Arcaster
Albion’s largest city, second only to Camelot, is a subject too great for a guide of this nature. An entire book could be dedicated to the city. This guide can only offer the most basic overview.
There has been a settlement at the mouth of the River Tane since records began. This is hardly surprising as the sea and the river are rich in fish, the surrounding woods provide timber and the abundance of stone provides ample material for the sturdiest architecture. In Arcaster’s earliest days it was a home to both men and Dwarrow. The Dwarrow architecture can still be seen in the city’s impressive harbour, the mighty walls and some of the ancient parts of the Duke’s Palace. The Dwarrow city was abandoned by its occupants and converted into the most extensive sewer system in Albion. The sewers contain some magnificent examples of Dwarrow-craft but they cannot be recommended to the casual traveller. Arcaster’s sewers are sometimes home to unpleasant and dangerous creatures although the problem is kept under control by the Guild of Hunters.
The University of Arcaster can be visited by travellers who have sufficient time to apply to the Bursar and await a reply. For a modest fee, a Scholar will guide the traveller through the libraries, lecture halls, laboratories and summoning chambers. Of particular note are the recently renovated observatory and the small but well-maintained museum.
The city houses numerous Guild buildings. Travellers with links to a profession are advised to contact the relevant Guild in order to find excellent lodgings.
Arcaster is a thriving city and offers numerous opportunities for the earning and spending of money. The docks are the city’s main source of wealth, bringing both food and commerce to Arcaster. Some trading takes place at the docks themselves but the casual visitor would be wise to visit the market in Sir Bran’s Square. The Square is home to the market and many excellent shops. For travellers with sufficient coin, reliable guides and carriages can be hired in the Square.
Although Arcaster’s Guards are excellent at keeping the city peaceful, the traveller is warned not to visit the Threepenny Lanes area. The Lanes are the city’s poorest quarter and have, for many years, been troubled by a criminal element. Dukes and Duchesses have, for years, done their best to control the more lawless areas of the Lanes but there are still places where it is inadvisable for the innocent to walk.
Any visit to Arcaster should include a tour of the Cathedral. Saint Beowulf’s Cathedral is the city’s tallest building and, to the surprise of many, it was constructed without the assistance of the Dwarrow. The Cathedral is a powerful force in the city, offering alms to the poor and healing for the sick. The Priests are extremely hospitable and there are do not charge for their services. Donations are gratefully received.
