Southland: Alice Springs

THE SOUTHLAND

A Fantasy Core Setting

© Jerry Harris 2014

Published here as Open Game Content.

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Alice Springs

“The Alice,” as it’s called by the locals is the most dangerous post in the Commonwealth.  This settlement was placed far inland, in the center of the continent, no where near any of the rest of the colonial settlements.  Further, it is smack in the middle of several pilgrimage and major living sites of the Humanoids (and worse monsters). 

Against all recommendations from those who knew the Outback, the Alice Springs outpost was established by the Emperor’s direct order.  The reasons for this haven’t been forthcoming, so speculation is rampant.  This is a military outpost.  The associated town is simply there to supply the troops.  There’s no industry, and the initial rumors of the gold in the area were a rouse to draw in more settlers.  However, many of the town’s rumors swirl around the possibility that there’s something even more valuable in the area. 

Alice Springs contains the largest garrison and is the most fortified position in the Southland.  It is attacked nightly and daily by Humanoid forces, like waves crashing on breakers.  The outpost is still standing only because the attacks are so disorganized.  (Indeed, the Humanoids have even been observed fighting one another for the right to be the next to attack.)  Most of the troops here are in the Frontier Service, along with a regiment of Regular Army (two battalions).  Rangers are continuously patrolling outside the outpost.  Marine units have also been dispatched, escorting deliveries to the fort and conducting raids from it.  This mix of services is usually volatile, but here, there’s no time for such nonsense. 

This area is viable farm and ranch land, something of a large oasis in the middle of the desert.  It has been developed out of necessity as re-supply of the outpost is only via a very long, dangerous treks from Brisbane and Adelaide.  The farmers and ranchers have learned to accept some losses, but they’re paid well by government contract.  There’s a host of other services needed that keep civilians well employed.  Adventurers and prospectors also straggle in in good numbers, looking for treasure in the area. 

Camels would be very useful in the Outback, but are hard to come by for the Commonwealth.  There is a small herd of them in Alice Springs.  They’re still in training for combat and not enough for a full company.  The most anticipated event of the year is the Camel Cup race conducted by the best jockeys in the force.  Even the Humanoids relent to watch and make bets amongst themselves.