Crimson Citadel
Overview
The Crimson Citadel, once known as Ravens Hold, stands as a towering symbol of Castlemere’s turbulent political legacy. Perched atop the city's highest hill, it dominates the skyline with its imposing dark stone spires and crimson banners—a stark reminder of the bloody war that reshaped the kingdom.
History
Originally built as the ancestral seat of the Ravencrest family, Ravens Hold was a bastion of austere governance and noble power. House Ravencrest ruled Castlemere with calculated precision and ruthless authority for generations, until the outbreak of the Castlemere War.
During this bloody civil conflict, Narri Castlereagh led a successful campaign to seize the throne. The siege of Ravens Hold marked a turning point in the war, ending with the fall of House Ravencrest and the rise of House Castlereagh. In the aftermath, the fortress was renamed the Crimson Citadel to honor the bloodshed and victory.
Architecture
The Crimson Citadel is a formidable structure:
- Spirework: Towering spires of obsidian-hued stone rise above Castlemere, now flying the deep crimson banners of House Castlereagh.
- Siege Scars: Its outer walls still bear the blackened marks of fire and the heavy reinforcement of once-crumbling battlements.
- Gatehouse: The main gates, once adorned with the silver raven of Ravencrest, now display the sigil of House Castlereagh—a crimson lion rampant on a field of obsidian.
Inside, the citadel has undergone a dramatic transformation. The once somber halls draped in the velvets of Ravencrest now shine with the vibrant colors of the new regime. The throne room, a jewel of the citadel, is lined with crimson and gold, representing Empress Narri Castlereagh’s dominion.
Current Use
The Crimson Citadel now serves as:
- The royal residence of Empress Narri Castlereagh
- The seat of government for the ruling House Castlereagh
- A military command center and administrative hub for the city
Rumors and Legends
Despite the outward transformation, the citadel retains echoes of its shadowed past:
- Secret Passages: Ancient tunnels, believed to have been constructed by House Ravencrest, are said to still snake through the lower levels of the fortress.
- Hauntings: Locals whisper of ghosts and vengeful spirits that wander its stone corridors—remnants of those lost during the siege.
- Political Intrigue: The citadel remains a hotbed of espionage, shifting loyalties, and whispered threats, as rival factions keep a watchful eye on the throne.
Symbolism
The Crimson Citadel stands as both a monument to victory and a warning to future rulers. Its walls tell a story of ambition, betrayal, and blood—reminding all who enter that power in Castlemere is never absolute, and that thrones are never truly secure.