Southland: Darwin

THE SOUTHLAND

A Fantasy Core Setting

© Jerry Harris 2014

Published here as Open Game Content.

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Darwin

Situated in a dense, but beautiful tropical region, Darwin was originally a Gold Rush outpost, but the large presence of Humanoids in the area quickly ran off most of the prospectors.  That would have been the end of it, but for the twin discoveries of large quantities Philosopher’s Stone and diamonds also in the area.  Commonwealth authorities, seeing the potential valuable of the deposits and wanting a solid northern stake to their continental claim, swiftly brought in a military force and formally established the outpost as the town of Darwin.

This town is still in the magical fallout zone and is thus in constant peril from Humanoid tribes.  It’s been overrun and destroyed twice.  However, its proximity to the Ranger Philosopher’s Stone Mine, the Argyle Diamond Mine, and even some gold deposits has always insured Darwin’s continued existence and human habitation.  The property is simply too valuable.  If the Humanoids could be convinced to engage in trade, the Commonwealth would be more than happy to simply pay whatever for their goods.  The Humanoid’s near mindless aggression combined with human greed has made this a continually volatile region.  

As is, the Hobgoblins, Goblins, and Orcs won’t be dislodged from their lairs with anything short of a full-scale military invasion, which the Commonwealth isn’t prepared to do.  Merchants have had to content themselves with raids and some quick, temporary mining operations that are inevitably destroyed.  Even the expense of the destruction and staffing at hazard pay prices is still easily offset by the wealth generated.

There are constant supply issues to Darwin.  The main overland route actually goes through Alice Springs, as the more direct path is far too dangerous.  The sea route has to go near the Great Barrier Reef and the Gillmen.  The need for men and materials in the town is insatiable.  The recurring Humanoid attacks make the position all the more tenuous.  Darwin always looks very temporary and on the verge of collapse, but somehow perseveres.       

This town has a significant population of workers from the Oriental Empire.  The bottomless need for near fearless laborers has ensured that the Commonwealth merchants aren’t going to be picky about where they come from.  More than a possible route to riches for the workers, this is actually part of an orchestrated policy by the Empire.  Leadership has determined that this town is the most exploitable (and valuable) weakness in the Commonwealth colony.  The next step in the plan is to introduce Imperial forces, brought in as mercenaries, to bolster the town’s security.  So far, the town leadership has rebuffed any foreign troop offers, as per Governor-General Bligh’s orders.  But, given the wealth involved in the area and the danger, it may just be a matter of time.