Haval Creek

Welcome to the Village of Havala

History in Brief.

Up until 50 years ago this area was under the ownership of House Navic, a minor feudal lord. Then the Empire expanded to take control of the area, making it part of the North March. There were 2 battles for control of Havala, the locals lost both. As per usual, the Empire abolished the feudal titles and granted any loyal former nobles a sizable estate of privet property. 

The eldest Navic son, Relmon refused to accept the conquest. He became a rebel, an outlaw. Most acts of banditry in the area are attributed to him or his descendants, who are said to live in the West Woods.  The younger Navic son, Edmon did pledge loyalty and received Nobson hall as his estate. Although he stayed very quiet, his descendants have gotten more involved in local politics. 

The Fort, #44 of the March, was built to house 300 troops, and all the basic military infrastructure. After the 5 years of stabilization, the garrison was reduced to 100 troops and has stayed at that level for most of the time. The current Captain of the Fort is Mettel Sereus. He is a stern old man, who goes by the book. He has served as commander for 7 years now and will be retiring soon. 

Over the past few decades there have been very few events of historical significance. 

Basic Population Data.

There are 70 homes in the village itself, with 30 farms outside the wall, in the crescent area and another 10 farms along the river. For a total of around 600 people. That number does not include the Fort and its retirement row of houses, which adds about 160 more people to the area. 

Most interesting feature.

Under the Navic old castle, deep in the hill is a spring that trickles forth water with healing abilities. In the old days control of the spring gave added power to the local Lord. Today the spring is controlled by the alchemist Alton Baff, who made a deal with the Empire for its exclusive use. 

Alton came to the area about 20 years ago and soon set up shop in a hillside cave. A few years later he had a large bath house built so that people could enjoy the cleansing healing waters. This became a good money making tourist attraction. 

Imperial Policy.

Stability is a major motivational force for the March. The Empire does not care about exerting much control over the locals, so long as the area stays peaceful ( towards the Empire ). In this regard the past 50 years have been rather enjoyable. Taxes are very light and not much demanded of the people. Many of whom found their lives made better with the establishment of the feudal system. A lot of land was simply given to the former peasants. 

Having said that, it should be noted that Havala's official reason to exist is to provide supplies to the Fort. Basic goods like food and wood, leather and wool, are taken in taxation. 

The village may govern its own affairs, using a council of elders, however the Fort commander will have ultimate authority -in the name of the Empire- to act for the common good. He may veto any ruling made by the local council if necessary.  The council may appeal to the Governor if it feels a commander is misusing his authority. 

Other features on the map.

   
The grave yard is located at the foot of Druid's Hill (DraShiTor Dana) ontop of which is a circle of standing stones that are said to have been there for 500 years. Also legend has it there is an ancient burial ground in the caves deep under the hill.

Zelethon Hall; Just west of the village, is a small estate with a very large decorative house. It is owned by a retired adventurer, from a distant land, who arrived to settle down 30 years ago.  Zelethon considers himself wise and well educated, a lover of high culture.  He did travel a lot in his younger days and his house is full of exotic art and trinkets from far and wide.

Nobson Hall; Located on the south road, not far from the old castle is the rather large estate of "young master" Edmon, who is now 62. Naturally the place is run by his descendants. Some of whom are happy to work under the Imperial system. Others long for the old days when their family ruled. 

Retirement Row; Across the road from Nobson Hall is a row of small farms. Land here is given to soldiers who wish to retire in this village, often because they have taken a wife here. Ofcourse most troops prefer to go back to the civilized lands to retire.