Blackwinter
| settlement name | duchy | district/province | type | population | founding year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackwinter § | Daern | Royal District of Parnogrust | village | 2,300 | 4613 |
Blackwinter lies on the plains of central Daern, where the Royal Road and the Ashenbeck River cross. It is in the Royal District of Parnogrust, on the border with the Second Province of D’Aad.
When travelling from Barban to Daern, Blackwinter is the first settlement encountered along the Royal Road. A magnificent High Temple of D’Aad greets the weary traveller and acts as a navigational beacon, visible from many miles out.
The Ashenbeck flows through Blackwinter, down through the fertile Black Valley, to Linwall on the coast. The river is a well-used transport network between the two settlements.
The village council is led by mayor Abelus Iles, assisted by First Councillor Aeliya Bailey. Mayor Iles coordinates the agricultural activities while councillor Bailey is responsible for civic duties including those related to the many inns, stables and wainwrights.
High-quality clay is extracted along the south reaches of the River Shrew. This is used to produce a range of ceramics and pottery goods, particularly oil lamps. Vegetable oil is produced from crops grown in the vicinity and is exported as lamp oil. Astinus Richett is a wealthy and well-known breeder of fine horses, in the nearby Black Valley.
The High Temple of D’Aad is the focal point of the village and is overseen by the Arch Priest Leah Roasterman. The temple is part of a large complex of buildings which houses several other groups and individuals.
The most prominent citizen is Arch Priest Alfan Raynerus, a peer of the realm and the Administrator of the Second Province of D'Aad. Lord Raynerus has a large staff to assist him in the running of the province.
On the temple premises is a military compound; Colonel Commandant Aarus Berry is the senior officer in charge. The permanent troops stationed here are managed by Captain Clayre Ware.
Although not a member of the military, the cavalier Sword and Shield Master Aelijah Kettleblack also resides in the compound. He is a member of the Servants of the Scarlet Word and runs a small unit of the Servants here. Their distinctive bright orange cloaks are a prominent sight around the village.