Chriban

Chriban is a village and the largest settlement in Angus, Chrichheim, with a population of 530. It sits on the shore of the River Konig.
There is evidence of a pre-Imperial settlement, but its history as a village began with the founding of Chriban Abbey during the Imperial Golden Age. It grew quickly due to the flax and jute industries it controlled and, indeed, still relies to this day. The village is also a notable location for freshwater fishing and is an important port along the River Konig.
The town is also notable for the Chriban smokie, a type of smoked fish.
== Characteristics ==
=== History ===
The area of Chriban has been inhabited for thousands of years. Pre-Imperial finds are abundant in the area. This includes short-cist burials which have yielded pottery urns, a pair of silver discs, and a gold armlet - among others. Pre-Imperial stone carvings suggest that the area had been of some importance during this time - though the exact reason why is unknown.
The recorded history of Chriban as it exists today begins with the founding of the abbey during the Imperial Golden Age. It was dedicated to Veritar, God of Peace. During the Emergence War the Battle of Arbroath saw two Chrichheimer clans battle over a noble title. The battle itself would see about 500 dead and the abbey badly damaged. Shortly after the Arachi would attack the village, swiftly overwhelming the remaining defenders and leaving large parts of the abbey destroyed. Even after the Arachi were defeated, the abbey would fall into disuse and disrepair. The roof was rumoured to have been used during the Imperial Civil War. Only ruins remain today.
More recently, the village has become an important port along the River Konig. It is a particularly valuable asset for the Imperial military, who use the village as a landing point for men and supplies to Chrichheim.
=== Geography ===
Chriban enjoys a strategic position that has shaped its development and significance within Angus. The village is nestled on the shores of the River Konig, providing fertile lands that are ideal for the cultivation of flax and jute. A small island in the middle of the river provides an additional point from which boats can load and unload their goods. The surrounding terrain is a mix of gentle rolling hills and flat expanses that stretch towards the river, creating a picturesque setting that is both functional for agriculture and appealing for settlement. This advantageous location has allowed Chriban to thrive both as a farming community and as a riverine port, facilitating trade and transportation.
The climate in Chriban is temperate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, humid summers, which are conducive to the growth of the village’s staple crops as well as supporting a rich natural biodiversity along the riverbanks. Frequent mists roll in from the river, adding a mystical quality to the landscape. The weather patterns contribute to the village’s robust fishing industry, with the River Konig teeming with fish that thrive in the cool, nutrient-rich waters.
Just east of the village lies an area of craggy rocks with a large number of rock pool exposed at low tide. These rocks and shingle extend for a short while until they lessen at the Chriban East Links beach. This gently sloping beach is a combination of pebbles and sand and the sea here is a popular swimming location for the locals during the summer months.
=== Economy ===
Chriban's prosperity is largely driven by the flax and jute industries, which have been integral to its growth since the Imperial Golden Age. These industries, for the most part, dominate local manufacturing and provide employment for many of the local villagers. The processed fibres are used in everything from clothing to artisanal crafts, contributing significantly to the local market. Additionally, Chriban’s position on the River Konig makes it a pivotal port, facilitating trade and transport of goods upstream and downstream.
Fishing is another cornerstone of the village's economy. The river's abundant fish stocks are expertly utilized by local fishermen whose techniques have been honed over generations.
=== Culture ===
Chriban's cultural landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven from its historical heritage, closely linked to its economic activities, and infused with the mystique of a high fantasy setting. Central to the village's cultural identity is the Chriban Abbey, around which much of the local history revolves. Every year, on the anniversary of the Battle of Chriban, the locals hold a festival at the abbey to celebrate their heritage. These festivals often feature traditional music, dance, and storytelling that recount the village’s past.
In addition to its historical tradition, Chriban is known for Chriban smokies, a local delicacy only produced in the village. Smokies are made from river fish, usually trout, that are caught locally. The fish are first salted overnight to preserve them, then left tied in pairs to dry. Next, the dried fish are hung in a covered barrel containing a hardwood fire. After 45 minutes to an hour of smoking, the fish are golden brown and ready to eat.
== Trivia ==
* Chriban is based on the town of Arbroath, Scotland.