High in the hills of Velgacia sits the village
of Courtelle, a small sea-port town set just off
the ocean. Several docks line the beach, ships of
every size, shape, and origin spending their nights
there as the seamen that occupy the village's small
houses count their days' catches and relate stories of
exciting at-sea storms.
Toward the horizon is the island of Grenon, Courtelle's
The market itself bustles with life at all hours of the
The large two-story tavern, The Rusty Anchor, sits amidst all
This is where most of the action takes place, patrons gathering here
sister port. Further along, past the castle, lies the
misty shores of the other islands that make up this
water-filled world. The village itself spans the length
of a few miles, five streets running parallel to the
ocean with the market square in the middle, and three
running adjacent. Small houses owned by the various
sailors that deal there dot the streets, some even
branching out into the nearby hills for use by those
that enjoy a little more space between them and their neighbors.
Seaport at night as you look out from the docks.
day, traders dealing in various types of fish and other
meats, and items grown in their small gardens. Other come
from nearby towns to trade their wares in the several small
stands set up for the use of passers-by. Several more-permanent
shops line the market, and the nearest street to either side.
In these places are sold weapons, armor, clothing, jewelry,
and anything else the shopkeeps wish to add to their display
windows at the front of their stores. As with everything else,
their prices are negotiable, and quite fair.An inn lies down
the street from the market main, a sign posted outside at all
times proclaiming several rooms to rent. Its proprietor, Daunna,
can usually be found in her office just to one side of the rooms,
or in the tavern in the other direction across the market.
the to-do, the glow of the fire in the hearth inside spilling
out into the cobblestone street. Several chairs and tables line
the front wall for those that want to drink under the stars, several
more of each occupying the main room. Tapestries of brilliant color
line the walls inside, and the wooden floor is mostly hidden by a
threadbare carpet, its thickness diminished by the tread of countless
patrons. There is a large balcony that runs the length of one wall,
with stairs leading up to it from just to the right of the bar. The
rest of the second story is the quarters of Bhavya; who runs the place
along with her partner, Syreana; the tavern's owner, and is guarded
strictly as being off limits to the general public.
after work, and between trips to sea. Travellers frequent it as well,
usually to have an ale or a glass of wine before continuing on their way.
All in all, the visitors and the regulars pose no threat to those willing
to share drinks, and stories of their journeys and adventures. The general
public must beware, though. This village is a peaceful place, as is the
surrounding lands, but the minions of evil hold their meetings and keep
their watch from the shadows surrounding the warmth of the fire. Keep this
in mind, tavern-goers. Enjoy yourselves, but keep one eye trained to the
darkness just over your shoulder.
