Frosthaven is currently ruled by the Frost family. In the past, other noble families have ruled over Frosthaven, it is a much sought after location to rule. The epicenter of trade for the interior lands, especially trade from Funta. It is second only to the Crown, but much less worldly in inhabitants. As most commoners who visit Frosthaven, it is called the true Irna capitol as the people mirror Irna as a whole.
The city is walled and many millennia ago (~2500ME), the eastern side was attacked by a dragon. Since then, the damaged areas have been rebuilt. The people come from all over Irna and there are a few foreigners here as well. The city is largely orderly, while there is a criminal enterprise, it isn't significant or, at least, not a major concern of the city guard. There are several major established religious sites here including Zopha, Pollaran, Caminus, and Echo. The surrounding farm to forest lands are largely peaceful with an occasional goblin or orc tribe moving in on the outskirts of the city. With plenty of adventurers in the city, the raiding parties from these tribes find that having an entire camp destroyed isn't worth the few cows they'd plunder.
The wharf has several dock sections, one for the cargo ships and passenger ships, one for the yachts of the rich and one for the military vessels. Frosthaven has become the central place for the Irna navy. Most of the navy is out patrolling for pirates and for incursions from other lands, but the headquarters are here. The last part of the docks includes the shipyards which produce all the navy ships plus a few commercial ships as well.
One more notable fact about Frosthaven is it has a regional court. Most cities and towns manage their own legal courts, Frosthaven is one of the first cities to have a court that is above the courts in the surrounding towns and cities. It gives the people a way to appeal the decision of the courts or nobles to a higher court which will rule on the matter and Frosthaven enforces that ruling.
Frosthaven has three guard levels. The Castle Guard, they wear red cloaks and patrol the castle, the naval shipyard, and the new portal gate. The Red Cloaks, as they're referred to, are the highest trained guards with the most experience in dealing with problems. They're often called out when the regular guards are overwhelmed or when there is a large disturbance. Also, when adventurers who believe they're above the law break the laws, the Red Cloaks come out and put them in their place.
The Blue Cloaks are the regular city guard, and they patrol the city to keep the peace. They have a heavy presence next to the docks and the trade area as that's where most of the visitors, especially sailors, come into Frosthaven. When dealing with larger disturbances, they'll call in more guards and if overwhelmed, will call in the Red Cloaks. Most of the guard is honest and hard working. There are always a few guards who are willing to accept bribes or look the other way.
Finally, the Grey Cloaks. These guards are stationed at the gates and monitor the walls. It is the place where all new guards are assigned and where the guard ready to leave the Red or Blue Cloaks retire to, for the most part, this is a symbolic station. The gate guards deal with questioning visitors and taxing them, commoner, noble and adventurer. They can turn away people who obviously are looking to cause problems, but otherwise, all are welcome. The wall guards haven't been called into service in over 100 years, but because of tradition and the past, they remain.
These are the noble houses that have a presence in Frosthaven and are significant in the operation of Frosthaven. There are a few minor nobles who are really glorified merchants who no longer have estates to gain taxes from.
Family Name | Trade | Notes |
---|---|---|
House Frost | Farming | Founding Family |
House Kronsta | Shipping | Delivery anywhere |
House Groff | Shipwright | Admiral in Navy |
House Sethan | Orchards | Half-elf |
House Junah | Bakers | Owns baker's guild |
Clan Fullik | Stoneworker | Dwarven master workers |
Baroth Tribe | Farming | Animal husbandry |
House Walram | Hunters | Dragonborn |
This house is focused on shipping, either via caravan or, mostly, by shipping on seaborne vessels. They are starting to ship via flying ships, but that is extremely expensive and are for the most urgent, usually government, packages. This family rose to prominence as Irna becomes more and more settled and less wild wilderness. They started with a single coach between Frosthaven and The Crown and have, in the past few centuries grown to a worldwide business.
The Groff family has long been in the shipwright business making plenty of the ships on the seas today. They pride themselves in making solid, fast, and capable ships. They make ships for general commercial and naval purposes. They'd tried to do yachts; however, it didn't prove profitable with their business model. As the first wars broke out, House Groff provided the fleets to The Crown and offered them barely over material costs. The emperor granted them the writ of nobility for their sacrifice for the war effort. Many of the family serve as officers in the Irna navy and the current leader of the family is a retired admiral.
The Sethan is exclusively half elven. The house is unusual as it adopts half elvens into the fold, especially those with no real families or if the elven parent rejects the child after their human side has passed. They're almost as old as House Irna being recongized as a noble family from the earliest days. The house is content to manage the nation’s main orchards for a variety of fruits. They do their best to stay out of most politics and just manage their crops. They do have a good relationship with House Kronsta whom they ship all their products through.
The Junah family updated it's crest when it merged with the Fallop house, which was an older noble house. Fallop house was down to a single lady left who had great wealth and didn't want her family's memory to be forgotten. She searched for a noble family to merge with and found the Junah house willing to do so. Her family's crest had a lion on the blue background. When merged with the Junah family, her crest became the top left corner. She turned over her lands and wealth to the house and bore several heirs for the family.
The family is famous for its master chefs in baking. From everything to breads to desserts, the recipes are family secrets. They've expanded to all of Irna's lower cities, shipping their dough across the land for baking locally. Frosthaven is their test bed for all new creations, much to the joy of the citizens.
Clan Fullif, a dwarven clan, are the premier stoneworkers in all of Dort. This family exemplifies everything about dwarven stereotypes, stoic workers, hardy drinkers, perfectionists with stone, fiercely loyal and little tolerance for frivolous endeavors. As one of the few dwarven noble families, much of the family marries heroic dwarven maidens of note from pillars of the dwarven community. Making it one of the healthiest stocks of nobility.
Most tribes reside in the northern portion of Irna. The Baroth tribe migrated to lower Irna following their herds and eventually settled in the southern portion of Irna. As Frosthaven became more and more a center of business, the tribe spent more and more time there until they realized being in the, then, town would be better than losing animals in the commute. As Irna law, all tribal leaders are counted as noble without needing the normal paper work. The tribal elders affirm the leaders and that's sufficient. Baroth is a hybrid of both tribal and traditional nobility as the cheif is from the Baroth family and his ancestors continue the line.
One of the only dragonborn noble houses in the world, a young house that earned its right to be called noble from the actions of a wealthy dragonborn family just over a millenium ago. Like House Sethan, House Walram adopts dragonborn into its family from time to time to strengthen and increase the house itself. The house is famous for hunting, from animals to fugatives. They can track and trace any being and return with it alive, if needed.
Lord Cedric Ravenswood, known for his expertise in horse training, is the head of the noble family. The Ravenswood country estate boasts vast lands where they breed and train exceptional horses renowned for their speed, strength, and grace. They have stables in Frosthaven where they sell their steeds. For generations, the Ravenswood family has been sought after by royalty and aristocracy for their exceptional equestrian skills, and they take great pride in their equestrian heritage. Their loyalty to the crown and their dedication to the art of horsemanship have earned them respect and admiration throughout the realm. House Ravenswood operates the Burning Horse Stables in Frosthaven.
The Rusty Anchor
The Weary Traveler
The Silver Chalice
The Frosted Hearth
The Golden Goblet
The Crystal Chandelier
Name: Elara Swiftwind
Name: Balin Stonecrusher
Lord Thorgeir, a high-ranking member of Irna's noble class, is a formidable figure in Frosthaven's economic landscape. He is a tall and robust human, known for his keen interest in livestock trade, though his responsibilities limit his direct involvement in the business. Thorgeir's piercing blue eyes reflect his astute business acumen.
Frostbound Stables is nestled on the edge of Frosthaven, encompassing a large, snow-dusted field surrounded by a series of well-constructed stables and barns. Here, animals from horses to mules, and other beasts of burden find their shelter. The stables are sturdy, warm, and designed to protect the animals from Frosthaven's harsh weather.
The stable specializes in the sale, care, and training of various beasts of burden, primarily horses and mules, but also includes other hardy animals.
Frostbound Stables is renowned for its Frost-Mares, horses bred specifically for endurance and resilience in the harsh Irna northern land weather. They also boast a range of imported animals, carefully acclimatized under the watchful eyes of the stable's experienced handlers.
"Bumblefoot’s Bouquets Perfume shop" is a quaint little shop located in a quieter part of Frosthaven. The shop is filled with a myriad of scents from the various perfumes Jon creates. The interior is tastefully decorated with shelves of beautifully designed perfume bottles, and a small workstation where Jon crafts his perfumes. Jon himself is a gnome with a warm smile, twinkling eyes, and a well-groomed mustache. He dresses in colorful waistcoats and always has a flower in his lapel. He speaks with a charming southern drawl that puts customers at ease.
Products: The shop offers a wide range of perfumes, each crafted with a unique blend of scents. Prices range from 5 silver pieces for a small vial of perfume to 50 gold pieces for a large, intricately designed bottle of their finest scents.
The shop offers a wide range of perfumes, each crafted with a unique blend of scents. Prices range from 5 silver pieces for a small vial of perfume to 50 gold pieces for a large, intricately designed bottle of their finest scents.
The Gilded Gnome is a charming establishment by the South Gate of Frosthaven. The exterior is a whimsical blend of gnome architecture and natural elements, with a roof that looks like a mushroom cap and walls that seem to be made from intertwined tree trunks. A signboard with a grinning gnome, holding a mug of frothy ale, swings gently above the entrance.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ceiling is low, as is typical in gnome establishments, adorned with hanging lanterns that cast a soft, golden glow. The walls are lined with shelves holding an array of colorful bottles, and the air is filled with the comforting scent of hearty food and spiced ale.
The bar itself is a long, polished counter, behind which stands an impressive array of kegs and casks. There are several small tables scattered around the room, each one just the right size for a group of gnomes. The chairs are comfortable, and the tables are always kept clean.
In one corner of the bar, there's a small stage for live performances. Local musicians often come to play, filling the bar with lively music and laughter. On quieter nights, Fizzwick might share a tale or two from his adventuring days.
At the back of the bar, there's a door leading to the kitchen, from which delicious smells constantly waft. There's also a staircase leading to a few rooms that Fizzwick rents out to travelers.
Despite its small size, The Gilded Gnome is always bustling with activity. It's a place where everyone knows your name, and you're always greeted with a smile. Whether you're a local looking for a place to unwind after a long day or a traveler seeking a warm meal and good company, The Gilded Gnome is the place to be.
Fizzwick is a jovial gnome with a bushy white beard that sparkles with tiny, embedded gems. He's a former adventurer who decided to settle down and open a bar after years of traveling. He's known for his infectious laughter, his knack for telling tall tales, and his ability to mix a mean cocktail.
Starshimmer Gems is a high-end jewelry store located in the noble marketplace of Frosthaven. The exterior of the shop is unassuming, but the interior is a different story. The walls are lined with glass display cases filled with glittering jewels and intricate pieces of jewelry. The lighting is soft, making the gems sparkle and the gold shimmer. There is a quiet elegance to the place that speaks of wealth and refinement. At the back of the shop, there is a workshop where Eldrin and his craftsmen work on their creations.
Echon's Elegance is a high-end boutique located in the heart of Frosthaven's noble marketplace. The shop is known for its exquisite selection of luxurious fabrics and custom-tailored garments. The interior of the shop is as elegant as its offerings, with polished wooden floors, high ceilings, and tastefully arranged displays of the latest fashions. A private fitting area ensures that clients can try on garments in comfort and privacy.
The Lorekeeper's Trove is a grand two-story building, with a façade of polished stone and large, arched windows. The interior is a maze of towering bookshelves, filled with books, scrolls, and maps from all corners of Irna. The air is filled with the scent of parchment and old ink, and the quiet is only broken by the occasional rustle of turning pages. The shop has a few cozy reading nooks for customers who wish to peruse the books before purchasing.
The Majestic Canvas is a grand establishment located in the heart of the noble district. The exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf accents, while the interior is a vast, open space filled with natural light. The walls are adorned with a variety of artworks, from grand oil paintings to delicate watercolors, all displayed in ornate frames. Elandra, the owner, is a tall, elegant high elf with silver hair and bright blue eyes. She dresses in flowing gowns of the finest silk and has a soft, soothing voice. She is well-respected in the art community and is known for her discerning eye and impeccable taste.
Elixir's Essence is a high-end apothecary located in the noble district of Frosthaven. The shop is a haven for those seeking rare and potent concoctions. The interior is filled with shelves of meticulously labeled jars and bottles, each containing ingredients or potions of varying rarity. The air is filled with a complex aroma of herbs, flowers, and other less identifiable scents. At the back of the shop is a well-organized workstation where Thalion and his team prepare their remedies and brew their potions.
Elysia is always seen in tasteful attire, favoring long, flowing dresses of rich fabrics and muted colors, often adorned with antique brooches and pendants from her collection. Her voice is soft yet firm, and she speaks with a measured cadence that commands attention. Her conversations are often filled with historical anecdotes and fascinating trivia about the items in her shop.
Despite her scholarly disposition, Elysia is far from aloof. She is known for her warm hospitality and the genuine interest she shows in her customers' stories. Her passion for history and antiquities is infectious, often inspiring those around her to see the beauty and value in preserving the past. Her shop, "Time's Relics", is a testament to her dedication to her craft, and she is respected in Frosthaven not just as a successful businesswoman, but also as a preserver of history and culture.
In the commoners Market in the heart of Frosthaven, Ivankov's Provisions is a well-known grocery store catering to the diverse population of the city. The store is a charming blend of Irna and Russian architecture, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. It offers a wide variety of goods, from local Irna produce to exotic spices and ingredients from foreign lands, reflecting the city's status as a major trade hub.
A stout and jovial human of Irna descent, Ivan is well-respected in the community for his fair prices and commitment to quality. Known for his deep knowledge of food and ingredients, he often offers cooking advice and recipe suggestions to his customers.
Situated in a bustling corner of Frosthaven, Kuznetsov's Forge is a testament to the city's industrious spirit. The building, a sturdy stone structure with a high, vaulted ceiling, is always filled with the rhythmic clanging of metal and the warm glow of the forge. The interior is a maze of workbenches, anvils, and racks of tools, with a large bellows and forge at the heart of it all. The air is thick with the smell of hot metal and coal smoke.
Boris Kuznetsov, a burly dwarf with a fiery beard and a heart to match, is the master blacksmith and owner of Kuznetsov's Forge. Known for his exceptional skill and meticulous craftsmanship, Boris is a respected figure in Frosthaven's artisan community.
Nestled in a bustling street of Frosthaven, LeBlanc's Fine Footwear is a quaint, two-story building with a charming, rustic facade. The exterior is adorned with a beautifully carved wooden sign depicting a pair of elegant boots. Upon entering, the rich scent of leather and polish greets the nostrils. The interior is a cozy space filled with rows of shelves showcasing a variety of footwear, from sturdy boots to delicate slippers. The walls are adorned with tools of the trade, and a large workbench occupies the back of the shop where the magic happens.
Pierre LeBlanc, a middle-aged human with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye, is the owner of LeBlanc's Fine Footwear. Known for his impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail, Pierre is a well-respected figure in Frosthaven's artisan community.
A quaint clothing shop nestled between two large inns in the heart of Frosthaven's marketplace. The interior is cozy and warm, with rows of fabric, clothing racks, sewing stations, and a large cobblestone fireplace.
Marzi is a cheerful, middle-aged halfling woman who inherited Threads of Frosthaven from her parents. She oversees the day-to-day operations with boundless energy and a keen eye for fashion trends. Marzi is never seen without a measuring tape around her neck.
This charming tailor's shop is situated between the Red Drake Inn and Marlowe's Bakery. A wooden sign depicting a spool of thread and needles hangs above the red-painted door. Inside, the interior is warm and inviting, with wooden floors and rays of sunlight filtering in through large front windows. Bolts of fabric in a rainbow of colors line the walls. Mannequins display the shop's latest fashions. Tailors sit at stations surrounded by scraps of cloth, working on garments in progress.
Talia is a friendly half-elf in her 60s, slim with silver hair worn in a bun. As owner, she handles customers with grace and cheerfully oversees her employees. Talia's clever eye for style and insistence on quality are evident in every garment sewn at the Busy Needle. She can often be seen at her worktable, spectacles perched on her nose, stitching delicate embroidery onto a new dress.
The delicious aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries wafts out onto the street from this charming bakery. Large front windows allow passersby to glimpse the displays of baked goods and sweets within. A sign painted with a piping bag hangs over the green door.
Inside, the bakery is warm and cozy. Displays and shelves along the walls brim with loaves of bread, trays of cookies, cakes, pies, and more. A long counter runs along the back, where customers can order and watch the bakers at work.
Silas is a portly, jovial halfling with a thick beard kept neatly braided. As head baker, he oversees the kitchen, develops new recipes, and proudly serves customers. Silas inherited the bakery from his father and intends to pass it to his own children one day.
This three-story inn is built of dark timber and stone, with a soaring roof and large windows that allow light to fill the spacious interior. A carved wooden sign depicting a red dragon hangs by the front door.
Inside, the main floor houses a large dining area filled with tables and a long bar. A grand stone fireplace dominates one wall. The upper floors contain private rooms for lodging.
Talmor is a bald, heavy-set dwarf who owns the Red Drake Inn. He is easygoing with a hearty laugh, and delights in sharing ale and tales with his patrons in the common room. Talmor's family has run the inn for generations.
This tiny shop is tucked away down a narrow alley draped with purple curtains rather than a door. The exterior is a faded blue, with a sign hanging above the entrance that features an intricately painted eye. The windows are covered with heavy velvet curtains, giving the shop an air of mystery. Upon entering, the scent of incense and old parchment fills the air. Inside, the interior is dark with most of the light coming from flickering candles and a glowing crystal ball on the round table. The walls are draped with exotic patterned fabrics and shelves hold jars of herbs, bones, crystals, and cards etched with arcane symbols. Thick incense hangs in the air.
Zarina is an exotic tiefling woman with long raven hair braided with gold charms that chime when she moves. Her eyes are completely white, yet she seems to stare into one's very soul. She wears flowing silk robes of deep crimson adorned with gold jewelry from her horns to her fingers. Her movements are slow, elegant and deliberate as she guides customers through readings of the cards, palms, or stars. Her voice is soft and melodic as she reveals insights in cryptic terms, allowing the seeker to decipher their own meaning. An ancient deck of engraved cards is always close at hand, the cards seeming to whisper as they are turned over. Zarina claims her gift came from her great grandmother, who was said to consort with demons and see the threads of fate. Though her divination skills are uncanny, the full truth of her abilities remains veiled in mystery.
Zarina provides expert divinations using cards, palms, crystals, and the stars. Her tools may be unconventional, but her accuracy is undeniable. Seek her guidance when you need to make sense of the fog enshrouding your path ahead.
The Jade Serpent Theater is a grand establishment, radiating an aura of elegance and sophistication. The exterior of the building is adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures, and the entrance is framed by two large, jade serpent statues. Inside, the theater is a spectacle of opulence. The walls are draped in rich, emerald-green velvet, and the stage is framed by a grand, golden arch. The seating area is filled with plush, comfortable chairs, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of exotic incense.
This impressive three-story shop is built of stone, with towering pillars carved with arcane runes flanking the entrance. The large front windows gleam, displaying mysterious artifacts, potion bottles, candles, and crystal balls. A sign depicting an unfurling scroll hangs over the oak door.
Inside, the interior is illuminated by glowing orbs hovering beneath the high ceiling. The ground floor contains shelves, cases, and displays packed with all manner of magical wares. A spiral staircase leads up to the second floor office and workspace, and down to the basement filled with bulky inventory.
The Carnivore's Delight is a bustling butcher shop located in the heart of Frosthaven. The exterior of the shop is a rustic blend of stone and wood, with a large wooden sign hanging above the entrance, featuring a carving of a cleaver. The shop's windows are adorned with displays of the day's freshest cuts, enticing passersby with their quality and variety. Upon entering, customers are greeted by the rich, savory aroma of smoked and cured meats. The interior is clean and well-organized, with a large counter displaying an array of meats, and shelves lined with jars of house-made sauces and marinades. The back of the shop houses a large cold room, where the meats are stored and prepared.
Boris Kuznetsov, a burly dwarf with a hearty laugh and a warm smile, is the proud owner of The Carnivore's Delight. His hands are calloused from years of work, and his apron is often stained with the day's work. Despite his gruff exterior, Boris is known for his kindness and his passion for providing the highest quality meats to his customers. He is a master of his craft, with a keen eye for quality and a deep understanding of how to prepare and present each cut of meat to highlight its unique qualities.
This butcher shop stands out with its pristine white walls and large glass windows displaying cuts of meat. A wooden sign engraved with a cleaver and pig hangs over the red door. Inside, the black and white checkered floor stays free of stains thanks to the spotless countertops and tables. Tools and carcasses hang from hooks behind the counter.
Reg is a burly middle-aged human who runs the butchery with military efficiency. His white apron stretched over his barrel chest stays neat, and his close-cropped salt and pepper hair is tucked under a cap. Reg inspects all the meat personally and keeps his knives razor sharp. He expects his employees to maintain his impeccable standards.
A grandiose façade with ornate wooden carvings and gilded edges welcomes patrons. Large bay windows showcase the most exquisite toys, drawing the attention of passersby. The interior is adorned with dark mahogany shelves, each holding a variety of toys, illuminated by soft candlelight from ornate silver sconces.
Lord Cedric Woodworth, a tall, slender man with a meticulously groomed beard and sharp blue eyes. He wears tailored suits of the finest materials and always has a monocle, which he uses to inspect the intricate details of his toys. A former craftsman, he has a keen eye for quality and ensures only the best products grace his store.
Golden Carousel: A miniature carousel made of gold, with tiny wooden horses that move up and down. Detailed engravings adorn its base.
Silver Dragon Automaton: When wound up, this silver dragon flaps its wings and breathes out a tiny puff of smoke. Its eyes are made of sapphire.
Mahogany Puppet Theater: A small theater with velvet curtains. Comes with wooden puppets of kings, queens, and jesters.
Bronze Knight Chess Set: A chess set where each piece is a meticulously crafted bronze knight with ruby and emerald eyes for the two sides.
Rosewood Music Box: When opened, a delicate ballerina made of tin dances to a soft lullaby. The box is adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays.
For an additional fee, Lord Cedric offers customization options, allowing nobles to have toys tailored to their specific desires, be it engraving initials, using specific gemstones, or even crafting a completely unique toy based on a noble's design.