Armskirk

== Description ==
Armskirk is undoubtedly the mightiest fortress of Eccasior. Built on a hill, it overlooks the surrounding landscape. Its massive walls stand proud and its well-trained populace ready to defend their home against all odds. Though a village had existed here since the first imperial settlers arrived, its origin as a proper settlement can be traced back to the start of the Eccasiorian Wars.
A large military force established an outpost here to guard the passage between the Dragonsfell Mountains and the Laurian Hights. Undisturbed, they continuously reinforced their defences. Even as the kingdoms around them fell, the new citizens of Armskirk kept up their watch. One the Eccasiorian Wars ended, Armskirk declared itself a neutral barony.
During the Lurian Wars the city was approached by Cassida of Luria with an offer of alliance. Though reluctant, they saw her swift conquest of the Longoine Kingdom and her impressive military conquests and decided to join the rising power, becoming one of the few powers in Eccasior to side with her.
Though the alliance was quickly amended to one of annexation, the city to this day maintains an unusual amount of privileges. They are exempt from paying most taxes, instead providing loyal soldiers and officers to the Empire of Lauria. Since then, much of the population has been mixed and replaced my immigrating workers and soldiers from Luria and is now firmly under its control.
=== The Old Bastion ===
This district is the original core of Armskirk, dating back to its earliest days as a military outpost. Though smaller than the newer sections of the city, its narrow streets are filled with history. Some of the oldest fortifications still stand, now repurposed into homes and shops. The Old Forge is a famous blacksmithing shop, said to have produced the swords of many Kings and Queens of Eccasior. The district has a quieter, more solemn feel, where veterans gather to reflect on their service. Veterans traditionally carve their name and rank into the old walls of the city to mark their continued dedication to the city's defence even after their retirement. The Worn Shield Tavern is a humble inn known for its stories and quiet corners, frequented by retired soldiers.
Some points of Interest:
* "Old Forge" - Blacksmith's Shop
* "The Worn Shield Tavern" - Tavern
=== Stonehelm Keep ===
Situated atop a hill near the centre of the city, Stonehelm Keep is a massive, near impenetrable fortress that serves as the seat of the city's government. It houses the ruling governor, military command, and the city’s defences. The keep has stood as an unbreachable stronghold for centuries, a symbol of the city's unshakable defence. Beneath the keep lies The Hall of Heroes, a crypt honouring the greatest warriors of the city, where statues and carvings tell the tales of Eccasior's mightiest soldiers.
Some points of Interest:
* "The Hall of Heroes" - Crypt, Museum
=== The Redoubt ===
The Redoubt is the heart of Armskirk’s military might. Home to barracks, training grounds, and administrative buildings, soldiers can be seen drilling at all hours, and the streets are patrolled by heavily armoured guards. The Fortress Academy, a prestigious military school, is located here. This academy has produced some of Eccasior's most legendary generals, and Cassida of Luria was said to have been briefly enrolled in the academy. Monuments such as The Tower of Blades, a towering structure displaying the weapons of Laurian enemies defeated during the Laurian Wars, stand as symbols of victory. The Eagle's Gaze, a famous inn catering to visiting officers and diplomats, is a hub of political and military intrigue.
Some points of Interest:
* "Fortress Academy" - Military Academy
* "The Tower of Blades" - Monument
* "The Eagle's Gaze" - Tavern
=== The Iron Ring ===
The outer district of Armskirk, home to the common folk, artisans, blacksmiths, and the militia. The streets are lined with forges and weapon shops, the air thick with the scent of steel and fire. The people here are hardy and resilient, accustomed to the clanging of steel and the military drills that echo through the streets. Inns like The War Horn and The Soldier’s Rest are bustling with soldiers from across the empire, while shops like Steelwright’s Armory sell weapons, armour, and supplies.
It is also home to both the Steel Bulwark, a massive outer wall reinforced with iron plating, designed to withstand siege engines and artillery. Its towers are armed with ballistae and trebuchets and the Bastion Line, a second inner wall surrounding the Redoubt, Stonehelm Keep and the Old Bastion, equipped with advanced fortifications and traps. It is guarded by elite soldiers trained specifically for defence.
Some points of Interest:
* "The War Horn" - Inn
* "The Soldier’s Rest " - Inn
* "Steelwright’s Armory" - Weapon and armour shop
* "Laurian Postal Office" - Government Building