Overview:
Veridian Keep is a formidable fortress, enshrouded by the dense canopy of Ridgeback Forest. Originally established as a sanctuary and stronghold, this ancient edifice now stands largely forgotten, its once-sturdy walls succumbing to decay and neglect. While rumors have long circulated of various dark forces seeking refuge within its brooding confines, recent whispers persistently insist that orks have established a stronghold within its walls.
Description:
Veridian Keep rises in the heart of Ridgeback Forest, its imposing structure cloaked by the perpetual gloom of the towering trees that envelop it. Constructed from dark, weathered stones, the fortress blends seamlessly into the forest backdrop, making it nearly invisible to the untrained eye. Over the years, nature has claimed much of the keep’s exterior; creeping vines and moss drape over the stone walls, and wild flora has taken root in the crevices, softening the hard lines of military architecture with bursts of green.
The keep itself is a labyrinthine complex designed for defensibility, with winding corridors, multiple chambers, and secret passages that snake through the thick walls. Despite its state of disrepair, the structure retains an air of indomitable strength and eerie timelessness. The main gate, flanked by two crumbling watchtowers, still stands as a testament to the keep’s former grandeur, though the battlements are now lined more often with crows than guards.
History:
Centuries ago, Veridian Keep was built as a strong hold for House Aurorus, whom were dedicated to safeguarding the secrets and sanctity of Ridgeback Forest. Over the years, as House Aurorus relocated to Silverleaf, to better intergrate into the larger Siar’Morrin society, the Veridian keep was abandoned. Since then it has served various roles—from a defensive bulwark against invaders to a secluded refuge for those braving the dangers of the forest. In its heyday, the Keep was a bustling hub for hunters, gatherers, and adventurers. However, years of neglect have seen the keep house little more than rumors in the current age.
Significance:
The keep is a vital refuge and strategic point within the forest. It once was used by hunters, gatherers, and adventurers as a base of operations and a place of safety. Now if rumors are to be levied, the keep serves as a gather ground for an invading ork force.
Notable Features:
- Main Keep: The heart of Veridian Keep, robust and draped in nature’s overgrowth, stands resilient against the test of time and conflict.
- Watchtowers: These high structures provide comprehensive views over the dense forest, essential for both defense and surveillance.
- Great Hall: Once the social center of the keep, adorned with ancient tapestries and relics, now echoing with the ghosts of its grand past.
- Training Grounds: What used to be a bustling area for martial preparations is now reclaimed by the encroaching forest, a symbol of nature’s indomitable will.
- Dungeon: Deep beneath the keep, this dungeon holds the echoes of its past prisoners.
Local Legends or Stories:
One legend tells of Vyranthor the dragon. According to ancient tales, Vyranthor was once a mighty dragon loyal to House Aurorus. He was a fierce guardian, patrolling the skies and protecting Veridian Keep from any threats. The legend holds that Vyranthor returns to the keep on rare occasions, sentimental of its ancient home, although no sightings of dragons in this region have been reported in a long time.
Another legend tells of the of the prisoners abandoned to their fate when the keep was surrendered back to the forest. Over the years, it is said that the restless spirits of these forsaken souls have lingered in the cold, dark corridors beneath the keep.
Visitors’ Experience:
Rumors claim that any who wander near the keep meet their end at the hands of lurking orcs — a charge the remaining members of House Aurorus vehemently deny. Whispers now suggest that Kaiven himself plans to reclaim the fortress, establishing it as a new seat of power since their withdrawal from Silverleaf, and once and for all putting the rumours of orks within the Ridgeback Forest to rest.