</table></div>
This title is no longer being elected as the seat it oversaw is not in Imperial hands. The table to the right shows the citizens who have been elected to hold this title in the years since Empress Britta died.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ostrik11793.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''' (right), last Keeper of Berislav's Rest|align=left|width=450}}</div>
[[Category:Varushka]]

Volodmartz

2026-05-12T12:53:06Z

Rafferty: /* Livardz */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofVolodmartz.png|caption=Rich in timber and bottomless mines|title=Regions of Volodmartz|align=left|width=500}}
== Overview ==
Mountainous Volodmartz is rich in timber and deep mines. There are comparatively few vales here, and the boyars have a reputation for being particularly iron-fisted. Much more common are [[Varushka Economic Interests#Outposts|outposts]], scattered across the brooding hills and growing rich from the mineral wealth they exploit. Both tend to be very well fortified, and not without reason. There are dark things in the Volodmartz mountains, and plenty of folk tales tell of malign horrors that burrow under them, emerging without warning to overwhelm the foolish, especially on Winter nights when the [[Sermersuaq#Northern lights|northern lights]] dance in the sky. An equally worrying threat is that posed by the northern [[Thule]] barbarians who sometimes strike down through the north-eastern forests. As recently as 376YE a major offensive was launched through the northern mountains in an attempt to secure a beachhead near [[#Brez|Void]]; it is very unlikely to be the last.

The [[Volodny]] had their old centre of power in Volodmartz, and it was here that [[Alderei_the_Fair|Alderei the tyrant-boyar]] was defeated by the Imperial Army. The ruins of several strongholds still lie beneath the forest canopy. One of the most vicious battles took place in the foothills of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains at what is now a valuable [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|weirwood forest]]. This vital strategic asset, the largest source of weirwood in Varushka, was essential to the support of the tyrant-boyar's armies. The penultimate, savage battle of the Imperial campaign against Alderei took place here; after the forest was lost, his forces were forced to fall back towards [[#Murupa|Alderei's Run]] in Murupa, where they finally met their end.

==Recent History==
Following the [[Thule]] invasion of [[Karsk]] in 368YE, probing assaults were made against [[#Livardz|Livardz]] and [[#Suvretz|Suvretz]]. These were turned back by Imperial forces, but the threat of further attacks has never been ruled out. The northern barbarians certainly covet the valuable resources of Volodmartz; in the Summer of 377YE an attempt was made to create a [[War#Creating_a_Beachhead|beachhead]] in the north near the vale of [[#Void|Void]] - almost certainly a strike not only against the mana sites and libraries of the [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] but against the [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]]. The expeditionary force was scattered by a force of Imperial heroes, and a follow-up campaign by Imperial forces wiped out the survivors, stymieing the attempted invasion.

== Major Features ==
=== Triosk ===
A riverside town in [[#Livardz|Livardz]], with a fish-dam and low bridge that has always been the main land route into Karsk. Once a hotbed of support for Alderei the Fair on the edge of what was then Varushka, and the scene of savage fighting in the war against his forces. Empire armies laid siege to it and burnt the original town to the ground. The tyrant-boyar sallied forth before the final assault, and gathered those still loyal from across Volodmartz and the wilds to his final battle to the north. Today, the town serves as something of a crossroads; a trade hub that serves travellers from [[Karsk]], [[Miekarova]], and [[Karov]].

===Void===
The cabalists of the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]] tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of Void in the western foothills, home to a number of allied cabals who study and perform those rituals best kept away from centres of population. Rumour has it that heralds from the realm of Winter come here to treat and bargain with the inhabitants, while others speak of a ''shadow library'' containing great stores of information about curses, malign magics and the nature of the Winter [[eternal|eternals]].

The [[Bredavoi Emissary]] liaises with - and keeps a watch on - the cabalists, especially since they opened the [[Bredavoi Emissary#The Deep Chamber|Deep Chamber]], a mine that delves into the very roots of the mountains here.

Void has also become a place of contact for the orcs of [[Otkodov]] - the offices of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] are here, and the warlocks of the north have begun to visit the settlement more regularly in the wake of this arrangement.

===Sungold Pass===
High in the mountains of [[#Opascari|Opascari]], above the treeline on the easternmost peak known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]]. Extensive mineworkings and ruins that date back to Terunael times were revealed during a [[Sowing_on_the_mountains|terrible storm]] that wracked the northern mountains of Varushka after the Autumn Equinox 381YE. Sungold Pass was a source of contention between the Empire and Otkodov - both claiming that the ruins lay within their own nation - until it was resolved in favour of the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]] of Summer 382YE. It is not entirely clear where the pass lies with regard to the border between Volodmartz and Otkodov - the Empire claims it is in Volodmartz while the Thule claim it is in [[Otkodov#Sk.C3.BCld|Kógur]] in Sküld.

=== The [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]===
The Hunt of Alderei the Fair is a Bourse resource located at the foot of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains. Custodianship of the Hunt is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of weirwood every season and control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Winter Solstice. As with the [[Night Quarry]], there is some resentment that the Hunt is Imperial, rather than a Varushkan national seat.

===The [[Granites of Veltsgorsk]]===
The Granites of Veltsgorks are a Bourse resource located deep in the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the Granites is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of white granite every season. The seat is allocated during the Summer Solstice, to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[mine]] and [[forest]] resources.

===The [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]]===
Following the impact of the [[Starfall|falling star]] known as the Stalker or the Miscreant during the Autumn Equinox 380YE, the [[Thule]] [[orc|orcs]] arranged to [[Lantern's_light|provide some of the bounty]] of [[ilium]] the star provides to the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] people. The offices for overseeing this tribute are located at Void in the mountainous foothills of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 4 rings of ilium every season. The seat is allocated during the Spring Equinox to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[forest]] and [[mine]] resources.

===The Iron Roads===
The majority of the [[Varushkan Road|roads]] in Volodmartz are the result of a grand building project completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE. The Iron Roads were first proposed by the civil service [[Starting_at_the_end#The_Iron_Roads_of_Varushka|several years]] earlier. In Volodmartz, the project was somewhat more ambitious. Rather than just expanding on existing roads, the plan involved building a major road along the edges of the foothills north of [[#Triosk|Triosk]], passing by the [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] and then striking north-west through the dark woods of central Volodmartz to [[#Brez|Void]], and ultimately to [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Veltsgorsk]] in the shadow of the northern mountains. The new road linking to the Hunt of Alderei and the Fair and the Granites of Veltsgorsk required careful planning, and protection from the wolves of the forests, but once it was complete it greatly increased the prosperity of the territory.

==Regions==
===Brez===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Brez have a shadowy reputation among Varushkans. The peaks are high enough that they are perpetually shrouded in snow, even at the height of summer, and even the Iron Roads have not made the foothills much more accessible. The [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] lie high in the eastern peaks of the region, and it is said that without the presence of this valuable Bourse resource, no outsider would ever visit the peaks here despite the rich seams of copper, iron, silver and [[Materials#Tempest_Jade|tempest jade]] the mountains conceal.

The mountains are known to hold several strong [[regio]], associated primarily with the realm of Winter which have attracted [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] and magical scholars since before there was a Varushka. The cabalists of the mountains of Brez tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of '''[[#Void|Void]]''' in the western foothills.

The southern peaks are the site of '''Ruin'''. Once a key mining settlement called ''Vikram's Haven'', its destruction in 349YE is generally believed to have been at the hands of a group of miners who delved too far into rocks under the broken peak above Alderei’s Run in search of rare ores. The vale did not survive their return. Precisely what led to the doom of Ruin is unclear, but scattered rumours suggest that the miners came upon a trove of ancient pre-Imperial artefacts, and fell prey either to a maddening curse or possession by malign occult forces. Ruin is now the occasional home of [[Warden]]-bands who seek to ensure no Vale makes the same mistake again, and is closely watched by the inhabitants of the nearby '''Vale of Gorazima''' who are keen to avoid a similar fate.

===Livardz===
*'''Quality:''' Ruins
The southernmost region of Volodmartz, and once the most densely settled, was for centuries a prosperous crossroads where trade flowed freely. The vales - the best known among which was certainly the riverport of [[#Triosk|Triosk]] - maintained close ties west to [[Miekarova]] and south to [[Karov]] - especially to the bustling port-town of [[Karov#Malimorzi|Korotny]] - and [[karsk#Kopevnost|Kosti]] in [[Karsk]]. In addition to the permanent population, there are a number of vales who maintain their prosperity by catering to the [[Varushka_military_concerns|wagon raiders]] - either as a base of operations or serving as middle-men purchasing the raw materials they rip from the northern mountains and forests.

This changed in late 385YE when [[Cold Sun]] [[To_the_last_syllable#In_Varushka|attacked the Empire]]. An army of ''scions'' called the [[Things_that_burn#The_Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]] ravaged Volodmartz, and much of the damage was focused here. The scions themselves [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|mysteriously vanished]] shortly after, lured into the ''[[#Murupa|Star Caverns]]'' in pursuit of some hidden [[regio]] and never returning. The legacy of their attacks, however, left many of the vales [[Region_qualities#Ruined|in ruins]]. Nearly a dozen vales and settlements across Livardz were shattered or razed. Several hundred people were slain, many more forced to abandon their homes. Ever since, when the wind blows north through the woods where the ''Sumisev Peegel'' lies (the regio from which the Shepherds of Ash emerged), it brings with it the ashes of those the heralds obliterated. Some of the vales have been rebuilt, but Livardz has yet to reclaim the prosperity it once enjoyed.

===Murupa===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
Central Volodmartz is home to several vales and outposts drawn by the rich bounty of [[Materials#Dragonbone|Dragonbone]] that the forests promise. Several of the vales here maintain close ties with [[Miekarova#Perumaki|Razorwatch]] in [[Miekarova]] - and keep a close eye on the [[Miekarova#The Razors|Razors]] and the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|dark power]] that lurks beneath them. There is also a brisk trade in items scoured from the old battlefields, where Varushkan and Imperial forces fought Alderei's armies. The valley known as '''Alderei’s Run''' is the largest of these battlefields, the Tyrant-Boyar’s forces were finally destroyed by the Imperial Armies. Rumour says that Alderei can still be heard there, ordering his forces back into the fray.

To the north of the run are a series of small caves that Alderei’s army used for stores. They were generally referred to as '''The Star Caverns''', due to a prevalence of eroded carvings of star patterns attributed to the Ushka mystics. Some scholars suggested that some of the patterns were much older, probably pre-Terunael in origin. The caverns themselves contained a [[regio]] aligned with the realm of Day, whose power waxed and waned from season to season and year to year - studies suggested the strength of the regio was related to the position of certain [[Astronomancy|constellations]] especially the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Key|Key]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|Lock]]. In 385YE, allegedly following an agreement with the [[Night Below]] to destroy invading ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun]], the caverns were scoured by that dangerous sovereign. The carvings and the regio are both gone.

===Opascari===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Opascari are rich in gold, [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and precious stones. Opascari is known in particular for its sapphires and emeralds, which are often of uncommon size and lustre. The range is also rich in [[mana site|mana sites]], often jealously guarded by and requiring regular protection from packs of hungry [[trogoni]] (among other things). While much of Opascari's wealth is mineral in nature, at the feet of the southern peaks lies the rich weirwood forest known as [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|The Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]. High in the easternmost peaks, atop the mountain known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]], although the mines there were ceded to the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]]. The cavern known as [[Birds#Zoria's Cave|Zoria's Cave]] is found at the foot of the Black Hill, part of the Opascari mountains.

===Suvretz===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
A sprawling region of forests that extends to the eastern borders of Volodmartz and, by extension, the Empire. Many of the vales here are especially fortified, even for Volodmartz - fortifications designed to offer protection not only from wolves, but also from barbarian raiders coming down from the cold forests of barbarian [[Otkodov]]. There are few permanent settlements in the eastern woods - but many crow-haunted battlefields.

Of special interest in Suvretz is a place of legend named '''Runa's Loss'''. Runa was a [[draughir]] [[warden]] who watched the [[Varushkan_Monster|monsters]] of the hills with Toki, her [[changeling]] lover, an apprentice [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Volhov|volhov]]. Toki's master was seduced by an eternal of Winter (generally held to be [[Agramant]]), and Toki chose loyalty to master over love. Runa was one of the wardens who hunted and killed the volhov and all loyal to him. The Vale reminds all wardens that their calling is more important than lesser [[Loyalty|loyalties]], and is considered a site of pilgrimage for devotees of Loyalty and [[Vigilance]] - albeit a particularly perilous one. The vale maintains a careful watch not only over the eastern forests but also over the borders with [[Karsk]].<br>
{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorVolodmartz.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''', Senator for Volodmartz|align=left|width=350}}
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Volodmartz|Territory=Volodmartz|Season=Autumn}}

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Volodmartz are under Imperial control.
* [[Mine|Mines]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 ingots each season.
* [[Forest|Forests]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 measures each season.
[[Category:Varushka]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Volodmartz

2026-05-12T12:18:30Z

Rafferty: /* Livardz */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofVolodmartz.png|caption=Rich in timber and bottomless mines|title=Regions of Volodmartz|align=left|width=500}}
== Overview ==
Mountainous Volodmartz is rich in timber and deep mines. There are comparatively few vales here, and the boyars have a reputation for being particularly iron-fisted. Much more common are [[Varushka Economic Interests#Outposts|outposts]], scattered across the brooding hills and growing rich from the mineral wealth they exploit. Both tend to be very well fortified, and not without reason. There are dark things in the Volodmartz mountains, and plenty of folk tales tell of malign horrors that burrow under them, emerging without warning to overwhelm the foolish, especially on Winter nights when the [[Sermersuaq#Northern lights|northern lights]] dance in the sky. An equally worrying threat is that posed by the northern [[Thule]] barbarians who sometimes strike down through the north-eastern forests. As recently as 376YE a major offensive was launched through the northern mountains in an attempt to secure a beachhead near [[#Brez|Void]]; it is very unlikely to be the last.

The [[Volodny]] had their old centre of power in Volodmartz, and it was here that [[Alderei_the_Fair|Alderei the tyrant-boyar]] was defeated by the Imperial Army. The ruins of several strongholds still lie beneath the forest canopy. One of the most vicious battles took place in the foothills of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains at what is now a valuable [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|weirwood forest]]. This vital strategic asset, the largest source of weirwood in Varushka, was essential to the support of the tyrant-boyar's armies. The penultimate, savage battle of the Imperial campaign against Alderei took place here; after the forest was lost, his forces were forced to fall back towards [[#Murupa|Alderei's Run]] in Murupa, where they finally met their end.

==Recent History==
Following the [[Thule]] invasion of [[Karsk]] in 368YE, probing assaults were made against [[#Livardz|Livardz]] and [[#Suvretz|Suvretz]]. These were turned back by Imperial forces, but the threat of further attacks has never been ruled out. The northern barbarians certainly covet the valuable resources of Volodmartz; in the Summer of 377YE an attempt was made to create a [[War#Creating_a_Beachhead|beachhead]] in the north near the vale of [[#Void|Void]] - almost certainly a strike not only against the mana sites and libraries of the [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] but against the [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]]. The expeditionary force was scattered by a force of Imperial heroes, and a follow-up campaign by Imperial forces wiped out the survivors, stymieing the attempted invasion.

== Major Features ==
=== Triosk ===
A riverside town in [[#Livardz|Livardz]], with a fish-dam and low bridge that has always been the main land route into Karsk. Once a hotbed of support for Alderei the Fair on the edge of what was then Varushka, and the scene of savage fighting in the war against his forces. Empire armies laid siege to it and burnt the original town to the ground. The tyrant-boyar sallied forth before the final assault, and gathered those still loyal from across Volodmartz and the wilds to his final battle to the north. Today, the town serves as something of a crossroads; a trade hub that serves travellers from [[Karsk]], [[Miekarova]], and [[Karov]].

===Void===
The cabalists of the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]] tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of Void in the western foothills, home to a number of allied cabals who study and perform those rituals best kept away from centres of population. Rumour has it that heralds from the realm of Winter come here to treat and bargain with the inhabitants, while others speak of a ''shadow library'' containing great stores of information about curses, malign magics and the nature of the Winter [[eternal|eternals]].

The [[Bredavoi Emissary]] liaises with - and keeps a watch on - the cabalists, especially since they opened the [[Bredavoi Emissary#The Deep Chamber|Deep Chamber]], a mine that delves into the very roots of the mountains here.

Void has also become a place of contact for the orcs of [[Otkodov]] - the offices of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] are here, and the warlocks of the north have begun to visit the settlement more regularly in the wake of this arrangement.

===Sungold Pass===
High in the mountains of [[#Opascari|Opascari]], above the treeline on the easternmost peak known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]]. Extensive mineworkings and ruins that date back to Terunael times were revealed during a [[Sowing_on_the_mountains|terrible storm]] that wracked the northern mountains of Varushka after the Autumn Equinox 381YE. Sungold Pass was a source of contention between the Empire and Otkodov - both claiming that the ruins lay within their own nation - until it was resolved in favour of the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]] of Summer 382YE. It is not entirely clear where the pass lies with regard to the border between Volodmartz and Otkodov - the Empire claims it is in Volodmartz while the Thule claim it is in [[Otkodov#Sk.C3.BCld|Kógur]] in Sküld.

=== The [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]===
The Hunt of Alderei the Fair is a Bourse resource located at the foot of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains. Custodianship of the Hunt is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of weirwood every season and control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Winter Solstice. As with the [[Night Quarry]], there is some resentment that the Hunt is Imperial, rather than a Varushkan national seat.

===The [[Granites of Veltsgorsk]]===
The Granites of Veltsgorks are a Bourse resource located deep in the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the Granites is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of white granite every season. The seat is allocated during the Summer Solstice, to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[mine]] and [[forest]] resources.

===The [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]]===
Following the impact of the [[Starfall|falling star]] known as the Stalker or the Miscreant during the Autumn Equinox 380YE, the [[Thule]] [[orc|orcs]] arranged to [[Lantern's_light|provide some of the bounty]] of [[ilium]] the star provides to the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] people. The offices for overseeing this tribute are located at Void in the mountainous foothills of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 4 rings of ilium every season. The seat is allocated during the Spring Equinox to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[forest]] and [[mine]] resources.

===The Iron Roads===
The majority of the [[Varushkan Road|roads]] in Volodmartz are the result of a grand building project completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE. The Iron Roads were first proposed by the civil service [[Starting_at_the_end#The_Iron_Roads_of_Varushka|several years]] earlier. In Volodmartz, the project was somewhat more ambitious. Rather than just expanding on existing roads, the plan involved building a major road along the edges of the foothills north of [[#Triosk|Triosk]], passing by the [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] and then striking north-west through the dark woods of central Volodmartz to [[#Brez|Void]], and ultimately to [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Veltsgorsk]] in the shadow of the northern mountains. The new road linking to the Hunt of Alderei and the Fair and the Granites of Veltsgorsk required careful planning, and protection from the wolves of the forests, but once it was complete it greatly increased the prosperity of the territory.

==Regions==
===Brez===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Brez have a shadowy reputation among Varushkans. The peaks are high enough that they are perpetually shrouded in snow, even at the height of summer, and even the Iron Roads have not made the foothills much more accessible. The [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] lie high in the eastern peaks of the region, and it is said that without the presence of this valuable Bourse resource, no outsider would ever visit the peaks here despite the rich seams of copper, iron, silver and [[Materials#Tempest_Jade|tempest jade]] the mountains conceal.

The mountains are known to hold several strong [[regio]], associated primarily with the realm of Winter which have attracted [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] and magical scholars since before there was a Varushka. The cabalists of the mountains of Brez tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of '''[[#Void|Void]]''' in the western foothills.

The southern peaks are the site of '''Ruin'''. Once a key mining settlement called ''Vikram's Haven'', its destruction in 349YE is generally believed to have been at the hands of a group of miners who delved too far into rocks under the broken peak above Alderei’s Run in search of rare ores. The vale did not survive their return. Precisely what led to the doom of Ruin is unclear, but scattered rumours suggest that the miners came upon a trove of ancient pre-Imperial artefacts, and fell prey either to a maddening curse or possession by malign occult forces. Ruin is now the occasional home of [[Warden]]-bands who seek to ensure no Vale makes the same mistake again, and is closely watched by the inhabitants of the nearby '''Vale of Gorazima''' who are keen to avoid a similar fate.

===Livardz===
*'''Quality:''' Ruins
The southernmost region of Volodmartz, and certainly the most densely settled, was once a prosperous crossroads where trade flowed freely. The vales here maintain close ties west to [[Miekarova]] and south to [[Karov]] - especially to the bustling port-town of [[Karov#Malimorzi|Korotny]] - and to the town of [[#Triosk|Triosk]] in [[Karsk]]. In addition to the permanent population, there are a number of vales who maintain their prosperity by catering to the [[Varushka_military_concerns|wagon raiders]] - either as a base of operations or serving as middle-men purchasing the raw materials they rip from the northern mountains and forests.

This changed in late 385YE when [[Cold Sun]] [[To_the_last_syllable#In_Varushka|attacked the Empire]]. An army of ''scions'' called the [[Things_that_burn#The_Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]] ravaged Volodmartz, and much of the damage was focused here. The scions themselves [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|mysteriously vanished]] shortly after, lured into the ''[[#Murupa|Star Caverns]]'' in pursuit of some hidden [[regio]] and never returning. The legacy of their attacks, however, left many of the vales [[Region_qualities#Ruined|in ruins]]. Nearly a dozen vales and settlements across Livardz were shattered or razed. Several hundred people were slain, many more forced to abandon their homes. Ever since, when the wind blows north through the woods where the ''Sumisev Peegel'' lies (the regio from which the Shepherds of Ash emerged), it brings with it the ashes of those the heralds obliterated. Some of the vales have been rebuilt, but Livardz has yet to reclaim the prosperity it once enjoyed.

===Murupa===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
Central Volodmartz is home to several vales and outposts drawn by the rich bounty of [[Materials#Dragonbone|Dragonbone]] that the forests promise. Several of the vales here maintain close ties with [[Miekarova#Perumaki|Razorwatch]] in [[Miekarova]] - and keep a close eye on the [[Miekarova#The Razors|Razors]] and the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|dark power]] that lurks beneath them. There is also a brisk trade in items scoured from the old battlefields, where Varushkan and Imperial forces fought Alderei's armies. The valley known as '''Alderei’s Run''' is the largest of these battlefields, the Tyrant-Boyar’s forces were finally destroyed by the Imperial Armies. Rumour says that Alderei can still be heard there, ordering his forces back into the fray.

To the north of the run are a series of small caves that Alderei’s army used for stores. They were generally referred to as '''The Star Caverns''', due to a prevalence of eroded carvings of star patterns attributed to the Ushka mystics. Some scholars suggested that some of the patterns were much older, probably pre-Terunael in origin. The caverns themselves contained a [[regio]] aligned with the realm of Day, whose power waxed and waned from season to season and year to year - studies suggested the strength of the regio was related to the position of certain [[Astronomancy|constellations]] especially the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Key|Key]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|Lock]]. In 385YE, allegedly following an agreement with the [[Night Below]] to destroy invading ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun]], the caverns were scoured by that dangerous sovereign. The carvings and the regio are both gone.

===Opascari===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Opascari are rich in gold, [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and precious stones. Opascari is known in particular for its sapphires and emeralds, which are often of uncommon size and lustre. The range is also rich in [[mana site|mana sites]], often jealously guarded by and requiring regular protection from packs of hungry [[trogoni]] (among other things). While much of Opascari's wealth is mineral in nature, at the feet of the southern peaks lies the rich weirwood forest known as [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|The Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]. High in the easternmost peaks, atop the mountain known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]], although the mines there were ceded to the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]]. The cavern known as [[Birds#Zoria's Cave|Zoria's Cave]] is found at the foot of the Black Hill, part of the Opascari mountains.

===Suvretz===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
A sprawling region of forests that extends to the eastern borders of Volodmartz and, by extension, the Empire. Many of the vales here are especially fortified, even for Volodmartz - fortifications designed to offer protection not only from wolves, but also from barbarian raiders coming down from the cold forests of barbarian [[Otkodov]]. There are few permanent settlements in the eastern woods - but many crow-haunted battlefields.

Of special interest in Suvretz is a place of legend named '''Runa's Loss'''. Runa was a [[draughir]] [[warden]] who watched the [[Varushkan_Monster|monsters]] of the hills with Toki, her [[changeling]] lover, an apprentice [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Volhov|volhov]]. Toki's master was seduced by an eternal of Winter (generally held to be [[Agramant]]), and Toki chose loyalty to master over love. Runa was one of the wardens who hunted and killed the volhov and all loyal to him. The Vale reminds all wardens that their calling is more important than lesser [[Loyalty|loyalties]], and is considered a site of pilgrimage for devotees of Loyalty and [[Vigilance]] - albeit a particularly perilous one. The vale maintains a careful watch not only over the eastern forests but also over the borders with [[Karsk]].<br>
{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorVolodmartz.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''', Senator for Volodmartz|align=left|width=350}}
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Volodmartz|Territory=Volodmartz|Season=Autumn}}

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Volodmartz are under Imperial control.
* [[Mine|Mines]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 ingots each season.
* [[Forest|Forests]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 measures each season.
[[Category:Varushka]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Volodmartz

2026-05-12T12:17:51Z

Rafferty: /* Livardz */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofVolodmartz.png|caption=Rich in timber and bottomless mines|title=Regions of Volodmartz|align=left|width=500}}
== Overview ==
Mountainous Volodmartz is rich in timber and deep mines. There are comparatively few vales here, and the boyars have a reputation for being particularly iron-fisted. Much more common are [[Varushka Economic Interests#Outposts|outposts]], scattered across the brooding hills and growing rich from the mineral wealth they exploit. Both tend to be very well fortified, and not without reason. There are dark things in the Volodmartz mountains, and plenty of folk tales tell of malign horrors that burrow under them, emerging without warning to overwhelm the foolish, especially on Winter nights when the [[Sermersuaq#Northern lights|northern lights]] dance in the sky. An equally worrying threat is that posed by the northern [[Thule]] barbarians who sometimes strike down through the north-eastern forests. As recently as 376YE a major offensive was launched through the northern mountains in an attempt to secure a beachhead near [[#Brez|Void]]; it is very unlikely to be the last.

The [[Volodny]] had their old centre of power in Volodmartz, and it was here that [[Alderei_the_Fair|Alderei the tyrant-boyar]] was defeated by the Imperial Army. The ruins of several strongholds still lie beneath the forest canopy. One of the most vicious battles took place in the foothills of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains at what is now a valuable [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|weirwood forest]]. This vital strategic asset, the largest source of weirwood in Varushka, was essential to the support of the tyrant-boyar's armies. The penultimate, savage battle of the Imperial campaign against Alderei took place here; after the forest was lost, his forces were forced to fall back towards [[#Murupa|Alderei's Run]] in Murupa, where they finally met their end.

==Recent History==
Following the [[Thule]] invasion of [[Karsk]] in 368YE, probing assaults were made against [[#Livardz|Livardz]] and [[#Suvretz|Suvretz]]. These were turned back by Imperial forces, but the threat of further attacks has never been ruled out. The northern barbarians certainly covet the valuable resources of Volodmartz; in the Summer of 377YE an attempt was made to create a [[War#Creating_a_Beachhead|beachhead]] in the north near the vale of [[#Void|Void]] - almost certainly a strike not only against the mana sites and libraries of the [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] but against the [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]]. The expeditionary force was scattered by a force of Imperial heroes, and a follow-up campaign by Imperial forces wiped out the survivors, stymieing the attempted invasion.

== Major Features ==
=== Triosk ===
A riverside town in [[#Livardz|Livardz]], with a fish-dam and low bridge that has always been the main land route into Karsk. Once a hotbed of support for Alderei the Fair on the edge of what was then Varushka, and the scene of savage fighting in the war against his forces. Empire armies laid siege to it and burnt the original town to the ground. The tyrant-boyar sallied forth before the final assault, and gathered those still loyal from across Volodmartz and the wilds to his final battle to the north. Today, the town serves as something of a crossroads; a trade hub that serves travellers from [[Karsk]], [[Miekarova]], and [[Karov]].

===Void===
The cabalists of the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]] tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of Void in the western foothills, home to a number of allied cabals who study and perform those rituals best kept away from centres of population. Rumour has it that heralds from the realm of Winter come here to treat and bargain with the inhabitants, while others speak of a ''shadow library'' containing great stores of information about curses, malign magics and the nature of the Winter [[eternal|eternals]].

The [[Bredavoi Emissary]] liaises with - and keeps a watch on - the cabalists, especially since they opened the [[Bredavoi Emissary#The Deep Chamber|Deep Chamber]], a mine that delves into the very roots of the mountains here.

Void has also become a place of contact for the orcs of [[Otkodov]] - the offices of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] are here, and the warlocks of the north have begun to visit the settlement more regularly in the wake of this arrangement.

===Sungold Pass===
High in the mountains of [[#Opascari|Opascari]], above the treeline on the easternmost peak known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]]. Extensive mineworkings and ruins that date back to Terunael times were revealed during a [[Sowing_on_the_mountains|terrible storm]] that wracked the northern mountains of Varushka after the Autumn Equinox 381YE. Sungold Pass was a source of contention between the Empire and Otkodov - both claiming that the ruins lay within their own nation - until it was resolved in favour of the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]] of Summer 382YE. It is not entirely clear where the pass lies with regard to the border between Volodmartz and Otkodov - the Empire claims it is in Volodmartz while the Thule claim it is in [[Otkodov#Sk.C3.BCld|Kógur]] in Sküld.

=== The [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]===
The Hunt of Alderei the Fair is a Bourse resource located at the foot of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains. Custodianship of the Hunt is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of weirwood every season and control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Winter Solstice. As with the [[Night Quarry]], there is some resentment that the Hunt is Imperial, rather than a Varushkan national seat.

===The [[Granites of Veltsgorsk]]===
The Granites of Veltsgorks are a Bourse resource located deep in the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the Granites is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of white granite every season. The seat is allocated during the Summer Solstice, to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[mine]] and [[forest]] resources.

===The [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]]===
Following the impact of the [[Starfall|falling star]] known as the Stalker or the Miscreant during the Autumn Equinox 380YE, the [[Thule]] [[orc|orcs]] arranged to [[Lantern's_light|provide some of the bounty]] of [[ilium]] the star provides to the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] people. The offices for overseeing this tribute are located at Void in the mountainous foothills of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 4 rings of ilium every season. The seat is allocated during the Spring Equinox to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[forest]] and [[mine]] resources.

===The Iron Roads===
The majority of the [[Varushkan Road|roads]] in Volodmartz are the result of a grand building project completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE. The Iron Roads were first proposed by the civil service [[Starting_at_the_end#The_Iron_Roads_of_Varushka|several years]] earlier. In Volodmartz, the project was somewhat more ambitious. Rather than just expanding on existing roads, the plan involved building a major road along the edges of the foothills north of [[#Triosk|Triosk]], passing by the [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] and then striking north-west through the dark woods of central Volodmartz to [[#Brez|Void]], and ultimately to [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Veltsgorsk]] in the shadow of the northern mountains. The new road linking to the Hunt of Alderei and the Fair and the Granites of Veltsgorsk required careful planning, and protection from the wolves of the forests, but once it was complete it greatly increased the prosperity of the territory.

==Regions==
===Brez===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Brez have a shadowy reputation among Varushkans. The peaks are high enough that they are perpetually shrouded in snow, even at the height of summer, and even the Iron Roads have not made the foothills much more accessible. The [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] lie high in the eastern peaks of the region, and it is said that without the presence of this valuable Bourse resource, no outsider would ever visit the peaks here despite the rich seams of copper, iron, silver and [[Materials#Tempest_Jade|tempest jade]] the mountains conceal.

The mountains are known to hold several strong [[regio]], associated primarily with the realm of Winter which have attracted [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] and magical scholars since before there was a Varushka. The cabalists of the mountains of Brez tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of '''[[#Void|Void]]''' in the western foothills.

The southern peaks are the site of '''Ruin'''. Once a key mining settlement called ''Vikram's Haven'', its destruction in 349YE is generally believed to have been at the hands of a group of miners who delved too far into rocks under the broken peak above Alderei’s Run in search of rare ores. The vale did not survive their return. Precisely what led to the doom of Ruin is unclear, but scattered rumours suggest that the miners came upon a trove of ancient pre-Imperial artefacts, and fell prey either to a maddening curse or possession by malign occult forces. Ruin is now the occasional home of [[Warden]]-bands who seek to ensure no Vale makes the same mistake again, and is closely watched by the inhabitants of the nearby '''Vale of Gorazima''' who are keen to avoid a similar fate.

===Livardz===
*'''Quality:''' Ruins
The southernmost region of Volodmartz, and certainly the most densely settled, was once a prosperous crossroads where trade flowed freely. The vales here maintain close ties west to [[Miekarova]] and south to [[Karov]] - especially to the bustling port-town of [[Karov#Malimorzi|Korotny]] - and to the town of [[#Triosk|Triosk]] in [[Karsk]]. In addition to the permanent population, there are a number of vales who maintain their prosperity by catering to the [[Varushka_military_concerns|wagon raiders]] - either as a base of operations or serving as middle-men purchasing the raw materials they rip from the northern mountains and forests.

This changed in late 385YE when [[Cold Sun]] [[To_the_last_syllable#In_Varushka|attacked the Empire]]. An army of ''scions'' called the [[Things_that_burn#The_Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]] ravaged Volodmartz, and much of the damage was focused here. The scions themselves [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|mysteriously vanished]] shortly after, lured into the ''Star Caves'' in pursuit of some hidden [[regio]] and never returning. The legacy of their attacks, however, left many of the vales [[Region_qualities#Ruined|in ruins]]. Nearly a dozen vales and settlements across Livardz were shattered or razed. Several hundred people were slain, many more forced to abandon their homes. Ever since, when the wind blows north through the woods where the ''Sumisev Peegel'' lies (the regio from which the Shepherds of Ash emerged), it brings with it the ashes of those the heralds obliterated. Some of the vales have been rebuilt, but Livardz has yet to reclaim the prosperity it once enjoyed.

===Murupa===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
Central Volodmartz is home to several vales and outposts drawn by the rich bounty of [[Materials#Dragonbone|Dragonbone]] that the forests promise. Several of the vales here maintain close ties with [[Miekarova#Perumaki|Razorwatch]] in [[Miekarova]] - and keep a close eye on the [[Miekarova#The Razors|Razors]] and the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|dark power]] that lurks beneath them. There is also a brisk trade in items scoured from the old battlefields, where Varushkan and Imperial forces fought Alderei's armies. The valley known as '''Alderei’s Run''' is the largest of these battlefields, the Tyrant-Boyar’s forces were finally destroyed by the Imperial Armies. Rumour says that Alderei can still be heard there, ordering his forces back into the fray.

To the north of the run are a series of small caves that Alderei’s army used for stores. They were generally referred to as '''The Star Caverns''', due to a prevalence of eroded carvings of star patterns attributed to the Ushka mystics. Some scholars suggested that some of the patterns were much older, probably pre-Terunael in origin. The caverns themselves contained a [[regio]] aligned with the realm of Day, whose power waxed and waned from season to season and year to year - studies suggested the strength of the regio was related to the position of certain [[Astronomancy|constellations]] especially the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Key|Key]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|Lock]]. In 385YE, allegedly following an agreement with the [[Night Below]] to destroy invading ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun]], the caverns were scoured by that dangerous sovereign. The carvings and the regio are both gone.

===Opascari===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Opascari are rich in gold, [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and precious stones. Opascari is known in particular for its sapphires and emeralds, which are often of uncommon size and lustre. The range is also rich in [[mana site|mana sites]], often jealously guarded by and requiring regular protection from packs of hungry [[trogoni]] (among other things). While much of Opascari's wealth is mineral in nature, at the feet of the southern peaks lies the rich weirwood forest known as [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|The Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]. High in the easternmost peaks, atop the mountain known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]], although the mines there were ceded to the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]]. The cavern known as [[Birds#Zoria's Cave|Zoria's Cave]] is found at the foot of the Black Hill, part of the Opascari mountains.

===Suvretz===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
A sprawling region of forests that extends to the eastern borders of Volodmartz and, by extension, the Empire. Many of the vales here are especially fortified, even for Volodmartz - fortifications designed to offer protection not only from wolves, but also from barbarian raiders coming down from the cold forests of barbarian [[Otkodov]]. There are few permanent settlements in the eastern woods - but many crow-haunted battlefields.

Of special interest in Suvretz is a place of legend named '''Runa's Loss'''. Runa was a [[draughir]] [[warden]] who watched the [[Varushkan_Monster|monsters]] of the hills with Toki, her [[changeling]] lover, an apprentice [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Volhov|volhov]]. Toki's master was seduced by an eternal of Winter (generally held to be [[Agramant]]), and Toki chose loyalty to master over love. Runa was one of the wardens who hunted and killed the volhov and all loyal to him. The Vale reminds all wardens that their calling is more important than lesser [[Loyalty|loyalties]], and is considered a site of pilgrimage for devotees of Loyalty and [[Vigilance]] - albeit a particularly perilous one. The vale maintains a careful watch not only over the eastern forests but also over the borders with [[Karsk]].<br>
{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorVolodmartz.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''', Senator for Volodmartz|align=left|width=350}}
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Volodmartz|Territory=Volodmartz|Season=Autumn}}

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Volodmartz are under Imperial control.
* [[Mine|Mines]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 ingots each season.
* [[Forest|Forests]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 measures each season.
[[Category:Varushka]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Volodmartz

2026-05-12T12:17:28Z

Rafferty: /* Livardz */

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofVolodmartz.png|caption=Rich in timber and bottomless mines|title=Regions of Volodmartz|align=left|width=500}}
== Overview ==
Mountainous Volodmartz is rich in timber and deep mines. There are comparatively few vales here, and the boyars have a reputation for being particularly iron-fisted. Much more common are [[Varushka Economic Interests#Outposts|outposts]], scattered across the brooding hills and growing rich from the mineral wealth they exploit. Both tend to be very well fortified, and not without reason. There are dark things in the Volodmartz mountains, and plenty of folk tales tell of malign horrors that burrow under them, emerging without warning to overwhelm the foolish, especially on Winter nights when the [[Sermersuaq#Northern lights|northern lights]] dance in the sky. An equally worrying threat is that posed by the northern [[Thule]] barbarians who sometimes strike down through the north-eastern forests. As recently as 376YE a major offensive was launched through the northern mountains in an attempt to secure a beachhead near [[#Brez|Void]]; it is very unlikely to be the last.

The [[Volodny]] had their old centre of power in Volodmartz, and it was here that [[Alderei_the_Fair|Alderei the tyrant-boyar]] was defeated by the Imperial Army. The ruins of several strongholds still lie beneath the forest canopy. One of the most vicious battles took place in the foothills of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains at what is now a valuable [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|weirwood forest]]. This vital strategic asset, the largest source of weirwood in Varushka, was essential to the support of the tyrant-boyar's armies. The penultimate, savage battle of the Imperial campaign against Alderei took place here; after the forest was lost, his forces were forced to fall back towards [[#Murupa|Alderei's Run]] in Murupa, where they finally met their end.

==Recent History==
Following the [[Thule]] invasion of [[Karsk]] in 368YE, probing assaults were made against [[#Livardz|Livardz]] and [[#Suvretz|Suvretz]]. These were turned back by Imperial forces, but the threat of further attacks has never been ruled out. The northern barbarians certainly covet the valuable resources of Volodmartz; in the Summer of 377YE an attempt was made to create a [[War#Creating_a_Beachhead|beachhead]] in the north near the vale of [[#Void|Void]] - almost certainly a strike not only against the mana sites and libraries of the [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] but against the [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]]. The expeditionary force was scattered by a force of Imperial heroes, and a follow-up campaign by Imperial forces wiped out the survivors, stymieing the attempted invasion.

== Major Features ==
=== Triosk ===
A riverside town in [[#Livardz|Livardz]], with a fish-dam and low bridge that has always been the main land route into Karsk. Once a hotbed of support for Alderei the Fair on the edge of what was then Varushka, and the scene of savage fighting in the war against his forces. Empire armies laid siege to it and burnt the original town to the ground. The tyrant-boyar sallied forth before the final assault, and gathered those still loyal from across Volodmartz and the wilds to his final battle to the north. Today, the town serves as something of a crossroads; a trade hub that serves travellers from [[Karsk]], [[Miekarova]], and [[Karov]].

===Void===
The cabalists of the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]] tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of Void in the western foothills, home to a number of allied cabals who study and perform those rituals best kept away from centres of population. Rumour has it that heralds from the realm of Winter come here to treat and bargain with the inhabitants, while others speak of a ''shadow library'' containing great stores of information about curses, malign magics and the nature of the Winter [[eternal|eternals]].

The [[Bredavoi Emissary]] liaises with - and keeps a watch on - the cabalists, especially since they opened the [[Bredavoi Emissary#The Deep Chamber|Deep Chamber]], a mine that delves into the very roots of the mountains here.

Void has also become a place of contact for the orcs of [[Otkodov]] - the offices of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] are here, and the warlocks of the north have begun to visit the settlement more regularly in the wake of this arrangement.

===Sungold Pass===
High in the mountains of [[#Opascari|Opascari]], above the treeline on the easternmost peak known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]]. Extensive mineworkings and ruins that date back to Terunael times were revealed during a [[Sowing_on_the_mountains|terrible storm]] that wracked the northern mountains of Varushka after the Autumn Equinox 381YE. Sungold Pass was a source of contention between the Empire and Otkodov - both claiming that the ruins lay within their own nation - until it was resolved in favour of the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]] of Summer 382YE. It is not entirely clear where the pass lies with regard to the border between Volodmartz and Otkodov - the Empire claims it is in Volodmartz while the Thule claim it is in [[Otkodov#Sk.C3.BCld|Kógur]] in Sküld.

=== The [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]===
The Hunt of Alderei the Fair is a Bourse resource located at the foot of the [[#Opascari|Opascari]] mountains. Custodianship of the Hunt is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of weirwood every season and control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Winter Solstice. As with the [[Night Quarry]], there is some resentment that the Hunt is Imperial, rather than a Varushkan national seat.

===The [[Granites of Veltsgorsk]]===
The Granites of Veltsgorks are a Bourse resource located deep in the mountains of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the Granites is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 26 Imperial wains of white granite every season. The seat is allocated during the Summer Solstice, to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[mine]] and [[forest]] resources.

===The [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]]===
Following the impact of the [[Starfall|falling star]] known as the Stalker or the Miscreant during the Autumn Equinox 380YE, the [[Thule]] [[orc|orcs]] arranged to [[Lantern's_light|provide some of the bounty]] of [[ilium]] the star provides to the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] people. The offices for overseeing this tribute are located at Void in the mountainous foothills of [[#Brez|Brez]]. Custodianship of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 4 rings of ilium every season. The seat is allocated during the Spring Equinox to whichever Varushkan candidate receives the most support from Varushkan owners of [[forest]] and [[mine]] resources.

===The Iron Roads===
The majority of the [[Varushkan Road|roads]] in Volodmartz are the result of a grand building project completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE. The Iron Roads were first proposed by the civil service [[Starting_at_the_end#The_Iron_Roads_of_Varushka|several years]] earlier. In Volodmartz, the project was somewhat more ambitious. Rather than just expanding on existing roads, the plan involved building a major road along the edges of the foothills north of [[#Triosk|Triosk]], passing by the [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] and then striking north-west through the dark woods of central Volodmartz to [[#Brez|Void]], and ultimately to [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Veltsgorsk]] in the shadow of the northern mountains. The new road linking to the Hunt of Alderei and the Fair and the Granites of Veltsgorsk required careful planning, and protection from the wolves of the forests, but once it was complete it greatly increased the prosperity of the territory.

==Regions==
===Brez===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Brez have a shadowy reputation among Varushkans. The peaks are high enough that they are perpetually shrouded in snow, even at the height of summer, and even the Iron Roads have not made the foothills much more accessible. The [[#The Granites of Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] lie high in the eastern peaks of the region, and it is said that without the presence of this valuable Bourse resource, no outsider would ever visit the peaks here despite the rich seams of copper, iron, silver and [[Materials#Tempest_Jade|tempest jade]] the mountains conceal.

The mountains are known to hold several strong [[regio]], associated primarily with the realm of Winter which have attracted [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] and magical scholars since before there was a Varushka. The cabalists of the mountains of Brez tend to be somewhat isolationist; the best known settlement is the vale of '''[[#Void|Void]]''' in the western foothills.

The southern peaks are the site of '''Ruin'''. Once a key mining settlement called ''Vikram's Haven'', its destruction in 349YE is generally believed to have been at the hands of a group of miners who delved too far into rocks under the broken peak above Alderei’s Run in search of rare ores. The vale did not survive their return. Precisely what led to the doom of Ruin is unclear, but scattered rumours suggest that the miners came upon a trove of ancient pre-Imperial artefacts, and fell prey either to a maddening curse or possession by malign occult forces. Ruin is now the occasional home of [[Warden]]-bands who seek to ensure no Vale makes the same mistake again, and is closely watched by the inhabitants of the nearby '''Vale of Gorazima''' who are keen to avoid a similar fate.

===Livardz===
*'''Quality:''' Ruins
The southernmost region of Volodmartz, and certainly the most densely settled, was once a prosperous crossroads where trade flowed freely. The vales here maintain close ties west to [[Miekarova]] and south to [[Karov]] - especially to the bustling port-town of [[Karov#Malimorzi|Korotny]] - and to the town of [[#Triosk|Triosk]] in [[Karsk]]. In addition to the permanent population, there are a number of vales who maintain their prosperity by catering to the [[Varushka_military_concerns|wagon raiders]] - either as a base of operations or serving as middle-men purchasing the raw materials they rip from the northern mountains and forests.

This changed in late 385YE when [[Cold Sun]] attacked the Empire. An army of ''scions'' called the [[Things_that_burn#The_Shepherds_of_Ash|Shepherds of Ash]] ravaged Volodmartz, and much of the damage was focused here. The scions themselves [[Eclipse#Shepherds_of_Ash|mysteriously vanished]] shortly after, lured into the ''Star Caves'' in pursuit of some hidden [[regio]] and never returning. The legacy of their attacks, however, left many of the vales [[Region_qualities#Ruined|in ruins]]. Nearly a dozen vales and settlements across Livardz were shattered or razed. Several hundred people were slain, many more forced to abandon their homes. Ever since, when the wind blows north through the woods where the ''Sumisev Peegel'' lies (the regio from which the Shepherds of Ash emerged), it brings with it the ashes of those the heralds obliterated. Some of the vales have been rebuilt, but Livardz has yet to reclaim the prosperity it once enjoyed.

===Murupa===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
Central Volodmartz is home to several vales and outposts drawn by the rich bounty of [[Materials#Dragonbone|Dragonbone]] that the forests promise. Several of the vales here maintain close ties with [[Miekarova#Perumaki|Razorwatch]] in [[Miekarova]] - and keep a close eye on the [[Miekarova#The Razors|Razors]] and the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|dark power]] that lurks beneath them. There is also a brisk trade in items scoured from the old battlefields, where Varushkan and Imperial forces fought Alderei's armies. The valley known as '''Alderei’s Run''' is the largest of these battlefields, the Tyrant-Boyar’s forces were finally destroyed by the Imperial Armies. Rumour says that Alderei can still be heard there, ordering his forces back into the fray.

To the north of the run are a series of small caves that Alderei’s army used for stores. They were generally referred to as '''The Star Caverns''', due to a prevalence of eroded carvings of star patterns attributed to the Ushka mystics. Some scholars suggested that some of the patterns were much older, probably pre-Terunael in origin. The caverns themselves contained a [[regio]] aligned with the realm of Day, whose power waxed and waned from season to season and year to year - studies suggested the strength of the regio was related to the position of certain [[Astronomancy|constellations]] especially the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Key|Key]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|Lock]]. In 385YE, allegedly following an agreement with the [[Night Below]] to destroy invading ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun]], the caverns were scoured by that dangerous sovereign. The carvings and the regio are both gone.

===Opascari===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Opascari are rich in gold, [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] and precious stones. Opascari is known in particular for its sapphires and emeralds, which are often of uncommon size and lustre. The range is also rich in [[mana site|mana sites]], often jealously guarded by and requiring regular protection from packs of hungry [[trogoni]] (among other things). While much of Opascari's wealth is mineral in nature, at the feet of the southern peaks lies the rich weirwood forest known as [[#The Hunt of Alderei the Fair|The Hunt of Alderei the Fair]]. High in the easternmost peaks, atop the mountain known as the Traveller, lies [[Sungold Pass]], although the mines there were ceded to the Thule as part of the [[Ratify Sungold Treaty|Sungold Treaty]]. The cavern known as [[Birds#Zoria's Cave|Zoria's Cave]] is found at the foot of the Black Hill, part of the Opascari mountains.

===Suvretz===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
A sprawling region of forests that extends to the eastern borders of Volodmartz and, by extension, the Empire. Many of the vales here are especially fortified, even for Volodmartz - fortifications designed to offer protection not only from wolves, but also from barbarian raiders coming down from the cold forests of barbarian [[Otkodov]]. There are few permanent settlements in the eastern woods - but many crow-haunted battlefields.

Of special interest in Suvretz is a place of legend named '''Runa's Loss'''. Runa was a [[draughir]] [[warden]] who watched the [[Varushkan_Monster|monsters]] of the hills with Toki, her [[changeling]] lover, an apprentice [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Volhov|volhov]]. Toki's master was seduced by an eternal of Winter (generally held to be [[Agramant]]), and Toki chose loyalty to master over love. Runa was one of the wardens who hunted and killed the volhov and all loyal to him. The Vale reminds all wardens that their calling is more important than lesser [[Loyalty|loyalties]], and is considered a site of pilgrimage for devotees of Loyalty and [[Vigilance]] - albeit a particularly perilous one. The vale maintains a careful watch not only over the eastern forests but also over the borders with [[Karsk]].<br>
{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorVolodmartz.jpg|caption='''Ostrik Vulpe''', Senator for Volodmartz|align=left|width=350}}
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Volodmartz|Territory=Volodmartz|Season=Autumn}}

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Volodmartz are under Imperial control.
* [[Mine|Mines]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 ingots each season.
* [[Forest|Forests]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Iron Roads|Iron Roads]] and produce an extra 2 measures each season.
[[Category:Varushka]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Dean of the First Voice Glade

2026-05-11T14:47:36Z

Rafferty: /* Opportunity */

==Overview==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is an Imperial title [[Construct First Voice Glade|created by the Imperial Senate in Autumn 382YE]]. The First Voice Glade School was destroyed by the [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|Empty Hands]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE. The Dean lost their seasonal income of herbs, but the title remained and retained its responsibilities. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, a new school was built in the glade and became an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to the teachings of the exemplar Geralt Brackensong. It currently serves as a [[great work]] supporting the [[herb garden|herb gardens]] of Miaren.

==Responsibilities==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is expected to uphold the musical and cultural traditions of the Navarr. These responsibilities include encouraging emerging and potential talent, ensuring Navarr musical traditions and history is honoured.

They have little in the way of administrative responsibilities to the school, but it is assumed that they will frequently lecture or run workshops, and so should be at least somewhat familiar with Navarr musical traditions and are expected to bebe passionate about furthering Navarr culture. If the Glade were to be threatened in any way, it would be the responsibility of the Dean to deal with those threats.

==Appointment==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is appointed by unanimous decision of the [[Navarr]] [[senator|senators]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by a Navarr citizen. The Dean has [[tenure]], and serves until they die or step down. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Navarr [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{Anchor|First Voice Glade (Ruined)}}
==First Voice Glade==
There have been two schools built at First Voice Glade. The original stood in a glade in [[Miaren#Oakways|Oakways]] that was chosen to mark the memory of the exemplar [[Known_exemplars#Gerallt_Brackensong|Gerallt Brackensong]], a Navarr bard who fell battling the [[vallorn]] at [[Therunin#Upper_Tarn_Valley|Return]]. [[Navarr_groups#Splitroot_Striding|Splitroot Striding]], the [[Navarr_groups#Splinterspears|Splinterspears]] and the Twisted Tree Tradehouse funded and built the small school at the location as part of an effort to ensure that Gerallt continued to provide a lasting legacy for future generations. The school quickly became a gathering place for members for several [[striding|stridings]]. The music school was strictly focused on Navarr traditions, training students in the musical traditions of that nation as well as other performing arts skills such as dancing, juggling, and fire performance.

When the [[eternal]] known as [[Cold Sun]] sent its ''scions'' to attack the Empire in 385YE, one of its armies - the Empty Hands - [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|appeared in Miaren]]. All the armies of Cold Sun are drawn to places of beauty, art, and culture and this brought their devastating attention down on First Voice Glade. The grand archon of the Empty Hand itself lead the force that burned the school, and while most of the staff and students made it to safety, the structure itself was torn apart. The beautiful trees and gardens that surrounded the school were transformed into cursed stone effigies, a painful symbol of the damage being done to the heart of the Navarr nation.

Then in Spring 386YE, Gerallt Brackensong was the subject of one of the first [[Writ of consecration|writs of consecrations]] issued by the [[Synod]]. Among the locations proposed for an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to his life, the ruins of First Voice Glade were preeminent. Doing so would require that the school be rebuilt however, a task that took over a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Rebuild_First_Voice_Glade|year to complete]]. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, however, a new school building was built in First Voice Glade. Brodi Brackensong was [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_70|entrusted]] by the General Assembly with the solemn task of [[consecration|consecrating]] the new inspirational location.

The new structure stands as a monument to the [[Pride]] Gerallt inspired in performers and storytellers across his nation. Pilgrims leave with a greater appreciation for Navarr music, and many are be inspired to celebrate and explore the songs and stories of their own people. The location also celebrates the kind of [[Watercolours_in_the_rain#With_Tomorrow_in_Mind|celebration of culture and beauty]] the Pride assembly proposed as a response to the hateful destruction of [[Cold Sun]]. While the site remains primarily of interest to the Navarr, it also serves as a place of pilgrimage for those who have seen the things they love ruined by the forces of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], providing reassurance that the beauty of the [[orc]] and human spirit can never truly be burnt away.

The twisted petrified trees created by the scions of Cold Sun still stand in the grounds of the school, but their austerity is counterbalanced by a profusion of brightly coloured flowers and new growth trees that blossom in the surrounding areas.
==Opportunity : Botanical Gardens==
The original First Voice Glade school had extensive botanical gardens, but they were overlooked in the rebuilding proposal presented by the [[Civil Service|civil service]]. With scores of visitors coming to the shrine, however, there is now a chance to recreate the gardens and take advantage of that with the school itself.

The work proposed is not insignificant, but if the gardens were restored to their former glory and a new classroom built, the Dean would resume receiving a bounty of herbs, but they would also be able to select a member of the Vallornguard to train and study with Navarr masters of herb lore. Provided the student was not already highly proficient, the skills they gained would provide them with permanent benefits, allowing them to grow more herbs each season.

This opportunity is described in the '''[[Every_path_you_know#Home_on_the_Remains|Every path you know]]''' wind of fortune presented during the Winter Solstice 387YE and remains available in its current form until the end of the Autumn Equinox 378YE (or until the situation changes significantly as per the [[opportunity]] rules).

{{RecentElections|Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade}}
[[Category:Navarr]]
[[Category:Title]]

Dean of the First Voice Glade

2026-05-11T14:47:05Z

Rafferty: /* First Voice Glade */

==Overview==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is an Imperial title [[Construct First Voice Glade|created by the Imperial Senate in Autumn 382YE]]. The First Voice Glade School was destroyed by the [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|Empty Hands]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE. The Dean lost their seasonal income of herbs, but the title remained and retained its responsibilities. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, a new school was built in the glade and became an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to the teachings of the exemplar Geralt Brackensong. It currently serves as a [[great work]] supporting the [[herb garden|herb gardens]] of Miaren.

==Responsibilities==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is expected to uphold the musical and cultural traditions of the Navarr. These responsibilities include encouraging emerging and potential talent, ensuring Navarr musical traditions and history is honoured.

They have little in the way of administrative responsibilities to the school, but it is assumed that they will frequently lecture or run workshops, and so should be at least somewhat familiar with Navarr musical traditions and are expected to bebe passionate about furthering Navarr culture. If the Glade were to be threatened in any way, it would be the responsibility of the Dean to deal with those threats.

==Appointment==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is appointed by unanimous decision of the [[Navarr]] [[senator|senators]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by a Navarr citizen. The Dean has [[tenure]], and serves until they die or step down. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Navarr [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{Anchor|First Voice Glade (Ruined)}}
==First Voice Glade==
There have been two schools built at First Voice Glade. The original stood in a glade in [[Miaren#Oakways|Oakways]] that was chosen to mark the memory of the exemplar [[Known_exemplars#Gerallt_Brackensong|Gerallt Brackensong]], a Navarr bard who fell battling the [[vallorn]] at [[Therunin#Upper_Tarn_Valley|Return]]. [[Navarr_groups#Splitroot_Striding|Splitroot Striding]], the [[Navarr_groups#Splinterspears|Splinterspears]] and the Twisted Tree Tradehouse funded and built the small school at the location as part of an effort to ensure that Gerallt continued to provide a lasting legacy for future generations. The school quickly became a gathering place for members for several [[striding|stridings]]. The music school was strictly focused on Navarr traditions, training students in the musical traditions of that nation as well as other performing arts skills such as dancing, juggling, and fire performance.

When the [[eternal]] known as [[Cold Sun]] sent its ''scions'' to attack the Empire in 385YE, one of its armies - the Empty Hands - [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|appeared in Miaren]]. All the armies of Cold Sun are drawn to places of beauty, art, and culture and this brought their devastating attention down on First Voice Glade. The grand archon of the Empty Hand itself lead the force that burned the school, and while most of the staff and students made it to safety, the structure itself was torn apart. The beautiful trees and gardens that surrounded the school were transformed into cursed stone effigies, a painful symbol of the damage being done to the heart of the Navarr nation.

Then in Spring 386YE, Gerallt Brackensong was the subject of one of the first [[Writ of consecration|writs of consecrations]] issued by the [[Synod]]. Among the locations proposed for an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to his life, the ruins of First Voice Glade were preeminent. Doing so would require that the school be rebuilt however, a task that took over a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Rebuild_First_Voice_Glade|year to complete]]. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, however, a new school building was built in First Voice Glade. Brodi Brackensong was [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_70|entrusted]] by the General Assembly with the solemn task of [[consecration|consecrating]] the new inspirational location.

The new structure stands as a monument to the [[Pride]] Gerallt inspired in performers and storytellers across his nation. Pilgrims leave with a greater appreciation for Navarr music, and many are be inspired to celebrate and explore the songs and stories of their own people. The location also celebrates the kind of [[Watercolours_in_the_rain#With_Tomorrow_in_Mind|celebration of culture and beauty]] the Pride assembly proposed as a response to the hateful destruction of [[Cold Sun]]. While the site remains primarily of interest to the Navarr, it also serves as a place of pilgrimage for those who have seen the things they love ruined by the forces of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], providing reassurance that the beauty of the [[orc]] and human spirit can never truly be burnt away.

The twisted petrified trees created by the scions of Cold Sun still stand in the grounds of the school, but their austerity is counterbalanced by a profusion of brightly coloured flowers and new growth trees that blossom in the surrounding areas.
==Opportunity==
The original First Voice Glade school had extensive botanical gardens, but they were overlooked in the rebuilding proposal presented by the [[Civil Service|civil service]]. With scores of visitors coming to the shrine, however, there is now a chance to recreate the gardens and take advantage of that with the school itself.

The work proposed is not insignificant, but if the gardens were restored to their former glory and a new classroom built, the Dean would resume receiving a bounty of herbs, but they would also be able to select a member of the Vallornguard to train and study with Navarr masters of herb lore. Provided the student was not already highly proficient, the skills they gained would provide them with permanent benefits, allowing them to grow more herbs each season.

This opportunity is described in the '''[[Every_path_you_know#Home_on_the_Remains|Every path you know]]''' wind of fortune presented during the Winter Solstice 387YE and remains available in its current form until the end of the Autumn Equinox 378YE (or until the situation changes significantly as per the [[opportunity]] rules).

{{RecentElections|Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade}}
[[Category:Navarr]]
[[Category:Title]]

Dean of the First Voice Glade

2026-05-11T14:41:34Z

Rafferty:

==Overview==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is an Imperial title [[Construct First Voice Glade|created by the Imperial Senate in Autumn 382YE]]. The First Voice Glade School was destroyed by the [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|Empty Hands]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE. The Dean lost their seasonal income of herbs, but the title remained and retained its responsibilities. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, a new school was built in the glade and became an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to the teachings of the exemplar Geralt Brackensong. It currently serves as a [[great work]] supporting the [[herb garden|herb gardens]] of Miaren.

==Responsibilities==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is expected to uphold the musical and cultural traditions of the Navarr. These responsibilities include encouraging emerging and potential talent, ensuring Navarr musical traditions and history is honoured.

They have little in the way of administrative responsibilities to the school, but it is assumed that they will frequently lecture or run workshops, and so should be at least somewhat familiar with Navarr musical traditions and are expected to bebe passionate about furthering Navarr culture. If the Glade were to be threatened in any way, it would be the responsibility of the Dean to deal with those threats.

==Appointment==
The Dean of the First Voice Glade is appointed by unanimous decision of the [[Navarr]] [[senator|senators]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by a Navarr citizen. The Dean has [[tenure]], and serves until they die or step down. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Navarr [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{Anchor|First Voice Glade (Ruined)}}
==First Voice Glade==
There have been two schools built at First Voice Glade. The original stood in a glade in [[Miaren#Oakways|Oakways]] that was chosen to mark the memory of the exemplar [[Known_exemplars#Gerallt_Brackensong|Gerallt Brackensong]], a Navarr bard who fell battling the [[vallorn]] at [[Therunin#Upper_Tarn_Valley|Return]]. [[Navarr_groups#Splitroot_Striding|Splitroot Striding]], the [[Navarr_groups#Splinterspears|Splinterspears]] and the Twisted Tree Tradehouse funded and built the small school at the location as part of an effort to ensure that Gerallt continued to provide a lasting legacy for future generations. The school quickly became a gathering place for members for several [[striding|stridings]]. The music school was strictly focused on Navarr traditions, training students in the musical traditions of that nation as well as other performing arts skills such as dancing, juggling, and fire performance.

When the [[eternal]] known as [[Cold Sun]] sent its ''scions'' to attack the Empire in 385YE, one of its armies - the Empty Hands - [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|appeared in Miaren]]. All the armies of Cold Sun are drawn to places of beauty, art, and culture and this brought their devastating attention down on First Voice Glade. The grand archon of the Empty Hand itself lead the force that burned the school, and while most of the staff and students made it to safety, the structure itself was torn apart. The beautiful trees and gardens that surrounded the school were transformed into cursed stone effigies, a painful symbol of the damage being done to the heart of the Navarr nation.

Then in Spring 386YE, Gerallt Brackensong was the subject of one of the first [[Writ of consecration|writs of consecrations]] issued by the [[Synod]]. Among the locations proposed for an [[inspirational location]] dedicated to his life, the ruins of First Voice Glade were preeminent. Doing so would require that the school be rebuilt however, a task that took over a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Rebuild_First_Voice_Glade|year to complete]]. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 387YE, however, a new school building was built in First Voice Glade. Brodi Brackensong was [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_70|entrusted]] by the General Assembly with the solemn task of [[consecration|consecrating]] the new inspirational location.

The new structure stands as a monument to the [[Pride]] Gerallt inspired in performers and storytellers across his nation. Pilgrims leave with a greater appreciation for Navarr music, and many are be inspired to celebrate and explore the songs and stories of their own people. The location also celebrates the kind of [[Watercolours_in_the_rain#With_Tomorrow_in_Mind|celebration of culture and beauty]] the Pride assembly proposed as a response to the hateful destruction of [[Cold Sun]]. While the site remains primarily of interest to the Navarr, it also serves as a place of pilgrimage for those who have seen the things they love ruined by the forces of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], providing reassurance that the beauty of the [[orc]] and human spirit can never truly be burnt away.

The twisted petrified trees created by the scions of Cold Sun still stand in the grounds of the school, but their austerity is counterbalanced by a profusion of brightly coloured flowers and new growth trees that blossom in the surrounding areas.

{{RecentElections|Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade}}
[[Category:Navarr]]
[[Category:Title]]

Imperial Apothecaries Guild

2026-05-11T14:26:16Z

Rafferty:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}
==The Manifesto==
The sodality is dedicated to the advancement, education, and support of apothecaries and other practitioners of the herbal arts across the Empire. It holds the following to be true:

* Apothecaries are a cornerstone of the Empire.
* Only through unity and shared discovery can we unlock our art's full potential.
* Our expertise should be valued and fairly compensated, not taken for granted.

The sodality therefore exists to:

* Coordinate and support the research, development, and dissemination of ingredients, potions, poisons, antidotes, and drugs to Imperial citizens.
* To serve as the point of contact for bodies of state when apothecary and herbalist advice is required.
* To represent and support the interests of apothecaries and herbalists within the Empire.

==Symbol==
The Imperial Apothecaries' symbol is a pestle and mortar.

==Membership==
Any Imperial citizen can join the sodality using the [[Mark of Fellowship]] ritual.
__TOC__
==Powers==
As of the end of the Spring Equinox 387YE, the [[Senate]] has [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild|confirmed that the power and authority to disseminate knowledge of potions]] across the Empire lies with the sodality. Its members are also responsible for electing the Guild Leader of the Imperial Apothecaries.

The constitutional court identified [[It%27s_what_we_do#Imperial_Lore|a range of legal powers]] that the Senate could grant to the Apothecaries Guild if they chose. The existence of the Guild would make it constitutionally difficult for the Imperial Senate to grant these powers to any other legal body (or title unless that title were appointed by the Guild).

If an [[opportunity]] were identified where the sodality could be deployed, then it would be down to a vote of the members.

===Guild Leader===
The Guild Leader of the Imperial Apothecaries is an Imperial title awarded to a member of the Imperial Apothecaries. Though the title is "''Guild Leader''", this represents an oversight by the constitutional court during [[scrutiny]]. Under normal circumstances, the court do not permit the Senate to create Imperial titles with names that imply that they are in charge or have authority over an organisation or group of citizens. Legally the sodality has nobody who is in charge, the Guild Leader is expected to be a mouthpiece for the sodality, with the responsibility to represent their sodality's views to other parts of the Empire, to recruit new members, and to advance the sodality's goals and the members' interests.

====Donations====
Since the manifesto was amended during the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Guild Leader has received four drams each of [[bladeroot]], [[cerulean Mazzarine|cerulean mazzarine]], [[Imperial roseweald]], [[marrowort]], and [[true vervain]] from apothecaries in [[the League]] and [[the Brass Coast]]. These donations will continue as long as the sodality holds that apothecaries' expertise should be valued and fairly compensated.

====Appointment====
The Guild Leader is selected by members of the sodality. Only a member of the sodality can present themselves for the title, and only a member of the sodality can vote in the election. The candidate who gains the most votes from the members of the sodality is elected to the title.

<div style="float: right; width=300px; margin-right:10px; margin-left: 10px; clear: right;">
{{#lst:Archive:All_Election_Results|Guild_Leader_of_the_Imperial_Apothecaries}}
</div>
====Recent Elections====
{{#lst:Archive:All_Election_Results|Guild_Leader_of_the_Imperial_Apothecaries_election}} The table to the right shows the citizens who have been elected to hold {{{2|this title}}} in the years since [[Empress Britta]] died.

===Imperial Lore===
A [[Potion#Herbal|herbal]] is a rare, magical item that contains all the details necessary to create a [[potion]] or set of potions. If a member of the guild has possession of a herbal then the Apothecaries Guild can vote to add the herbal to Imperial lore.

If that vote passes, then the civil service take the herbal so that it can be used to disseminate the contents; it is consumed in the process of making the potion or recipe set public knowledge. After the summit is over, any citizen of the Empire will be able to learn how to make the potion or set of potions.

In addition, ten thrones are be required to pay for distribution of the knowledge ('''OOC Note:''' These funds would need to be placed in the inventory of a character, who should email {{plot}} with details of their CID and the herbal being paid for after the event.)

==History==
There have been several iterations of a "Guild of Apothecaries" over the Empire's history. Groups of like-minded individuals coming together to organise prices and influence senators and members of the Conclave. Occasionally, these groups managed to demonstrate their value enough to be unofficially recognised by various bodies of state, but the momentum slowed before they could truly establish themselves. The Imperial Apothecaries was created by the Senate during the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Create_Imperial_Apothecaries'_Guild|Winter Solstice 386YE]], as the first Imperial sodality since the death of [[Empress Britta]].

The sodality journeyed to [[Therunin]] in an attempt to neutralise the poison in Lower Tarn Valley using ''Ioric's Elixir''; a strange concoction [[Wasp_nest#Isolating_an_Antidote|uncovered]] in Anvil. They were prevented from doing so by the Druj, and instead, the majority set to work helping the refugees, providing much-needed medical assistance to those who had been injured. Many moved to bolster the defences of the Upper Tarn, or turned back entirely to help evacuate Peakedge Song. In many ways, the Empire was fortunate - the efforts of the Imperial Apothecaries' Guild have still cost the Senate ten thrones, but the leadership and direction of the sodality prevented the outcome from being much worse.

During the Winter Solstice 387YE, the manifesto of the Guild was amended [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Manifesto_of_the_Apothecaries_Guild|not once]], but [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Manifesto_of_the_Apothecaries_Guild_II|twice]]. This added a set of central tenets, and adjusted the wording on some of their activities. The main change to the latter was to change their focus on apothecary arts to apply only to Imperial citizens.

==Guildhouse==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Apothecaries' Guildhouse'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Herbal School</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 60 white granite, 60 weirwood, and 25 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Creates the title Speaker of the Apothecaries</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 12 thrones or 10 thrones if built in Skarsind</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Speaker of the Apothecaries'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Simple vote of the Apothecaries Guild</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Can oversee development of new ways for Imperial apothecaries to use herbs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To guide the sodality's research of new potions and protect the Guildhouse.</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The opportunity remains for a guildhouse to be built that would draw apothecaries from across the Empire'''
* '''Such a guildhouse would need to be overseen by a title with the power to direct research'''
* '''The title would need to be appointed by simple vote of the Apothecaries Guild'''
Following the tragic destruction of [[Thornsinger#Thornsong_House|Thornsong House]] by the Druj, there is an opportunity for the sodality to establish a guildhouse somewhere in the Empire. The guildhouse would function as a herbal school, with an Imperial title to oversee it and [[Thornsinger#Guide_the_Apothecaries|guide the apothecaries]] in a similar manner to the Thornsinger. Following the Winter Solstice 387YE, and the rescue of several [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|fleeing apothecaries]], the guildhouse will have a reduced labour cost.

The [[Yerende]] put forward a suggestion that it be built in [[Skarsind]] when the sodality was [[It%27s_what_we_do#Weeds_and_Seeds|first ratified]]. If the guildhouse were built in Skarsind, then its upkeep would be reduced to ten thrones a season.

==Further Reading==
* [[It's what we do]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune about the establishment of the sodality
* [[To hold death's hand in mine]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the efforts of the sodality
[[Category:Imperial Sodality]]
[[Category:Title]]