Hatchet

The Crimson Tide

Rising from the storm-lashed coast as iron and timber bound together by faith, Hatchet stands as the youngest—yet most ferocious—settlement of the Three Castles Confederation. While Portjaw governs and Jawguard defends, Hatchet exists for a singular purpose: war.

Founded in 239 AC by followers of Tempus, the Lord of Battles, the city was raised in protest against the perceived hesitation of Portjaw. Decades later, that decision proved its worth, cementing Hatchet’s belief that readiness, not restraint, preserves civilization.

In 299 AC, when disaster struck Shadowstar and cities fell into chaos, refugees fled to Castle Hatchet, its gates opening to those strong enough to reach them.

Since then, The Crimson Tide has remained vigilant, its walls never silent, its warriors never untested.

🛡️ A City Forged for Battle

Hatchet’s walls are scarred by salt, storm, and repeated conflict. Massive docks beneath the castle host warships engineered for rapid repair and fast retaliation.

Though small in number, Hatchet is never underestimated; the city is home to a population of roughly one thousand souls. Three hundred war chiefs, priests, and elite warriors reside within the castle walls, while the remaining seven hundred inhabit the surrounding town as shipwrights, fishers, armorers, and their families.

👑 Leadership of Steel and Faith

In Hatchet, authority is not inherited—it is earned and proven through victory.

The city is ruled by Gunther, a cleric of Tempus who serves as both political leader and spiritual guide. At his side stands Vartarall, advisor and battle-priest responsible for training the next generation of warriors. Under them, governance and religion are inseparable; every oath sworn is sacred.

🔥 The Tempus Berserkers

No name inspires greater fear than the Tempus Berserkers. Led by Olaf, they serve as the city's spearpoint.

These shock troops surge forward where disciplined armies break—relentless, furious, and unstoppable.

They are deployed sparingly—but when they march, wars end quickly.

🌊 Hatchet’s Fleet

Hatchet’s strength is not confined to land. Its docks support a battle-ready fleet, patrolling the coast and projecting force far beyond its walls. Passenger and military vessels alike connect Hatchet to the wider island.

🍺 The Howling Hound

All paths in the city eventually lead to the Howling Hound Inn. Owned by Gunnar Harkun and staffed by veterans, it is a place where warriors celebrate victories loudly and information travels as fast as the ale flows.

⚔️ Spirit of Hatchet

Hatchet does not dream of peace. It prepares for what comes after peace fails. Where others debate, Hatchet sharpens its blades. Where others remember the past, Hatchet prepares for the next battle.