Reifenstein

A Haunted City Amidst Treacherous Heights

Nestled in the foothills south of Trollspitze Mountain, Reifenstein has a dark and tragic history. Surrounded by treacherous troll heights, the city is considered dangerous and difficult to access. Despite its natural defenses, the lords of Reifenstein once sought to expand their power and influence in the region. They fought wars against their neighbors, including the Free Valleys and the Duchy of Karneid, to establish dominance. Earlsdale's only publicly known temple of Sorschar, the god of Tyranny, is located here and still operates.

Their power-hungry nature ultimately led to their downfall. Reifenstein was attacked by goblinoid hordes, who set the entire city on fire, leaving it in ruins. The once-grand city became a shadow of its former self, with only a fraction of its previous inhabitants and buildings still standing. The survivors struggled to rebuild, but the memory of the goblinoid attack remained etched in their minds. Many feared the goblinoids would return, and the city became fearful and uncertain.

Today, Reifenstein is a mere shadow of its former self. Though many years have passed since the goblinoid attack, the city remains haunted by its tragic past. The ruins serve as a reminder of the folly of the lords of Reifenstein, and many adventurers and historians seek to uncover the secrets and treasures hidden within them. The ruling family escaped to their holdings in and around the half-ruin Schluchtenburg north in the Vinshgau valley. From their base, they have kept on intimidating their foes.

Since the goblinoid attack, Reifenstein has been left partly in ruins and has no central government. However, some surrounding villages have established a loose council to manage the area's resources and meet their people's needs. The council consists of elected representatives from each village, who meet regularly to discuss issues affecting the region. While the council has no official authority over the ruins of Reifenstein, they have made efforts to preserve the area and prevent looting and damage to the site.

Despite its tragic history, Reifenstein remains essential for those seeking to understand Earlsdale. Its ruins are a testament to the power of greed and the consequences of war, and its location in the foothills south of Trollspitze Mountain makes it a place of natural beauty and danger. Visitors to Reifenstein are warned to be cautious, as the troll heights remain a dangerous and unpredictable place. Yet, for those willing to take the risk, Reifenstein offers a glimpse into a world long past and a reminder of the fragility of human power and the resilience of the human spirit.

Adventure Hooks

The Temple of Tyranny: Explore the only publicly known temple of Sorschar and uncover its dark rituals and hidden power.
The Goblinoid Menace: Rumors of a new goblinoid threat arise. Investigate and defend the region from another potential attack.
The Troll Threat: Trolls from the heights have begun encroaching on the ruins. Protect the village council and the remaining inhabitants from these dangerous creatures.
The Lost Family: Descendants of the ruling family seek to reclaim their ancestral home. Assist them in navigating the political and physical dangers of Reifenstein.
The Haunted Council: The spirits of the old lords of Reifenstein are said to haunt the council's meetings. Unravel their unfinished business and bring peace to their souls.