Tarvosa

Tarvosa is a village in the county of Chrichheim, built on the shore of Loch Mor. With a population of about 830, it is considered one of the larger villages in the county. As well as it's position on the shore of Loch Mor, Tarvosa also marks the headwaters of the short-lived River Chrich, which flows into the larger River Konig. The village was originally established as a trading port for the many settlements built on and around Loch Mor, but overtime has established a few additional industries - including fishing, linen-weaving, and tanning. Some of the notable constructions in Tarvosa include: the ruins of Tarvosa Castle (also known as The Arch), the beach, the harbour, and the North Mor College.
== Characteristics ==
Tarvosa's geographical features come two-fold. First, the village is constructed on the shore of Loch Mor, the largest lake in Chrichheim. As well as this, the village also marks the headwaters for the River Chrich, with Loch Mor itself being the source for this river. The River Chrich runs twice through the village and multiple bridges keep the inhabitants connected. Though several roadways connect Tarvosa to other settlements within the county, perhaps the most efficient means of travel is via the water - as several ferries offer their services.
It is believed that the area around Tarvosa has been inhabited for thousands of years, as cairns found around the countryside date back at least 5,000 years. It is likely, then, that the pre-Chrichheim tribes settled the area in order to access local waterways. It is believed that the village as we know it today was originally founded and governed by Clan Sinclair of Week, but they lost it to the then newly-established Clan Ross - who control it to this very day. A popular legend from this time tells how a member of Clan Ross killed the leader of Clan Sinclair in battle after a button from his coat became snagged on a bush.
Tarvosa's economy is mainly tied to fishing, which is not surprising given the village's location. As well as this, the village also has a notable tanning industry as well as a pretty decent linen-weaving industry. Tanning as, interestingly, been another traditional industry for the inhabitants of Tarvosa - typically involving the creation of leathers from nearby livestock farms. As well as these major industries, there are also a wide variety of smaller businesses scattered across Tarvosa. These businesses include: a carpenter, a tailor, a doll shop, a book shop, and a shop for trinkets and curiosities. These businesses are almost exclusively owned by local families and have existed in Tarvosa in some form or another for generations.
== Layout ==
=== Big J's Inn ===
Big J's Inn is a small and somewhat rundown establishment located on the northern outskirts of Tarvosa. Being of poor quality, it's known for providing the bare essentials and little else, often regarded as a last resort for those unable to secure accommodations elsewhere in the village. The inn's rooms are often in need of repair, with creaky floorboards and drafty windows. The common room is dimly lit and sparsely furnished, serving as a gathering place for a regular clientele of poorer locals and the occasional adventurous traveller. Big J's is named after it's owner, Julia McIntyre.
The owner of The Weary Traveller, Julia McIntyre, is a stern and no-nonsense woman in her late fifties. She inherited the inn from her parents, who ran it with a bit more care, but over the years, maintaining the inn's standards has not been her priority. Instead, Julia sees her 'true calling' in poetry. She sees herself as a minstrel in the making, though her poetry is often vulgar, blunt, and not particularly well-received. Julia is known for her sharp tongue and cheap nature, often seen bartering over prices with suppliers or rebuking others for wastefulness.
The bartender at Big J's is a rock golem known simply as Gaggle. No one in the village knows where Gaggle is actually from, nor his life story, for he just wandered into town one day. Gaggle has been working at the inn for several years and is well-liked by the regulars for his friendly demeanour, easy-going nature and good humour. Despite the inn's shortcomings, he does his best to keep spirits high, both figuratively and literally. Despite not being able to speak, Gaggle's familiarity with the inn's regular patrons, as well as his easy-going attitude, provide a well-needed sense of warmth to the otherwise dilapidated establishment.
=== Ruins of Tarvosa Castle ===
Found near the shore of the River Chrich, Tarvosa Castle was once a prominent fortress constructed to protect the town and the river source. In its heyday, the castle was built over the River Chrich like an archway, leading to those stationed there to nickname it 'The Arch.' However, it became less important overtime so when a fire gutted most of the castle the county leaders decided to demolish it. Only a piece of the wall and a single tower remain. Despite no longer possessing its original archway construction, the castle's nickname persists to this day.
=== Church of Horuna ===
The Church of Horuna stands gracefully in the heart of Tarvosa, dedicated to Horuna, the Goddess of Seasons. This sacred building reflects the cycles of nature in its architecture, with stained glass windows depicting the spring bloom, summer sun, autumn harvest, and winter frost. It serves as a spiritual centre for the village and its surrounding areas, where citizens gather to celebrate seasonal festivals and rites that honour the changing aspects of life and nature. The church is surrounded by a small garden that is tended to year-round, showcasing plants that flourish in each different season, thereby embodying the goddess's ever-changing expressions.
The head priest of the Church of Horuna, Father Colton Bain, is a devoted servant of Horuna with a deep understanding of the cycles of nature and their spiritual significance. At 80 years of age, Father Alaric is known for his gentle and nurturing demeanour, which endears him to his congregation. He has been serving in this role for over three decades, guiding his community through life's seasonal rhythms with wisdom and compassion. Father Colton is also an avid gardener, often found tending to the church garden, which he considers an extension of his pastoral duties. His ability to connect the teachings of Horuna to everyday life often helps parishioners find harmony and balance in their own lives.
=== Craftwood Carpentry ===
Craftwood Carpentry is a well-established woodworking shop, located in the village's north. The workshop is known for its skilled craftsmanship and the quality of its custom-made furniture, cabinetry, and architectural woodwork. Craftwood Carpentry prides itself on using locally sourced wood, combining traditional techniques with modern design to create pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The shop also offers repair and restoration services, helping to preserve the longevity of cherished wooden items within the community.
The owner of Craftwood Carpentry, Scarlett McLaughlin, is an experienced carpenter in her late fifties, renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and creative designs. Scarlett inherited the passion for woodworking from her father, who was also a carpenter, and has dedicated many years to perfecting her craft. This in spite of a collapsed lung, sustained during a freak accident, that means she runs out of breath incredibly quickly. Her workshop is a hub of activity, often filled with the sound of sawing and sanding as he transforms rough lumber into beautiful, finished products. Scarlett is approachable and respected in the community, known for her reliability and commitment to her craft.
=== Second Chance ===
Second Chance is a thrift store, located near the north of Tarvosa, that provides residents and visitors with an opportunity to purchase pre-owned items at affordable prices. The store features a variety of goods, from clothing and household items to books and small furniture, all neatly organized and displayed. Second Chance not only offers economical options for shoppers but also promotes sustainability by encouraging the recycling and reuse of goods. It is also known to be more of a charity than a business, as the goods sold here are at incredibly low prices to the point of them barely being profitable.
The owner of Second Chance, Terra Thomas, is an Earth Genasi known for her grounded nature and practical approach to business. Terra was a minor noble in another county and, like many young nobles, joined the Imperial Army when she was young. However, Terra deserted for reasons she has yet to say. Eventually settling down in Tarvosa, she is unsurprisingly passionate about helping the community and often organizes local charity drives through the store, providing a way for residents to give back. Terra sees the store as a second chance for herself, hence the name.
=== Ross House ===
Ross House is a significant landmark in Tarvosa, functioning as both the village hall and the ancestral home of Clan Ross, the leading clan of the village. This grand manor-like building is actually situated in a relatively ordinary part of the village, though on slightly elevated ground. The architecture is a blend of traditional stone masonry with some modern adaptations to accommodate its dual function. The lower floors serve as public spaces for council meetings and community events, while the upper levels are reserved for the private residence of Clan Ross.
Malaekos Ross is the current owner of Ross House and the leader of Tarvosa. He is a charismatic Tiefling who is known for his sharp mind and diplomatic prowess. Lord Malaekos inherited leadership from his mother, guiding Tarvosa with a firm yet fair hand. His leadership style is inclusive and forward-thinking, often incorporating modern ideas and practices that benefit the village’s economy and social structure. Lord Malaekos is deeply committed to the welfare of his people, striving to maintain Tarvosa’s prosperity and cultural heritage and is thus a figure that is deeply respected by the local folk.
Nathan Lozé, a centaur, serves as the secretary to Lord Malaekos. Nathan’s role is crucial in the smooth operation of Ross House and the efficient administration of village affairs. Nathan is known for his meticulous organization skills and his ability to manage the village’s busy schedule of events and meetings. He is a respected member of the community, valued not only for his professional abilities but also for his wise counsel and loyalty. Local rumours suggest that Nathan and Bénédicte Rousselle, the owner of the local tailor shop, have some kind of history but neither have ever confirmed it.
=== Ironclad Forge ===
Ironclad Forge is the principal blacksmith in Tarvosa, located in the pretty much dead centre of the village. The forge itself is a sturdy, stone-built structure with thick smoke billowing from its chimney. Ironclad Forge is renowned for producing a wide array of metal goods, from horseshoes and farming tools to custom-made swords and ornate iron gates. The sound of hammering metal is a constant backdrop in the nearby area, unsurprising given how important the blacksmith is to the village, but also having the unintended consequence of irritating the neighbours.
The owner and master blacksmith of Ironclad Forge is Eanruig MacClambroch, a robust and skilled artisan who has just turned 70. Known to be a bit of a grump, Eanruig has a commanding presence, with broad shoulders and arms strengthened by decades of forging. He inherited the business from his father when he was a just a young man and has since expanded its range and reputation, ensuring that Ironclad Forge remains a cornerstone of Tarvosa's craftmanship. Eanruig is also a strict Chrich traditionalist, valuing tradition and the 'old ways' above modern technological progress. For this reason, he also has a deep personal hatred of Chrichheim's current leader, Duke James Hamilton, as Eanruig believes the Duke has betrayed traditional Chrichheimer values.
=== Riverbank Leatherworks ===
Riverbank Leatherworks is a tannery, which ironically isn't actually built on or near the bank of the River Chrich - despite its name. The tannery occupies a robust building, with smokestacks and drying frames visible from a distance. Riverbank Leatherworks is respected for producing durable leather, utilised by local craftsmen and exported to nearby towns. They specialise in heavy leathers suitable for outdoor work and goods, catering to the needs of farmers and adventurers. They have a bit of a rivalry with the Tarvosa Tannery, who value traditional methods over Riverbank Leatherworks' more industrialised techniques.
The owner of Riverbend Leatherworks, Blake Barr, is a seasoned tanner in her mid twenties, known for her robust physique and no-nonsense approach to business. Blake took over the tannery from her family, being the third generation to run it, and has dedicated her life to maintaining the high standards set by her predecessors. She is highly knowledgeable about the tanning process and is continuously seeking ways to innovate and improve the efficiency of her operations. Blake is somewhat gruff in manner but respected for her fairness and deep commitment to her employees and the local community. Local rumours suggest that Bénédicte and Nathan Lozé, the secretary to Malaekos Ross, have some kind of history but neither have ever confirmed it.
=== Stitch & Seam Tailoring ===
Stitch & Seam is the local tailor shop. The shop is known for its meticulous attention to detail and the high quality of its craftsmanship. It occupies a quaint, well-kept building with a welcoming facade, where an elegant sign hangs, illustrating a needle and thread. Stitch & Seam offers custom tailoring services, creating everything from work attire to ceremonial garments. The shop also provides alterations and repairs, ensuring that every piece of clothing fits its owner perfectly and stands the test of time. They tend to work closely with The Looming Thread, which is located next-door.
The owner of Stitch & Seam, Bénédicte Rousselle, is a skilled tailor despite her young age, being only 18 years old. A newcomer, Bénédicte already has a reputation for her exceptional skill and creative flair, which she uses to help her clients look their best. She established the shop after arriving in Tarvosa from Roylandia - though she doesn't talk about her life there. Eleanor is known for her warm personality and the personal touch she brings to all her client interactions, making each visit to Stitch & Seam a pleasant and personalised experience.
=== The Looming Thread ===
The Looming Thread is the principal clothing shop in Tarvosa. This shop stands out with its tasteful décor and an array of vibrant textiles displayed in its windows. Specialising in primarily ready-to-wear garments, The Looming Thread offers a diverse range of clothing, from everyday wear to more elaborate outfits for special occasions. The store prides itself on using high-quality fabrics, many of which are locally sourced. The business works closely with Stitch & Seam Tailoring, which is next-door.
The owner of The Looming Thread, Mhambi, is a minotaur whose imposing presence is softened by his impeccable sense of style and deep, friendly voice. Mhambi has a keen eye for fashion and a remarkable talent for design, which he brings to the diverse inventory of his shop. Once a fierce Beast-Blood warrior, he moved to Tarvosa several years ago, seeking a peaceful life where he could indulge his passion for tailoring and fabric arts. Mhambi is well-liked in the community, known for his generous nature and the personal attention he gives to each customer. Despite his large, intimidating frame, he is a gentle and articulate individual, always ready to offer style advice or share a thoughtful conversation with visitors to his shop.
=== Stone Whispers ===
Stone Whispers is a renowned stone mason in Tarvosa. This studio specialises in the art of stone carving, producing everything from small, delicate figurines to large, imposing statues that adorn local businesses and public spaces. Attached to the studio is a statuary gallery, where finished works are displayed in almost a museum-like fashion, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of the sculptures in an ideal environment. The gallery showcases the artwork of the gallery's owner and is, despite it's cultural importance to the village, nothing more than a vanity project to the sculptor that created it.
The owner of Stone Whispers is David Roberts, an imperial in his early forties. David is an accomplished stone carver whose skill and artistic vision have been honed over many years of dedication to his craft. He founded the studio and gallery as a young man, driven both by his passion for sculping but also for desire to be seen by others. David is a bit of an egomaniac and created the statuary gallery purely as a means to show off his art. However, the people of Tarvosa generally overlook this egoism as, deep down, David is a genuinely good person who legitimately cares about his community - as long as he gets credit for the effort.
=== Tarvosa Stables and Wagon Station ===
Tarvosa’s local wagon station and stables are somewhat inconveniently located away from any of the village's main roads. Nevertheless, this essential business provides secure stabling for horses and storage for wagons, alongside maintenance and repair services for various types of wheeled transport. The main building is constructed from sturdy timber and an outdoor area for steeds as well as a workshop that ensures all vehicles are well-cared for. The station also acts as a hub for those looking to hire transport for goods or travel around the region.
The owner of the stables, Mr. Barnaby Fletcher, is a seasoned horseman and an expert wheelwright in his late thirties. Barnaby inherited the business from his father, who founded it, and has since dedicated himself to upholding its reputation for quality and reliability. Known for his stoic nature and sarcastic humour, Barnaby is a figure with a mixed reputation in Tarvosa. Nevertheless, his deep knowledge of horse care and wagon maintenance makes him an invaluable resource for the village, and his commitment to the business ensures that visitors are happy and well-assisted.
=== North Mor College ===
North Mor College is an esteemed educational institution located in the centre of Tarvosa. The college is housed in an ancient stone building that has been meticulously maintained and modernised over the years to provide a conducive learning environment. North Mor College offers a broad curriculum, focusing on both academic and practical skills, ranging from the arts and sciences to trade crafts such as carpentry and metalworking. The college is a beacon of knowledge and training in the local area as well as its neighbours, attracting students from all over the county eager to benefit from the Empire's Common Education Programme.
Sail Flick is a Kenku who teaches Common, languages, and communication at North Mor College. Despite the limitations of his species, such as their mimicry-based speech, Sail Flick has turned this into a unique teaching tool, captivating his students with a diverse array of voices and sounds that enrich their learning experience. His classes are highly interactive and engaging, using storytelling, sound games, and practical exercises to help students grasp complex linguistic concepts. Sail Flick is also known for his sharp wit and supportive nature, making him a favourite among his pupils and a respected colleague in the faculty.
The headmaster of North Mor College, Professor Wiltor Brightbulb, is an old Gnome with a vast intellect and infectious enthusiasm for education. Professor Brightbulb is a visionary leader, always looking for innovative ways to enhance the educational offerings and infrastructure of the college. Under his guidance, the college has expanded its reach and scope, incorporating advanced magical studies and experimental sciences into its curriculum just like the schools found in the cities. Despite his many responsibilities, he remains deeply involved in the daily activities of the college, often seen participating in classes and encouraging both students and teachers to pursue excellence in all their endeavours.
=== MacKinnon Supplies ===
MacKinnon Supplies is the primary general store in Tarvosa, conveniently located at the heart of the village near the bustling market square. This store serves as a vital resource for the residents, providing everything from daily groceries and household essentials to farming tools and local handicrafts. The façade of MacKinnon Supplies is painted in cheerful colours, making it a welcoming sight for locals and visitors alike. Its wide-ranging stock caters to the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that whether one needs a sack of flour or a new fishing net, MacKinnon Supplies is the place to go.
The owner of MacKinnon Supplies, Mrs. Alicia MacKinnon, is a warm-hearted imperial woman in her mid forties, well-known and much respected within the community for her kindness and dedication to customer service. Agatha took over the store from her parents, who established it, and has since been a maternal figure to many in the village. She has a reputation for going out of her way to assist her customers, whether that means placing special orders for hard-to-find items or extending credit during tough times. Her genuine care for the well-being of her neighbours have made her and her store indispensable to Tarvosa.
=== Dutchman & Dutchman Boat Insurance ===
Dutchman & Dutchman Boat Insurance operates from a modest office near Tarvosa’s market, providing insurance services to local boat owners. Despite the essential nature of their services, the company has a somewhat dubious reputation among the local populace. Known for their stringent claims process and high premiums, Dutchman & Dutchman often finds itself at odds with its clients. The fine print in their policies frequently contains obscure clauses that benefit the company at the expense of the insured, leading many to view the business with suspicion and resentment, particularly in a community that relies heavily on boating for livelihood and transport.
Dutchman & Dutchman is owned and operated by the Dutchman twins, both of whom are 64 year old imperials from Isernheim. George Dutchman, the first of the twins, is a sharp and calculating individual. His business tactics, often seen as aggressive and manipulative, have not endeared him to the local community. George is known for his keen ability to exploit legal loopholes to ensure the profitability of their enterprise. He handles the financial aspects of the business, and his approach is strictly business-oriented, driven by profit maximisation. George’s reputation for being cold and distant further alienates him from the villagers, who view his practices as contrary to the communal spirit of Tarvosa.
Harold Dutchman, the other half of the Dutchman twins, manages the client relations and marketing side of Dutchman & Dutchman. Similar to his brother, Harold is driven by self-interest, but he is more outwardly charming and persuasive, often using his charisma to mask the less favourable aspects of their business dealings. Despite his sociable facade, Gerald's primary focus remains on expanding the company's reach and profitability, sometimes at the expense of ethical considerations. His ability to smooth over disputes with a smile and a handshake does little to mitigate the underlying mistrust the community feels towards him and his brother’s business practices.
=== Glimmering Trove Treasures & Curiosities ===
Glimmering Trove Curiosities is Tarvosa's local curiosity shop, nestled on a narrow lane in the centre of the village. The shop is housed in a small, aged building with a façade that whimsically hints at the treasures hidden within. Its windows are cluttered with an assortment of objects ranging from ancient coins and delicate glass bottles to bizarre artefacts and dusty old books. The shop specialises in the odd and the unusual, drawing in collectors, scholars, and those simply curious. Inside, every nook and cranny is filled with items, though most are likely to be uninteresting at best.
The owner of Glimmering Trove, Fletcher MacMiller, is a 35 year old imperial with a keen eye for the unique and the esoteric. Fletcher, once a traveller and adventurer, settled in Tarvosa after his wanderlust was sated by years of journeying to far-off lands. His experiences have given him an uncanny ability to discern the rare from the mundane, and his shop is a reflection of his life's passion for collecting. Fletcher is known for his storytelling prowess, often regaling his customers with tales about his travels or the origins of his wares.
=== Doctor's Clinic ===
The doctor’s clinic in Tarvosa is housed in a small, neatly-kept stone building, somewhat near the centre of the village. It features a clean, well-organised interior with a waiting room that has wooden benches and a few potted plants to provide a sense of calm to visitors. The clinic is equipped with the basic necessities for treating common ailments and injuries, with a small dispensary stocked with herbal remedies and basic medicines. A back room serves as a private area for consultations and more serious treatments.
Dr. Elizabeth Shields is the local doctor and healer in Tarvosa, an imperial woman in her late fifties. Trained in traditional and herbal medicine, Dr. Rowan is adept at treating a wide range of physical conditions as well as providing guidance on mental and emotional well-being. She moved to Tarvosa several years ago after practising in Dunedyn for several years, drawn to the village by the slower pace of village life. Dr. Shields is deeply committed to her patients, often visiting those who are too ill to come to the clinic, and is respected throughout Tarvosa for her dedication and compassion.
=== The Drunken Siren ===
The Drunken Siren is a local pub and, unsurprisingly, is a popular spot for both locals and visiting traders. The building is a charming, timber-framed structure with a thatched roof and a sign depicting a muscled mermaid holding a mug of ale. Inside, the pub is warm and welcoming, with a large fireplace that crackles merrily on colder evenings and rough-hewn wooden tables that bear the marks of many spirited games of cards. The pub is renowned for its selection of local ales and spirits.
The bartender of The Drunken Siren is Burt 'Speedy' Godfrey. He is known for his quick wit and even quicker service. In her late-forties, Burt has a knack for remembering faces and orders, making everyone from local fishermen to weary travellers feel like regulars. His energetic and friendly manner keeps the atmosphere light and lively, and he is often at the centre of the pub’s nightly revelries. However, there is a persistent rumour among the locals that Burt has a hidden past. Some believe that he was once a pirate or outlaw, but most choose to ignore in favour of the jolly bartender they are presented with.
The cook and owner of The Drunken Siren, Florens Webbink, is a burly man in his late 50s with a passion for good food and hearty hospitality. Florens, originally from Zeeheim, took over the pub ten years ago and transformed it into the heart of Tarvosa’s social life. He prides himself on the pub’s menu, which features robust dishes made from local ingredients, such as venison pies and freshly caught fish, stews that simmer all day, and his famous apple crumble. Florens' jovial nature makes him well-loved in the community, and his commitment to using local produce supports other local enterprises.
=== Market ===
The market in Tarvosa is a vibrant and bustling centre of trade, held every week on Thursday in the small square created specifically for it. Stalls made from a mixture of wood and canvas display a rich array of goods ranging from local produce, such as fresh vegetables and fruits from nearby farms, to handmade crafts like woven linens and leather goods from the tannery. The market also attracts traders and merchants from surrounding settlements, making it a lively hub for exchanging not just products but also news and gossip. Special market days are held seasonally, offering everything from local honey and preserves to imported spices and textiles.
=== Tarvosa Tannery ===
Situated on the eastern outskirts of Tarvosa, near the doll shop, is the Tarvosa Tannery. The tannery is housed in a sturdy, stone-built structure, covered with moss. It utilises the clean waters of the river to process and treat various types of hides and skins brought in by local hunters and farmers. The tannery is known for producing high-quality leather, which is then used by artisans throughout the village to create goods ranging from sturdy footwear to durable bookbindings. The tannery also occasionally creates unpleasant odours that are characteristic of leather processing. Tarvosa Tannery has a bit of a rivalry with Riverbank Leatherworks, who value industrialised methods over Tarvosa Tannery's traditional techniques.
The owner of the Tarvosa Tannery is Moibeal MacRaoiridh, a young imperial at only 20 years old. Moibeal inherited the tannery from her father and has been involved in the family business since she was a child, learning the trade through years of hands-on experience. Despite being young, her deep knowledge of traditional tanning methods has allowed the tannery to thrive without compromising the quality of its leather. However she is known to be incredibly cautious of new techniques and technologies, preferring what she sees as the "tried and true" ways of her ancestors.
=== Tarvosa Doll Shop ===
Tucked away on a quaint cobbled street on the village outskirts, the Tarvosa Doll Shop is a beloved fixture in the village. The shop features a charming, ivy-covered façade with a small, inviting window display that showcases a variety of exquisite handmade dolls. Inside, the walls are lined with shelves filled with dolls of all sizes and styles, from traditional porcelain to whimsical cloth creations. The back of the shop houses a workshop where the dolls are crafted, often bespoke, capturing the imagination of both local children and visiting collectors. It’s particularly famous for a series of dolls that resemble folklore characters, each intricately designed.
Charles O'Neill, a middle-aged half- high elf is the current owner of the Tarvosa Doll Shop. He a gentle disposition and an eye for detail that makes him an exceptional doll maker. Charles inherited the shop from his mother, a talented seamstress, and has since dedicated his life to enhancing and expanding the business. Despite his somewhat reserved nature, he is well-regarded in the community for his kindness and for hosting doll-making workshops for the village’s children. Despite mangling his left hand a few years ago, in an industrial accident, his talents in doll-making are still as clear as day.
=== The Rising Tide Inn ===
The Rising Tide is an inn and pub located on Stickleback Square, in the south-west of the village. Unlike the square that now surrounds it, The Rising Tide has been a part of Tarvosa for generations and is one of the communities main social hubs. Many of the locals flock to the inn for food, drinks, and music but The Rising Tide also offers comfortable rooms for passing travellers and visiting outsiders.
The current owner of The Rising Tide is Felix Shaw, a 23 year old imperial. His family has owned the inn for hundreds of years, something he takes great pride in, but he himself came into ownership of the inn after his parents were killed in an unfortunate boating accident. Nevertheless, he has incredible business sense for his age and is loved by the village for his friendly and welcoming attitude. Felix enjoys sharing a drink and participating in the occasional card or dice game with his patrons.
As well as Felix, another notable member of The Rising Tide's staff is Epeigeus. Epeigeus is a high elf and serves as the inn's main chef. A friend of Felix Shaw's father, he acts as both a close friend and a sort-of uncle figure to the orphaned owner of his workplace. Interestingly, much of Epeigeus' past remains a mystery to even his closest confidants. Some say that he served briefly as an agent and spy for the Elven Dragon Dominion, but this has never been proven and Epeigeus laughs off any who questions him about it.
=== Stickleback Square ===
Stickleback Square is the name given to a fairly recent addition to the village. Only built about 60 years ago, the square derives it's name from the pond that used to exist there and the good number of stickleback fish that could be found there. In modernity, the square is (appropriately) the location for many of Tarvosa's larger fisheries and ferry services.
One such business owner, and one of the more notable ones, is Amelie Welsh - a 41 year old imperial. Though Amelie operates a fishing business like many of her neighbours, it is her ferrying service that provides her with the majority of her income. Amelie has been sailing boats for as long as she can remember, and knows Loch Mor like the back of her hand. All of this time on the water, however, has had the side effect of making Amelie smell slightly like seaweed at all hours of the day.
=== Police Station ===
Like most Imperial settlements, Tarvosa benefits from the presence of a dedicated police force. These men and women dedicate their lives to protecting and serving the community (at least on paper) and are tasked with maintaining order, tackling crime, and generally maintaining order. The police headquarters in Tarvosa is a standard building for a settlement of this size. It sports offices, an armoury, a small jail, and other law-enforcement necessities.
The current captain of the Imperial Police Force in Tarvosa is Albert Morgan, a 42 year old imperial. Captain Morgan has been in his position for years and is known to reliably and loyaly serve his community. However, he is also known as being a bit brutish and quick to resort to violence - when dealing with criminals. He is also a heavy drinker and high functional alcoholic. A popular in-joke for citizens of the village is how, one day, Captain Morgan will name a rum (his favourite drink) after himself.
=== Tarvosa Adventurers' Guild ===
Being a village on the larger side, it was decided by the Adventurers' Guild that establishing a proper guild building was justifiable. This stands in stark contrast to how the guild normally operates, merely renting out an office or a room in smaller settlements. Regardless, the guild's headquarters in Tarvosa is a fairly simple building. It contains a bar area and reception, an office for the guild's head representative, and several rooms that travelling adventurers can stay in.
The Adventurers' Guild's head representative in Tarvosa is a wood elf named Niabi. She is on the younger side for her people but is significantly more experienced than any of the other adventurers in the area, which made her a logical choice for the position. Niabi herself is considered a true savant of the adventuring life and takes her job seriously. However, she doesn't actually care much for Tarvosa and the Empire as a whole, for she originally comes from Danu Celta and is merely gaining more experience before returning to her homeland.
=== Turning the Page ===
Turning the Page is a bookshop found in the south of Tarvosa, near the beach. Unlike a majority of Tarvosa's shops, who have existed for generations and passed down from parent to child, Turning the Page is a fairly recent addition to the village. It offers a variety of books and other texts in a variety of subjects and topics: from farming techniques, to fictional folklore stories, to Imperial history, to even Elvish language colloquialisms.
The bookshop's founder and owner is Fernando Toledo, a 70 year old imperial. Like his shop, Fernando is a newcomer to Tarvosa. As far as the village knows, he is a traveller from Oroheim, that amassed a collection of books during his travels and has retired to Tarvosa to sell them. In reality, Fernando is an exiled minor nobleman who fled to the village after being accused of financial malpractice. The books he set up his shop with are the remnants of Fernando's collection, books he is now forced to sell to survive.
== Trivia ==
* Tarvosa is inspired by the town of Thurso.