The Free City of Catarum

General Description:
Sitting atop sheer cliffs just above the foothills of Mount Chemaros, the free city of
Catarum has enjoyed a long and relatively peaceful history thanks to the natural
defenses of the surrounding landscape. The rush of water can be heard throughout the
city as numerous waterways flow through and around the the city, including Petros
Keep itself, on their way to the falls for which the city is named. The main road leading
to the city crosses the Oura River, which flows around the mountain and into the nearby
lake. The waterfalls for which the city is named also provide its bounty as a special
algae grows behind the falls and the rocks below. This substance has peculiar
properties that make it extremely useful for magical concoctions. In particular its
regenerative capabilities make healing potions brewed with it more potent creating
strong demand for it. Gathering the algae however is difficult and dangerous work,
making it a well paying endeavor and a high priced commodity for the city.

Recent News:
Lord Ikos Petros has been missing for a couple of weeks now and his son Palmys
Petros has since been declared Regent.

Significant Features:
Beneath the falls lie a network of permanent scaffolding, pulleys, and dangling
harnesses used to collect the algae. The lakeside wall of the city also features a long
winding stone ramp continuing which connects the main road up to the city proper.
There is a large dockyard on the surface of the lake connecting to the base of the ramp.
Skydocks are also built into the ramp works on the lakeside as it winds higher providing
accommodation for visiting airships.

Vital Information:
● Population: About 10,000
● Races: Predominantly a human city but there are significant dwarven and
gnomish communities. Others races can also be found but are less represented.
● Governance: Ruled by the Petros family for six generations. Was officially a Self-
Governing Territory (SGT) of the Imperial Republic after its subjugation over 60
years ago. Lord Ikos Petros declared its independence 2 years ago.
● Economy: Primarily a trade city with the algae being its primary export. Several
prominent Artisan Guilds such as blacksmiths, chefs, leatherworkers, masons,
and tailors operate within the city further spurring economic trade. The city also
has a strong fishing trade provided by nearby river and lake.
● Foreign Relations:
○ Long trade history with the Dwarven stronghold of Hammersong to the
east.
 ○ Kingdom of Tor - Some historical conflicts but common resentment of
Imperial expansion and recent trade has improved the relationship.
○ Limited contacts with the elves of Deeprun Forest.
○ Stands in defiance of The Decree and considered in open rebellion by
Imperial forces in the region.
● Prominent Organizations:
○ The Order of the New Dawn operates a large temple within the city.
○ Several large Artisan Guilds.
○ The Free Trade Union has a large chapter in the city.
○ Local mages guild operates all magical businesses and a school for the
gifted.
○ Large Temples devto Castus and Nomarum. Smaller temples dedicated to
the other gods throughout the city.