Twilight of Empires

Forest Gate is a heavily fortified town on the northern edge of Boisnoir territory, marking the southern edge of the Fallow Marches. As recently as a century ago, it was an official military position of the army of the Asterian Empire, but politics, location, and budget reallocation led to it being reassigned to the local lord.

The town is home to over two thousand people, most directly or indirectly supporting Count Bois military presence here. The Old Trade Road passes through the town.

Forest Gate is not self sufficient, but does operate enough farmland to cover the town's fresh vegetable needs. Most meat comes from hunting the wild game of the Camwood, while flour and more complicated items are brought in from Bois Seat. The town exports enough herbs and hides that it isn't a complete money sink for the Count.

The town was the primary border post for the Empire on the edge of the Marches, and Count Bois has chosen to maintain that stance for now. There are about two hundred troops here, mostly infantry and archers, with a competent core of mages/spirit tamers. No actual cavalry. In times of war, the town deploys a unit of Woodland Archers to bolster the Count's forces: a mobile ranged foot unit that excels in bad terrain deployments.

• Axel: Human male, early 30s. Sergent in the Baronial guard. Reasonably experienced for his post, even if he hasn't seen combat any more serious than repelling bandits.
• Darring: Human male, late forties. Priest of the Road God. Had a short adventuring career before Higher Powers instructed him to settle on the Trade Road. Acts as the Voice Of Experience when it comes to Weird Stuff.
• Della: Kobold female, age 17. Priestess of the Fire God. Not as temperamental as her patron, but has the impetuousness down pat. Not so much ignorant as inexperienced.