WAY-STATIONS AND THE CARAVAN ROAD
In order to facilitate trade with Shadar and the Jorak Mountain communities, the Kings of Kotharia rebuilt an ancient road and placed caravan way-stations along the route.
The road itself is well paved and maintained, and is wide enough for two of the largest cargo wagons to pass each other in opposite directions without difficulty. There is a stop every day's travel between Polychronopolis and Shadar City. The stops include Castle Dyr, Fotress Poltron, Road Moot and the 8 way stations, all listed and linked below in order. The trip from Polychronopolis to Shadar is 12 days, from Polychronopolis to Gormling is 10 days.
The way stations are standardized. Each has the following:
- A natural water source and a large cistern.
- Fortified garrison for 20 crossbowmen to defend the station, and for 20 horsemen to base road patrols.
- A barracks and barn for a 20-man road crew tasked with maintaining a stretch of the road.
- Stables for the garrison horses, and a large corral area, with some lean-to roofing to hold traveler's beasts.
- An inn and tavern for travelers
- A small supply store, usually mostly with provisions and caravan supplies.
- At least 1 blacksmith.
The station is commanded by a King's Agent and assisted by the garrison captain. The entire road system is commanded by the Warden of the Road, based at Fortress Poltron.
Shopping at the Way Stations: the stations will sell provisions, packs, containers, harnesses, arrows/bolts, knives, spears, shields and other caravan related gear. There's a 75% chance they will have 1d4 horses and 1d6 mules for sale. Each station has a blacksmith who can repair metal objects.