Notes on the Candlelight Sea - The Shieldfort

The Shieldfort is the southwestern headquarters of the Royal Marine Navy, established upon the rocky beaches of the volcanic Pawikan archipelago. Represented by a sea turtle, its trainees specialize in defensive warfare, focusing on protection over brute-force attacks. On the water, their ocean blockades have aided many a delicate arms shipment or quiet harbor town in need of safety. On land, their deft martial arts can subdue and disarm opponents with ease, causing as little bodily harm as possible.

Known as the least warlike of the three branches of the navy, the Shieldfort is deepy intertwined with one of the most ancient structures on the sea - the sprawling Honu’ea Monastery. Built amongst the red tunnels of an extinct shield volcano, its monks continue ancient spiritual traditions that predate the Fracture. The monastery’s vineyards produce fine wines from rich volcanic soil, and its talented blacksmiths forge artisan shields and armor for all those who would defend the Mother Goddess. A particular branch of the caverns is home to the Shieldfort Museum – a collection of priceless artifacts from before the Fracture, even some items from the accursed Bone Church. In the famous Shieldfort Dojo, wise masters instruct naval recruits in precise hand-to-hand combat, taking care to instill a deep appreciation for all living things.

The people of the Shieldfort and its surrounding islands are famous for their rampant optimism, gracious hospitality, and peaceful temperaments. While the Plume Church is infamous for electing high priestesses from areas closer to St. Gourami and the Saberfort, many a kind Honu’ea mother superior has risen up to become the spokeswoman of Cheline herself – including the current holder of the title, the honorable Lady Halea Haumea.