Baseta Keep V2

BASETA 1
BASETA 1
aseta is a river port on the edge of Taelda lands. The Location: Meselynshire, Kingdom of
remote keep is held by Constable Eres Tereneth for Kaldor
Declaen Caldeth, the Earl of Vemion. The settlement’s Holder: Constable Eres Tereneth
distance from its liege gives Sir Eres wide freedom of Liege: Earl of Vemion
action. The fief has a large urban population, many Population: 660
of them refugees from the Jarin Rebellion in Orbaal
(701–03). The hunting is excellent and Sir Eres goes to TAXES
great lengths to stay on good terms with his barbarian Property: 6% per year (residential)
neighbors. He encourages the trade of civilized goods, except weapons, in 2% per year (business)
exchange for furs, herbs and medicines for which the Taelda are renowned. Hawking: 7% goods’ value
Bonding: 1% goods’ value per month
Wharfage: 2f per foot, per day
HISTORY Toll: 1f per wheel (non-local)
Built around 140 on a granite eminence overlooking the Kald River by
King Sanric I of Nurelia, Baseta guarded the northern approaches to his
kingdom from the incursions of the tribes as they migrated into his lands.
His successor, Sanric II completed the keep. The original structure was a
stone tower surrounded by a wooden palisade. In 238, after the Battle of
Olokand in which the rebellious Nurelian barons were defeated, Baseta
came under control of King Kalabin of Kaldor. Over the years, Baseta was
typically held by a younger child of the King. In 603, when Colm Caldeth
was created 14th Earl of Vemion by the newly crowned Haldan I, he also Credits
granted Baseta to the loyal vassal. The keep had fallen into some disrepair Writer: Matt Roegner
by this point, and the new holder quickly built a new and more impressive Contributor: Matt Leber
keep within the wooden walls of the stronghold. An influx of Jarin refugees Maps: Nicholas Lowson, C. I. Roegner
from Orbaal from 701 substantially augmented the population, leading to a Heraldry: C. I. Roegner, Matt Roegner
Artist: Bernhard Bihler
building spree, much of it south of Dabell Creek. The resulting boost to the
Editing: Matt Roegner
town’s economy has led to an unexpected prosperity. The present constable
Layout: C. I. Roegner
has been in his position for over twenty years, appointed by his friend and
The Melderyn Campaign, www.melderyn.com
liege, Celed, the 18th Earl, the present Earl’s father.
© 2020, 2021, J. M. Roegner, N. Robin Crossby & Columbia Games, Inc. HârnWorld®
BASETA 2
CURRENT SITUATION
As of 720, Baseta is a prosperous fief that contributes over £1000 to
the coffers of the Earl of Vemion. Until recently it had a sleepy reputation,
with nothing too exciting, but neither too dull. However, all that changed a
year ago. A series of horrific murders has occurred every month for the past
year, with a number of the victims from nearby villages. When found, the
unfortunates always have their liver, lungs, and heart absent. Speculation
runs rampant, with rumors of a man-eating wolf or even a lycanthrope – the
nature of which few know anything concrete – have terrified the community.
Relations with the Taelda have become strained as some have blamed
them for the atrocities. While the Constable has discouraged any such talk,
some have muttered in hushed tones that an even fouler, more ancient
entity may be at fault. Sir Eres has asked the Bailiff of Allence Hundred at
Dabell to investigate and resolve the problem. Lady Wilia of Margant, the
Constable’s Seneschal and mistress,
has her own theory, which centers on
the Temple of Ilvir and its so-called
‘blind mystic.’ She knows the Constable
Constable Eres Tereneth
Sir Eres, a robust and jolly widower of
does not wish to antagonize the Jarin
middle years, keeps one of the finer
refugees, and so she has quietly asked tables and cellars in Meselyneshire if not
her brother to investigate, and he is in Kaldor. In order to keep his table both
looking for someone who can do that stocked and to provide entertainment
with discretion that cannot be traced for his guests, he hosts frequent hunting
back to him. His relations with the parties. Always well attended, the local
Constable being strained, he would not nobility covet invitations to both the hunts
have it said that he was treading on his and the feasts. Sir Eres is a man of many
liege’s prerogatives. appetites, and while he has no interest in
remarrying, neither is he a Peonian priest.
His current mistress, Wilia of Margant, is
JARIN REFUGEES the daughter of a vassal lord and young
After the Jarin Rebellion in Orbaal of 701-3, many of the Jarin who enough to be his own daughter. Still, they
had risen up fled the icy northern kingdom. Some because they had been understand each other, and Lady Wilia
too visible and there was a price on their head and others because they serves as Seneschal of Baseta. She is an
could not stomach the failure of the rebellion and reconcile to living under outrageous flirt but loyal to Sir Eres.
the Ivinian conquerors. A substantial number arrived in Kaldor via Noron’s
Way and while many found welcome in Nephshire, more than a few made Sir Eres is quite disturbed by the recent
their way to Baseta, where the Constable welcomed them. Baseta was in spree of murders which have unsettled his
need of additional labor, and though the refugees made poor peasants, lands. Although he has found governing
they were excellent as freehold farmers. Providing rents and cash crops, the Baseta easy over the years, this crisis is
Constable’s coffers swelled. He approved a temple and new holdings sprang new, and has jolted him into action. At
least, he has asked the Bailiff of Allence
up in the eastern and southern portions of Baseta. Sir Eres has incorporated
Hundred for assistance. Beyond that, he
their customs and games into the annual festival, and would like to raise a is at a loss, but he knows if word reaches
dedicated company of militia from among them. To that end, he has offered Minarsas, the Earl of Vemion may feel
to establish a separate village for the refugees, with Klowyn of Seylne – the honor bound to intervene.
son of the rebellious Jarin overlord of Lorkin – as its headman. The 15’
granite stone at the Jarin Crossing is known as “The Jarin Sword” and is
In addition, the recent return of his son
carved with numerous pictures and a hole in the center of its upper section. Sir Miren and his changed demeanor, have
There are many rumors about its origin, and some believe that it was placed worried the generally jolly Sir Eres. He
in order to reveal the location of a hidden treasure when the sun shines wonders at the changes around him, and
through the hole at the right time of year. No one has ever found any. if he is still up to the task of managing so
great a fief. Lady Wilia has tried to stiffen
RELIGION his resolve, but knows she can only do so
The religion of Baseta is similar to that of the rest of Kaldor. The much
Laranian and Peonian churches have tax-exempt status on their temples.
BASETA 3
Since the influx of Jarin refugees, a small Ilviran temple has been dedicated THE CONSTABLE’S HUNT
for them. The Constable largely turns a blind eye to it, although he is clear Sir Eres, a keen hunter, sponsors an
that he expects to see no “odd creatures” as he terms the Ivashu. Worship annual hunt just prior to the Fur Fair. All
of Agrik, Morgath, or Naveh is punishable by death. Other religions are of the nobles of Baseta and its manors
discouraged. are invited, along with other nobles of the
Allence, Ambarnis, Myaman, and Nelefayn
hundreds. The Earls of Vemion and Neph
ECONOMICS are also invited out of courtesy, though
Baseta prospers from the fertile soil of the surrounding area and the neither has ever attended. Over the two
innkeepers, teamsters, and others who profit from the flow of trade. The days of the hunt, depending on the game,
the Constable’s master of the hunt devotes
abundant forests of the area produce a surplus of charcoal, much of which
one day to the stag and one to the boar.
finds its way to Olokand and Tashal. Many of the vassal manors boast a The hunt begins just after dawn in Gallard
charcoaler, more than is typical for such a fief. Due to trade with the Taelda, Square, and many of the townsfolk gather
furs, especially beaver, badger, and rabbit, are plentiful. The amount far to see the nobles who wear their heraldic
exceeds Baseta’s demand, but such pelts find a ready market elsewhere in surcoats for the occasion. At the end of
the kingdom. Mercantylers from all over Kaldor either come to Baseta or each day’s hunt, all of the kills are roasted
send factors in order to buy furs. Many of them will trade in metals like and there is always enough to provide for
iron and tin, which are in demand as Baseta has no nearby mines. There the needs of the castle and to distribute to
is a expanded market four times a month on each of the Peonian Lesser the townsfolk. At the end of the hunt, the
Constable accords the noble deemed most
Sapelahs and an annual Fur Fair in mid-Halane. The Taelda are often seen
worthy the choicest cut of meat as well as
in Baseta on these days. The three-day fair brings in folk from all over the a silver flagon later to be engraved with the
hundred, eager to see what new sights and goods are in the offing. The worthy gentleperson’s arms.
Constable hosts various games and attractions. A highlight of the fair is
always the on the third day when the Taelda demonstrate their skill with
archery. Due to the large number of freehold farms – many of them Jarin
refugees – there is often a surplus of cash crops like fruit and flax. Some of
the refugee freeholders have begun to distill the fruit into brandy, and others
have made a stronger beverage from their homeland they call ‘uisgebagh.’
The Red Swan Inn has recently started offering it to patrons.
BASETA 4 GM MAP
BASETA 5
1 CAER BASETA (See page 8) a villager quipped that this was the Constable’s way of
honoring Naveh. The foolish man spent three days in the
[a] Stable: Bonded master ostler Lycenis of Kadados.
Bonded master metalsmith Moster of Jaksyrth. stocks; so pelted that he has been disfigured for life.
2 BONDING HOUSE 8 METALSMITH

Size: 5
(Chepin of Querelm)
Quality: ✰✰✰ Prices: Average
Strongly built and guarded by two hired men-at-arms,
Chepin’s busy establishment is the only smithy in Baseta
Baseta’s bondmaster Zainot of Redlam oversees the
outside of the keep. Serving the ostler [9], the local
goods stored here. Some goods come by road after
populace, and visitors, Chepin needs to take on another
passing the toll house, others via the river. The latter river
journeyman to meet demand. With no suitable candidates
transport moor by the small quay abutting the bonding
in Baseta, Chepin is considering sending someone to
house. The adjacent structure is the traditonal residence
recruit in other large settlements.
of Baseta’s bondmaster.
3 Size:
SHIPWRIGHT (Baltor of Lemionis) 9 OSTLER
Size: 4
(Anaflund of Ibawith)
6 Quality: ✰✰✰✰ Prices: Low
Anaflund’s principal business is with the keep, taking on
Baltor serves as Baseta’s harbormaster, though as no
horses from those providing service but not important
vessel exceeding 30’ has arrived in years, his duties there
enough to stable their horses in the keep. He has an
are light. An exceptional shipwright, his skills are wasted
excellent relationship with Lycenis of Kadados – the two
in this backwater, but those river craft he builds are in
men are very close friends.
demand far away to the south due to their quality.
4 THE RED SWAN INN (Rek of Stritt) 10 MILLER

Size: 5
(Llan of Boochad)
Size: 5 Quality: ✰✰✰ Prices: High
Llan is the miller for both town and manor. His wife,
Baseta’s better inn, and the principal lodging of those
Demeldis, runs the adjacent bakehouse, and their breads
travelers who can afford it. The accomodations are clean,
and pies are available for sale in Gallard Square daily.
the food palatable, and the ale well-brewed. Little more
Demeldis despises her husband, and has denied him her
can be said, although guests are relatively safe – Rek pays
bed since the birth of their only child seven years ago.
a regular stipend to the local Lia-Kavair [22], ironically
Llan is growing increasingly frustrated with the situation
also his competition as an innkeeper. Bonded ostler Feltis
and may resort to drastic action.
of Chomslanis sees to the inn’s stable.
5 TOLL BOOTH 11 HIDEWORKER

Size: 3
(Korbeyn of Naldetor)
Quality: ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ Prices: High
Baseta charges a toll for those who do not live in A skilled worker of leather, Korbeyn
the town but bring goods to its bustling market. The enjoys adding beadwork to some of
tollmaster collects a farthing for every wheel a vendor her better work. Her husband is one
uses to carry goods. Two guards armed with spear and of her journeymen, and he chafes
shield enforce compliance. Some have tried to get around at his subordinate role to his wife
the toll using only beasts of burden; the Constable has both in guild status and in skill. He is
decreed that each hoof counts as a wheel in such cases. slowly poisoning her with the intent
6 TIMBERWRIGHT
Size: 4
(Dwytë of Marwynel)
of taking over the franchise. Though
Korbeyn does not suspect, she has
The ground floor of this structure serves as a warehouse not felt herself for some time, and is
for the timber that Dwytë logs. Almost all of his custom planning on consulting Martansa of Curo [14].
is local. A shy man, he is uncomfortable around strangers
and especially female strangers. 12 TENTMAKER
Size: 3
(Yornath of Maaken)
Quality: ✰ Prices: Average
7 GALLARD SQUARE Yornath is a very poor craftsman whose shoddy work is
the bane of his customers. From the guildsmen who must
The main market square of Baseta, open four times a
regularly replace the canopies of their market stalls to
month, though a few merchants like the miller [10] sell
the nobles who shiver as the wind blows through the gaps
daily in the morning. The stocks are often filled by minor
in the weave, all seek custom elsewhere. Those who can
offenders, but as needed, the gallows will be employed to
afford it almost all buy from Shawe of Lemra in Olokand
execute those convicted of capital crimes. A lively crowd
[13]. Those who cannot, curse Yornath, who has no
usually gathers to witness such events. The Constable
friends amongst his patrons.
finds such activities an unfortunate part of his duties, and
so limits executions to the 30th of the month. Recently,
BASETA 6
13 TEMPLE OF ILVIR (Order of the Yellow Hand) 18 LITIGANT
Size: 2
(Dewmanda of Cheseleth)
Quality: ✰✰✰✰ Prices: High
This temple was established in 705 when three
clerics from Tashal joined with three clerics who had There is little demand for Dewmanda’s services in Baseta
accompanied many of the Jarin refugees to Baseta. They and his journeyman can handle most of that. However,
provide spiritual guidance for those Jarin in Baseta, and Dewmanda is good friends with the Constable and
a handful of locals who have found Ilviranism attractive. advises him on various matters, especially the occasional
Their acknowledged head is one of the elder clerics from appeals from the manor courts. Unbeknownst to the
Orbaal, Ealmon of Verenis, a half-blind mystic who claims Constable, Dewmanda has fallen in love with Wilia of
to have been birthed by Ilvir himself. This has caused him Margant. Though discreet, he has taken to frequenting
to be treated as an Ivashu by many of his flock, but the the caer more than can be justified.
Constable, who has forbidden the “odd creatures” as he
terms them, considers the old man a harmless crank.
19 MERCANTYLER
Size: 4
(Weylan of Elst)
Weylan’s business primarily survives by meeting the
14 PHYSICIAN
Size: 3
(Martansa of Curo)
Quality: ✰✰✰✰ Prices: High needs of the local guildsmen and nearby nobility. He
Martansa’s brother Dallisen is also a physician, practicing lends money and acts as a factor. Sir Eris Karondal, Lord
in Heru [16]. Unlike her brother, she is a close-mouthed of nearby Hetheron Manor and Sheriff of Balimshire is
person, scoffing when anyone notices that she bears the deeply in debt to him.
surname of a great magnate. She and her brother meet
every month or so, sometimes in Baseta, sometimes in
20 MASON (Gynethaen of Kiselica)
Size: 3 Quality: ✰✰ Prices: Average
Heru. Also unlike her brother, Martansa is a genuinely Gynethaen inherited the franchise from his father two
compassionate person, and she will treat anyone to the years ago. He has nothing like the expertise of his sire:
utmost of her skill, seeking payment only later. one building he has constructed in the last year has
already begun to subside. The Constable won’t allow
15 MERCANTYLER
Size: 6
(Mafedis of Mautenor)
Quality: ✰✰✰ Prices: High him near the caer and is considering recruiting a bonded
mason.
Mafedis acts as the Constable’s personal factor, and in
exchange he has a near complete monoploy on the trade
between the Taelda and the trade in civilized goods. This
21 POTTER
Size: 2
(Klothan of Mautenor)
Quality: ✰✰✰ Prices: High
has made him very wealthy. While this should make him Demand is growing for Klothan’s wares, and he is
completely loyal to the Constable, in fact, his personal having difficulty meeting the local need for pottery.
greed has overcome his better senses. Mafedis has been On top of that, the Constable’s desire to expand trade
skimming from the Constable for years, and it is only with the Taelda is causing Klothan and his overworked
because the profits have been so great that Sir Eres has apprentice to put in long hours every day. He is seeking a
not questioned him. If business were to take a turn for journeyman to help out.
the worse, however, or if any one of Mafedis’ journeymen
– who all know what’s going on – were to betray him, 22 BUSTLING
Size: 5
PIG INN (Sistiel of Zeledan)
Quality: ✰✰ Prices: Low
then that might be a different story. As much a tavern as an inn, this establishment serves
16 CLOTHIER
Size: 6
(Ighna of Grekoln)
mostly locals. Sistiel is also the Lia-Kavair guildmaster,
but despite this being fairly common knowledge, it has
While Ighna is an excellent tailor, the lack of other little practical import. Apart from a some smuggling
clothiers means that her business involves all aspects of and protection, there is not much
production. Though she buys some finished cloth on her in the way of criminal opportunity
annual trip to Tashal, her apprentices and journeymen in Baseta. At the very least, Sistiel,
full, weave, dye, and shape the wools that she tailors into who is past his prime, has not found
fine garments. Ighna only sells finished clothing. much. The Lia-Kavair here is little
more than a drinking club. Most
17 WEAPONCRAFTER
Size: 5
(Myndert of Thelen)
of the services of the Bustling Pig
– rooms, food, prostitutes – are of
Myndert’s main business is with the caer where he
mediocre quality. There is a stable,
provides for the needs of the fortress. With little other
but no ostler.
demand, he devotes the rest of his time to producing high
quality arms and armor for general resale. Most of his
wares are the equal of the finest weaponcrafters in the
23 SALTER
Size: 5
(Naturk of Naterkel)
Quality: ✰✰✰✰ Prices: Low
kingdom. The Naterkels have been salters in Baseta for generations.
BASETA 7
As a clan, they consider their antiquity to be almost temple’s success. A small hostel on the grounds is used
noble. The recipes and techniques for preserved meats for visiting members of the Order of the Balm of Joy.
and sausages have been closely guarded secrets of the
senior clan members since they established the franchise. 27 WOODCRAFTER
Size: 3
(Jareg of Horbainna)
Only family members are allowed to work in the business. Jareg specializes in cabinets and other furniture for
24 TEMPLE OF LARANI (St. Poulanos Abbey) storage. He does produce other items, but he is happiest
making the more intricate pieces, many of which he
The once great Abbey of St. Poulanos was one of the
first institutions to honor the 4th century saint after adorns with decorative carvings.
his canonization. Generously endowed by the Tane
monarchs, the magnificent abbey temple was one of
28 LOCKSMITH
Size: 2
(Neliala of Dern)
the premier sites of Laranian piety in northern Kaldor. In her youth, Neliala traveled to Azadmere and was able
Over the centuries however, it has been eclipsed by other to examine the work of Khuzan locksmiths. Captivated,
foundations. In the 5th century, the then Bishop (Rekela) she has tried to meet the same standards. Many think she
of Nurez considered relocating his seat from Abriel has come close, but she is not among them.
Abbey to St. Poulanos. Ultimately deciding that Abriel
provided for greater independence, St. Poulanos began 29 CHANDLER
Size: 4
(Trodis of Llastah)
a slow, but steady, decline from that time, especially Trodis specializes in making beeswax candles, though he
when most of its lands were reassigned to Abriel. Now offers tallow as well. A widower, he is actively seeking
sporting barely a dozen clergy and a small contingent of a new wife. However, his mother-in-law believes he
retired brethren of the Order of the Lady of Paladins, the murdered her daughter (not true) and she denounces him
Abbey survives largely on the generosity of the Constable to any and all who will listen. This has scared off more
and local lords. The present Abbot (Serolan), Gathul than one potential mate.
Plaganel, understands that appointment here is a sign
that one has gone as far in the church as one is going to 30 DESMESNE MANOR
go. Determined that will not be his fate, Abbot Gathul is The manorhouse, outbuildings, and silos of Baseta
planning a pilgrimage throughout the kingdom to preach Manor, which comprises 1700 acres of its own. A cidery
a series of fiery sermons to raise his profile. Coming on the grounds brews a cider popular in many of the
along will be the Abbey’s most sacred relic: the mitre of shire’s inns. Sir Eres is bailiff of the manor, but delegates
St. Poulanos. He will need a suitably pious escort, as the that to the reeve, Lethir of Dabelund. He delights in living
elderly meken of his temple are not up to the task. in the small, but comfortable manorhouse (a). Many of
the peasantry feel his wife puts on airs above her station.
25 CHARCOALER (Tesenas of Firanan)
Size: 4 Quality: ✰✰✰ Prices: Average
Tesenas has utterly withdrawn from his business, which
31 APOTHECARY
Size: 3
(Rahelis of Hoven)
Quality: ✰✰✰✰ Prices: Very High
his journeyman is attempting to maintain. Tesenas’ wife Young for a master, tall, blonde, and beautiful, Rahelis
was the most recent victim of the inexplicable murders has a natural gift for herblore. Often, she can instantly
that have plagued the area. Having been the one to find identify most plants, but even if unknown she can almost
her, Tesenas has still not recovered from the shock, but always place it in its family and genus. Her concoctions
wanders about muttering about how the authorities are are very good though not on the level of her botanical
incompetent and uncaring. skill (five stars). She is friendly with the Taelda, speaking
their dialect as well as being literate in their writing. On
26 TEMPLE OF PEONI her frequent trips to collect herbs, she often visits with
A temple of the Irreproachable Order and home to a few the tribesmen and has grown close to one warrior in
of members of the Shield of Belsirasin. The fortunes of particular, even as another pays her close attention.
this temple have fared much better than their Laranian
neighbors. Due to the generosity of the priests, donations 32 The
CHIESA MANOR (SOUTH)
southernmost fields of Chiesa Manor, held
of goods, foodstuffs, and money are out of proportion to
the temple’s needs. The temple’s leading priest, Ebasethe by Sir Sepian Chies, and part of the Barony of Setrew.
Talva of Thelen, believes that no more than is needed The rest of the small hamlet lies to the west of the
by the clergy should be retained. He typically tries to cut field. The main village of the manor is to the north, and
back even from that, and all excess is distributed back to the majority of the manor’s population lives there. Sir
the neediest amongst the townsfolk and peasants. The Sepian’s uncle, Sir Florian often crosses the Kald to hunt
Peonians are much beloved. The Shieldmen – equally with his friend the Constable.
generous with their talents – have only contributed to the
BASETA 8
CAER BASETA crawling through the cask, though the Constable
barely fits through these days.
[3] Storage/Well: This chamber which houses the
GROUND FLOOR keep’s well is used to store odd pieces of furniture,
[1] Butchery/Salting: Sir Eres keeps a fine table, non-perishable items, and anything which isn’t
and on account of that, his kitchen staff includes a expected to be needed in the near future.
bonded master salter, Brenial of Mevurk. Much of
[4] Inquiry Room/Dungeon: The Constable has
his work takes place here and the hanging meats
little need for harsh interrogation methods, and on
and cheeses give the whole area a sharp, tangy
the very rare occasions he does, acts as his own
aroma. His specialty is sausages made from offal.
interrogator. The cell, however, is used to house
Several cats keep guard over the delicacies in their
those destined for the gallows until the appointed
own way. This entry to the keep is both a weak point
day.
in the defense and a sally port as needed.
[5] Armory: This chamber houses the spare arms for
[2] Secret Treasury: Only the Constable, his son,
the keep. There is enough weaponry here to outfit
and the Earl of Vemion know about this chamber,
at least a second company of men-at-arms. A small
accessible through a secret door in the cask. (No
chest holds ready silver coin, usually about £2.
one is permitted to tap this cask which is said to
contain a fine distillation the Constable is saving for
a special occasion.) Entry into the treasury involves
BASETA 9
SECOND FLOOR the kitchen and the Great Hall, constributing their
[1] Entry/Storage: The main entrance to the keep own special aromas to both.
which is not especially defensible. Much of this [5] Kitchen: The domain of the Chief Cook, Aldo of
chamber is given over to storage of common and Zetinam, who rules this place with iron-fisted humor.
frequently used items. More meticulous in his cooking and its presentation
[2] Barracks: Half of Baseta’s garrison of light foot than Sir Eres, he samples every dish before it leaves
men-at-arms are quartered here. These men are his kitchen in order to assure it meets his exacting
mainly tasked with guarding the keep.Chapel: Senior standards. He is known to poke his head into into
Barracks: These separate quarters serve the captain the Great Hall during feasts to see how his culinary
of the company, Elgam of Waddor, and the sergeant creations are being received.
of the guard. [6] Ready Storage: Ale, wine, and other frequently
[3] Great Hall: Sir Eres duly loves a feast, especially used items are stored here. Along with one barrel of
after a successful hunt. He is generous of hand oil that is ready to be poured down the stairs in case
and table, and will invite as many to dine here as an attacker breaches the sally port.
possible. Most days, this hall sees only those who
live in the caer and the few normal guests (such as
Dewmanda of Cheselith).
[4] Garde-Robes: The main lavatories of the keep. Sir
Eres frequently talks of relocating them, but nothing
ever comes of it. Meanwhile, they remain between
BASETA 10
THIRD FLOOR man. He avoids his
[1] Knights Quarters: Those knights rendering feudal father’s festivities,
service are usually quartered here, their squires preferring long
bedding down wherever they can. Most of the solitary rides
knights enjoy their time at Baseta, with its few through the
burdens and many social opportunities. In better countryside. His
weather, they often gather on the battlements to former sense of
carouse and gamble over libations. humor has turned
dark and a little
[2] Gallery: In Baseta, the tradition of the Ladies’
disturbing. He has
Gallery is maintained, and the women of the
become fixated on
household eat here separately from the men who
the brief nature
feast below. However, since the only lady of the
of mortal life.
household is Wilia of Margant, and she insists on
Sir Eres neither understands nor approves of the
eating in the Great Hall, the custom is honored
change in his son.
infrequently.
[4] Council Chamber: Sir Eres holds important,
[3] Sir Miren’s Quarters: The dour knight spends
but confidential meetings in the chamber. In the
much time here, drinking. His father is beside
northeast corner is a private shrine to Larani.
himself with worry. The merry atmosphere of
the constable’s court has been upset by his son’s [5] Captain of the Guard’s Quarters: Sir Tranepter
demeanor. Once a fine jouster and a popular ladies’ Kressenta occupies this room. A scion of the
champion, Sir Miren recently returned from the Nephshire clan, he is presently courting Lady Yylie
Solori Crusades on the Melderyni frontier a changed Karondal, a relative of the Sheriff of Balimshire.
[6] Constable’s Quarters: Sir Eres shares these
spacious rooms with his mistress Lady Wilia of
Margant. She serves as seneschal of the caer, but
in all other respects, as the lady of the castle. Once,
long ago, Sir Eres proposed marriage to her and she
turned him down. Now, as she is getting older, she
wonders if she should have accepted. She knows Sir
Eres has no interest in more children at his age, but
she has lately begin to think differently for herself.
It may have something to do with the change in Sir
Miren, or the Constable’s doubts over his position.
Nevertheless, Lady Wilia is contemplating a change;
retiring to a manor with the man she loves and
starting a family.
BASETA 11
ROOF [2] Tower Fourth Level: The eastern tower of the
[1] Upper Battlements: The upper battlements of the keep has a fourth level, the highest point of the
caer are rarely guarded. In the event of an attack, keep. Sir Eres sometimes ascends to its roof when
however, they provide crucial defensive positions. he has something to contemplate. He finds the view
to the river and over the town concentrates his
thinking.
BASETA 12
OLD TOWER
[1] Cellar/Crypt: Rarely entered anymore, the
stone ceiling collapsed decades ago. The present
inhabitants of the caer know about the crypts, but
do not know who is buried here as the tombs have
no inscriptions. Punishment detail for the garrison
includes ‘guarding the old ones’ though only for the
most serious infractions.
[2] Ground Floor: The floor here collapsed decades
ago, primarily due to age and lack of maintenance.
This was the original keep of Caer Baseta, and
when the larger fortress was built, this structure was
relegated to barracks. The flooring has grown more
unstable with the passage of time, and it wouldn’t
take much to bring more of it down.
[3] Second Floor: Six men-at-arms are quartered here.
Despite the ramshackle condition of the tower,
the guards stationed here like it as they are usually
too far away for the captain of the guard to assign
them impromptu duties. Their main responsibility
is to patrol the palisade, though at night, they often
just watch from the tower roof. In winter, especially
when the wind is off the Kald, this chamber is cold,
drafty, and moans.
STABLE/METALSMITH
[1] Smithy: Moster of Jaksyrth, bonded master
metalsmith to the caer is kept busy here shoeing
horses, and making or repairing the various metal
implements required to maintain the keep.
[2] Stables: Lycenis of Kadados, who is the bonded
master ostler, cares for the horses of the keep as
well as those of important visitors. He oversees two
stableboys, who try to avoid him whenever they can.
[3] Quarters: Most of the structure is open to the
south, but a wattle and daub ‘cabin’ occupies this
end. The two masters sleep here, but as Moster
cannot abide Lycenis, he spends his nights as often
as not at the Bustling Pig [22].
[4] Hayloft: The two mistreated stableboys sleep here
in the loft. Lycenis will beat them for the slightest
infraction, saying he intends to force character on
them. One is contemplating running away. The other
is contemplating murder.
BASETA 13
GATEHOUSE [2] Roof: The only access to the interior of the

[1] Quarters: Accessible only by ladder, this chamber gatehouse is via the ladders, which are easily pulled
serves as quarters for the four men-at-arms charged up if needed. With the caer high up on a near
with guarding the gatehouse. Very little threatening impassable escarpment, this is the most vulnerable
ever seems to happen, and the guards have become part of the fortress. Nevertheless, a powerful defense
lax. could be offered from these ramparts.
BASETA 14
MANOR CAPSULES
(Note: For additional data about these manors, see Kaldor
Kingdom Module (5610) page 24.)
Feron (Sir Saran Varela, Bailiff) [J5]

Note: For this manor, see Byfrd-Feron by Brian McNeilly
available from Lythia.com.
Ansteedon (Sir Aekris Tarandin, Bailiff) [J4]

Scarcely an arrowshot from Baseta itself, Ansteedon lies
along the river road towards Olokand. Its 1950 acres are
devoted more towards livestock than is usual, and the
manor boasts over 500 sheep and better than a thousand
pigs. Some traveling north along the road quip that An-
steedon can be smelled long before it is seen. The bailiff
is a frequent hunting guest of Sir Eres Tereneth, and the
two men share an equal taste for venison. Sir Aekris’ wife
of 22 years has borne him fourteen living children, the
eldest of whom has just been knighted. He has taken over
from his father for the knight’s fee rendered to Baseta. Gentes (Sir Sorol Margant) [J4]
Ansteedon has suffered three of the mysterious deaths The first manor north of Baseta along the Kald River
over the last year, and many of the peasants have taken road, Sir Sorol is the younger brother of Wilia of Margant.
to going about discreetly armed with clubs or other His sister has been Seneschal of the household at Baseta
implements. since before he inherited the manor, an arrangement that
his father may have approved, but Sir Sorol definitely
does not. There is little he can do about it. As a result,
however, he only visits Baseta Keep when absolutely
necessary. His younger brother Sir Navinor (and heir as
Sir Sorol is unmarried), renders feudal service. For itself,
though small at 1300 acres, the addition of the outlying
manor Aquina provides a comfortable if not lavish living
for the Margant clan. Gentes has lost two people to the
murder series over the last year.
Aquina (Reeve) [J4]
A small hamlet of 490 acres held for Sir Sorol
Margant by the village reeve. Inland from the river,
and at the end of its own trail, the village enjoys
Byfrd (Sir Lumin Calayner) [J5] something almost like autonomy. The reeve makes
Note: For this manor, see Byfrd-Feron by Brian McNeilly sure that any request from Gentes is fulfilled to the
available from Lythia.com. letter to keep this so. Thus far, no one has been
killed in Aquina.
BASETA 15
Jastere (Sir Jasten Jastere) [J5] Lachel (Sir Merjan Binthe) [J5]
A remote manor of 1760 very fertile acres well off the In the Nelafayn Hundred, Lachel holds 1330 acres and
road and past nearby Rovinath Manor in the Myaman is a more recent holding of Baseta. Granted by Queen
Hundred, Jastere has been held by the clan of the same Chelebin III from Olokand to Baseta as payment of a
name for hundreds of years. Sir Jasten – family records wager when Elfrod Caldeth, the 17th Earl of Vemion won
do not record the number of that name who preceded the royal tournament at Olokand. As an act of chivalry,
him but it is at least eight – looks down on the Constable the Earl granted the manor to the Queen’s champion,
of Baseta as a mere parvenu knight. Scrupulously polite Sir Pellan Binthe, and his grandson, Sir Merjan, holds it
whenever they meet, Sir Jasten Jastere of Jastere cannot now. That knight has not been the best steward of the
help but treat his older liege with some condescension estate, being prone to attacks of anxiety, self-doubt, and
even if he is completely unaware he is doing so. Sir Eres, depression. Unmarried, and unlikely to change that state,
for his part, considers the whole attitude humorous. The Sir Merjan has no heirs. In the event of his death, the
present Sir Jasten the Younger renders feudal service. manor would escheat to Baseta, and it would fall to Sir
Eres to appoint a bailiff or refer the matter to Minarsas.
Sir Eres has accepted scutage in lieu of service.
Kerk (Sir Endel Napaldy) [J5]

Like Jastere, Kerk Manor is in the Myaman Hundred and
Lezorn (Sir Ketten Zaldarne) [J4]
is somewhat remote from Baseta. Sir Endel is friendly
with his near neighbor at Jastere, and the two frequently In his youth, Sir Kettan Zaldarne was a puissant
exchange news and views as the only two Baseta manors tournament knight, prone to deeds of derring-do, and
in the hundred. Kerk, consisting of 1410 fertile acres, is something of a dandy. The death of his father and his
heavily forested on its western edge, and boasts excellent subsequent in-heritance changed the frivolous young
hunting. Sir Endel has recently remarried after the death knight, and he has settled down to a stalwart supporter
of his first wife, and is smitten with his pretty – pregnant of the Constable. Having married a daughter of clan
– young bride. Synarth, he has sired two sons, and is a devoted father
and husband. So changed was he by his father’s death,
that most of his youthful friends have abandoned him,
and his stolid char-acter has attracted no new ones. Sir
Ketten is a lonely man – if only he realized it. The manor
BASETA 16
of 1510 acres has only lost one villager to the murders, motivation to replace him. Only the lack of a suitable
but Sir Ketten – who fulfills his own feudal service – has candidate and the series of murders have stayed the
offered to lead the investigation himself. The Constable Constable’s decision.
has so far not taken him up on that offer. Ardis (Reeve) [J5]
A modest fief of 630 acres held by the village reeve.
Ardis benefits from its location on the Kald River,
and produces a large quantity of dried and salted
fish from the village clans specializing in fishing. A
weir contructed on river near the northern edge of
the village takes advantage of the slight bend in the
Kald at that point.
Chunem (Reeve) [J5]
Inland of the river, Chunem is also held by a reeve
and consists of only 440 acres. However, they are
fertile ones, and those fields not needed to feed
the village itself are devoted to flax, bringing in a
Nebrem (Sir Turphet Haurnal) [J4] significant cash payment every harvest.
Nebrem, a manor of 1450 acres, benefits from its position
near the Kald River for its pleasant pastures and verdant
woodland. Sir Turphet, a knight who will be 100 at his
next birthday, has outlived three wives, all his children
save for one daughter, and several of his grandchildren.
His heir is his 22 year old great-grandson and namesake,
who is presently seeking a wife from amongst the eligible
ladies of the shire. Some believe he plans to sample what
each of them has to offer before making a choice, and
more than one manor lord wants to keep the young rake
at arm’s length. He is presently providing feudal service
at Baseta, and is not averse to honing his craft in the
town. Nebrem has lost two to the murderer. Stybrin (Sir Cedfer Yalcuthy) [J5]
Note: For this manor, see Stybrin by Kerry Mould available
from Lythia.com.
Rhustan (Sir Upfer Esomar, Bailiff) [J5]

This manor in the Nelefayn Hundred controls over 2500
acres – 1540 at Rhustan alone – of prime fertile land. Sir Watanish (Sir Emert Jarquane) [J5]
Upfer chafes at being only the bailiff of such a fief, and The only holding of Baseta in the Ambarnis Hundred,
often agitates at Baseta to be granted Rhustan outright. Watanish is held by Sir Emert Jarquane, an uncouth
Sir Upfer is not intelligent enough to realize that he is adventurer of dubious origin. Arriving a few years ago
both irritating Sir Eres who has no authority to grant in the manor of 1200 acres, he somehow managed to
anything like that and providing the Constable with the seduce the previous lord’s only daughter, and married her,
BASETA 17
some say against her father’s will. That worthy knight succumbed not long
after to a mysterious ailment, and Sir Emert quickly marshaled his arms
of sable, three otters argent with his dead father-in-law’s arms. The Acorn
King of Arms in Tashal had no record of Sir Emert’s achievement, but took
his word that he had received them abroad. Few see his wife nowadays and
many of the young girls of the village do everything they can to avoid Sir ★
Emert’s eye. The Constable does not care for the situation, and has accepted
scutage in lieu of service. Even then, it is rarely paid in a timely fashion. Sir
Eres is concerned that he may need to take action.
MESELYNESHIRE PARTIAL MAP SHOWING Baseta

BASETA, ITS MANORS, AND ENVIRONS Location: Kingdom of Kaldor [J4]
Holder: Constable Eres Tereneth
Liege: Earl of Vemion
Population: 660
RELATED PRODUCTS
• Kingdom of Kaldor (COL #5610)
• Atlas Hârnica Map J4
(COL #5000-J4)
• Atlas Hârnica Map J5
(COL #5000-J5)
• City of Tashal (COL #5611)
• Gardiren Castle (COL#5623)
• Kiban Castle (COL#5628)
• Minarsas Castle (COL#5634)
• Olokand Castle (COL#5618)
• Qualdris Castle (COL#5638)
• Caleme Abbey (COL#5644)
• Esenor Keep (COL#5624)
• Heru Keep (COL#5639)
• Silver Way (COL#5895)
• Guthe Bridge (COL #5896)
• Tontury Lake (COL#5893)
• Oselbridge (COL#5651)
• HârnMaster Barbarians
(COL#4761E)
• Related fan-produced material can
be downloaded from Lythia.com.
Scale: 1 hex = 5 Hârnic leagues (12.5 miles)
BASETA 18 PLAYER MAP

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BASETA 1

2 BONDING HOUSE 8 METALSMITH

4 THE RED SWAN INN (Rek of Stritt) 10 MILLER

5 TOLL BOOTH 11 HIDEWORKER

GATEHOUSE [2] Roof: The only access to the interior of the

Feron (Sir Saran Varela, Bailiff) [J5]

Ansteedon (Sir Aekris Tarandin, Bailiff) [J4]

Kerk (Sir Endel Napaldy) [J5]

Rhustan (Sir Upfer Esomar, Bailiff) [J5]

MESELYNESHIRE PARTIAL MAP SHOWING Baseta

Scale: 1 hex = 5 Hârnic leagues (12.5 miles)

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