Arcaln

From Almeopedia

Arcaln [ˈar kaln] is a massive fortress on Arin island, and a kešana (borough) of Verduria city.

It was built by the Caďinorian emperor Ervëa over a period of twenty years, starting in 1620, part of a chain of forts built across Eretald. The fort and its environs were governed by a military commander (calenorion) appointed from Ctesifon; throughout the classical period it was administratively separate from Verduria city. (The wizard Uhnonca managed to take control of both, in 2198-2201.)

During the early Dark Years the emperors made Verduria their winter capital. When the Bešbalicu conquered Ctesifon itself in 2435, the emperor fled north. The calenorion Velto Cänen helped push the barbarians out of Ctesifon (2472), and in gratitude the emperor gave him the rule of Verduria city as well. Since then the rulers of Verduria have also been masters of Arcaln.

The rebellion of Tomao Ihtüec against the wizard-king Utu-On was facilitated by Anglavo, belgosanno of Arcaln (3241).

The castle has never been taken by direct physical assault (Uhnonca used magic). The Kebreni tried to take it during the first Verduria-Kebreni war, but failed; they did cut off access to the mainland by burning the Arcaln Bridge. An underground passageway gives access to the river, so that the castle never lacks fresh water.

The fortress has been modified many times. Three styles are visible in the illustration: the outer walls are the strong primitive style of Ervëa's original chain of castles; the central palace was built in Prežeon times, following classical models; a pavilion in modern style was built on the south wall during Onvaďra 2ë's time. Other portions of the castle are similarly eclectic.

The area just outside the walls has been a residential area since classical times. The southern and eastern areas are similar to the rich Nezi neighborhood to the south. The area to the west, clinging to steep granite hills, remains a poor area, inhabited by workers attached to the castle, from cooks to gardeners to prostitutes.

The castle has its own docks, but the Verdurian Navy is based in Ažimba.