Fort Thicket

Fort Thicket, previously Phris, is a village in central Chrichheim, Empire of Man. Geographically, it is located on the southern coast of Loch Mor and is part of the Nasthicket area of The Lowlands. It has a population of 470 people.
It is said that the site of the village was first settled by a pre-Imperial clan chief called 'The Doomhammer' though the early history of Fort Thicket is almost entirely lost to the historical record.
Fort Thicket is nicknamed Queen of the South by Chrichheimers.
== Characteristics ==
=== History ===
Almost all of Fort Thicket's early pre-Imperial history is unknown, though local legend says that the site the village now sits upon was originally settled by a clan chief known only as 'The Doomhammer.' Two accounts of the story exist. In one, The Doomhammer founded a great fortress on the site and fought many battle there before finally falling to an unknown enemy. In the other, The Doomhammer created a sacred grove dedicated to a pagan old faith; he defended this site for many years before he and the grove fell to an unknown enemy.
Old records indicate that some form of settlement existed on the site of modern Fort Thicket in late pre-Imperial times. It isn't until just after the founding the Empire and Kylune's reign that clear record of settlement at Fort Thicket becomes obvious. The now ruined Phris Abbey was founded around this time, as was the first version of Fort Thicket - a simple motte and bailey castle. Albert of Dunedyn allegedly visited the village shortly after his final victory against Rynhart the Pious. Despite being built-up during the Imperial Golden Age, the first version of Fort Thicket would be razed to the ground by Arachi during the Emergence War.
Nevertheless, the village would continue and a second Fort Thicket would be constructed during the Age of the Republic. The Midsteeple that sits in the centre of the village was completed shortly after.
=== Geography ===
Fort Thicket is situated on the southern coast of Loch Mor, a vast freshwater sea that sits in the centre of Chrichheim, within the Nasthicket area of The Lowlands. The village is nestled amidst rolling hills and dense woodlands, offering a picturesque yet rugged landscape. The terrain around Fort Thicket is a mix of fertile valleys and forested highlands, providing a diverse range of natural resources. The climate is temperate maritime, characterised by mild, wet winters and cool, damp summers, with frequent fog and mist rolling off the loch. Fort Thicket also experiences little snowfall compared to the rest of the county. This consistent moisture supports lush vegetation, with the surrounding forests teeming with ancient trees and underbrush, while the open areas are dotted with heather and wildflowers. However, the unpredictable weather makes life a challenge - particularly for those whose livelihood relies on the sea.
=== Economy ===
The economy of Fort Thicket is primarily agrarian, with a strong emphasis on sheep farming and wool production. The fertile land also supports crop cultivation, particularly barley and oats, which are essential for both local consumption and trade. Timber from the dense surrounding forests is another significant economic resource, used for building and crafting. The presence of the Imperial Army in the actual Fort Thicket provides additional economic stability, as the garrison requires a steady supply of goods and services that are provided by the commonfolk. Small-scale fishing in Loch Mor supplements the villagers' diet and contributes to the local market, though the risk of this profession is amplified by the area's unpredictable weather. The same goes for Fort Thicket's status in the county trade network. In theory, its presence on the shore of Loch Mor should make it a local trading hub, which is certainly is to an extent, however the risky weather means that the village has never been able to live up to its full potential in this way.
=== Culture ===
The culture of Fort Thicket is deeply rooted in tradition and communal life. The villagers are known for their strong sense of community and resilience, often coming together to celebrate seasonal festivals and to assist one another during times of hardship. Traditional music and dance play a significant role in local gatherings, with fiddle tunes and folk songs passed down through generations. Storytelling is a cherished art, and local legends are commonly shared around hearth fires.
There are a number of festivals that take place throughout the year. Perhaps the most notable among these is the Good Neighbours Festival, a ceremony that is largely based on the theme of a positive community spirit. There is also the annual Morraid, a boat race along the coast of Loch Mor. It should be noted that the actual nate of the Morraid is somewhat flexible due to the unpredictability of local weather, though it traditional takes place during the summer months.
== Trivia ==
* Fort Thicket is inspired by the real life Scottish town of Dumfries.