Citadel of Warburg
The Citadel of Warburg is a large fortified complex that protects the village of Warburg in Eastern Batavia. The Citadel is one of the most closed and secure places in Batavia. It is home to the Holy Order of the Temple of Cato, an ancient mystical order. It is almost impossible for outsiders to enter the Citadel, and this description is based on ancient records, as well as recent attempts by adventurers to enter the castle.
Outer Citadel
The gates in the outside walls of the Citadel are closely watched, only members of the Order are allowed in without guards. The Gate Hall is located near the Black Gate, the largest gate of the Citadel, and it is the only part of the fortress where citizens are allowed. The Gate Hall is the place where the residents of Warburg can inform the Knights of the Order of their issues and wishes. A member of the Order is always present to listen to the requests, and, after a very careful examination and selection, pass them through to the Council of Twelve.
Inner Citadel
There are three inner levels in the Citadel. The first level can be reached immediatly through the Gate Hall and is by far the largest one. It is here where the lower members of the Order have their Quarters. Monks, Pages, Servants and the Footfolk. Their status of the order is that of 'Audiutor' and is a rank below that of Knight. Stables, granaries, bakeries and storage rooms can also be found in the first level.
The second level is the domain of the Knights of the Order. The level is reached through the Knight's Gate, which is said to be as wide as four wagons next to each other. Their exact number is unknown, since those who have reached the rank of Knight maintain a secret, and secluded lifestyle. Their quarters are slightly larger than that of the Audiutor, but are furnished in a modest, almost spartan, way. This is to ensure that the Knights will not be tempted by worldly posessions. Service to the Order is their only duty, and a duty to which they have dedicated their lives to.
The passage from the second level to the third level is guarded by the Iron Tower. The tower is the most impressive feature of the citadel and stands an impressive 250 foot tall. The tower is made of black stone, which gives the Citadel a rather grim and impregnable look. The Iron Tower is closely guarded.
The third level is the level where the Council of Twelve have their chambers. Nobody knows what their quarters look like, simply because all the servants working in the third level are blind, deaf or dumb. Often all three. It is known that somewhere inside the third level the Council of Twelve meet, in the Black Hall. This hall is said to be one of the most impressive chambers ever made by men. The throne of the Grand Master is made of pure silver and the chairs of the other Knights are decorated with their personal arms in silver inlay. This is the inner sanctum of the Order.
