Riverbend - Capital of New Hinterland

For a capital city, Riverbend isn’t nearly as metropolitan as one would expect. It’s far more rugged and unpolished, reflecting the cues of its adventurous, pioneering people. The city is on the smaller side, especially considering it was the first settlement to establish itself after the Scouring. Rather than evolving as many municipalities do, Riverbend has remained true to its roots as a frontier outpost, supplying travelers on their way to ‘somewhere else.’ 

Situated between several trade routes and waterways, Riverbend is a strategic location for not only New Hinterland, but for the entire Four Corners of Katharsis. In light of its political and economic importance to the world at large, it was decided that the metropolis would not be ruled by a king nor by a party, but rather by a High Council representing the Four Pillars of Nature, Sovereignty, Science and Magic. Comprised of intelligent Flora and Fauna, Free Folk, Architects, and (reluctantly)Dark Mages, the High Council is responsible for the edicts that govern the land, however, despite its best efforts to maintain order, pockets of independence and outlaws can still be found. The High Council doesn’t have a permanent residence or chamber hall, instead choosing to meet at various establishments throughout the city as needed.

Central to the town is The Citadel, a rough series of defenses dating back to the early settlement days. The fortification is sparsely occupied by a handful of guards, but can become a substantial bulwark should the precinct ever come under siege. The city has no standing army. It is generally assumed that nearly every Riverbender is well armed and well-versed in physical confrontation should the need arise requiring everyone to pull together to defend against a common threat. These are pioneers after all.

As with any village of its size and history, all manner of goods can be found from a host of mercantiles. The most famous, of course, being the Three Brothers Gnome Curiosity Shoppe and Provisionary conveniently and conspicuously located in the center of town. Riverbend Library boasts the largest cartography collection in all of Katharsis, featuring maps that many don’t even know exist - and some that shouldn’t.

At the north end of the city is the Tent District, comprised of bivouacs, tin shacks, and other temporary dwellings. This is definitely the rougher side of town, occupied by scrappy adventurers and those who simply want to stock up and pass through unnoticed. If you’re looking for a thief or brigand to join your Party, the Tent District has the best (or worst) selection.

Iron and other industrial minerals were once mined in Riverbend, but those days are long gone. The old mines have all been depleted, abandoned, and sealed up. Rumors surface from time to time regarding portals and hidden treasure, but most dismiss them as simply that – rumors. The facts are that the mines are dangerously unstable, full of vile creatures, and are best avoided.

In summary, Riverbend is a bit of a time capsule, preserving a glimpse of life as it was shortly after the Scouring. Survival was uncertain, suspicions were high, and self-sufficiency was a must. Fiercely independent pioneers suffered to pave the way for future settlers. Few frontiers are left in New Hinterland, but those who dare to brave them are typically found in Riverbend.