Stella

Stella is a town in central Chrichheim, Empire of Man. The market town, surrounded by rich farmland, expanded rapidly during its history, eventually connecting the castle, old town, and port into the combined town that exists today. Stella is the administrative centre and main settlement of the Nasstella area. Throughout Chrichheim's history Stella has been considered a town of strategic significance, due in large part to its economic importance.
The wolf is considered an important symbol of the town. This originates from a pre-Imperial legend, in which an orc night raid was repulsed when a wolf's howl roused a sentry. This guard then alerted the garrison, who together were able to force an orc retreat. Even today, the wolf appears on the town's crest.
The town is watched over by Stella Castle, which is considered an important military stronghold.
== Characteristics ==
=== History ===
A cist is Stella's oldest known settled site. This cist is believed to be about four thousand years old, meaning that it was constructed long before the Empire existed. It has also been thought that some standing stones near the town may be about three thousand years old, however others believe that they are a lot more recent. Unfortunately for scholars any early structures have long since been destroyed, however it is thought that a pre-Imperial fort existed on the site for hundreds of years.
In pre-Imperial times, the site of the town was considered strategically important and so was the location of many skirmishes and battles by opposing clans. Even in the early Imperial times and the Imperial Golden Age, clan leaders and nobles would still argue and fight over control of the area. During the Imperial Collapse and Civil War, the town expanded rapidly as a result of wartime economic demands. During the Emergence War against the Arachi Stella, like so many Imperial settlements, was captured and devastated. However Stella Castle in particular is noted to have put up a fierce resistance, needing to be besieged eight times before it finally fell.
During The Restoration, a small battle took place between opposing Royalist and Republican armies. This battle, called the Second Battle of Sterling, resulted in a Royalist victory.
=== Geography ===
Stella is located in the heart of Chrichheim. The town is strategically positioned amidst rich farmland, which supports its economic prosperity and rapid expansion. The terrain of Stella is predominantly flat and expansive, ideal for agriculture, which forms the backbone of the local economy. The climate is temperate, marked by moderate summers and mild winters, conducive to farming and comfortable living. Overlooking the town is Stella Castle, situated on a slight rise, providing a commanding view of the surrounding area.
=== Economy ===
Stella's economy is robust and diverse, driven by agriculture, trade, and strategic military importance. The surrounding fertile farmlands yield an abundance of crops and support livestock; the area is even considered one of the most agriculturally productive expanses of land in the whole of Chrichheim. The presence on Loch Mor's coast enhances its trade capabilities, allowing for the efficient transport of goods and attracting merchants from various parts of the empire. Additionally, Stella benefits economically from its castle, which not only serves as a military stronghold but also draws craftsmen, artisans, and service providers catering to the needs of the garrison and visitors. The town's market is a bustling hub where local produce, artisan crafts, and enchanted items are traded.
=== Culture ===
Stella fosters a vibrant communal life marked by both tradition and innovation. The town celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, many rooted in ancient customs, such as the Wolf Festival, which commemorates the legendary night a wolf’s howl saved the town from an orc raid. This event features parades, re-enactments, and a night of bonfires, where tales of old battles and mythical heroes are shared. The presence of Stella Castle adds a regal dimension to the town’s cultural events, hosting tournaments and fairs that attract fighters, bards, and travellers from across the Empire. Art and music thrive here as well, with local artisans and performers drawing inspiration both from the town’s scenic landscapes and its storied past. Walking the Marches is also a local tradition, most likely starting during the Imperial Golden Age. This tradition involves a walk around the town's boundaries, originally done as a protective necessity, followed by a large dinner.
== Trivia ==
* Stella is heavily inspired by the city of Stirling, Scotland.