Citadel Gheradesca

Citadel Gheradesca, headquarters of the Order of the Chain.

Citadel Gheradesca is the headquarters of the feared Hellknight Order of the Chain. Located near the Chelaxian city of Corentyn on a small spit of land connected to the mainland only at low tide, the citadel is thought to be Avistan's most secure prison. The Order of the Chain gladly holds any prisoners rightfully sentenced to jail by a government.

It can be accessed only during low tide, as there are jagged rocks and supposedly sea monsters that feed on the prison's dead. Potential invaders must climb wet, sharp stone stairs that wind up the outside of the island and overlook cliffs of the same jagged rocks that are under the waters. This is the only path up the island and is riddled with locations perfect for ambushes or hidden guard posts.

The prison part of the citadel is said to delve not only into the earth but also under the waves of the ocean surrounding the island. The lowest levels have special cells for more powerful prisoners that have been developed over many decades, and might house powerful creatures that must be caged as well as imprisoned. Some have unusual layouts, such as aquatic terrariums or enchanted game boards. Each is designed to house a specific type of prisoner.

Notable inmates

• Tenir Coppen, a Nidalese rebel
• The Foresworn, a graveknight of the Order of the Thorn
• Lady Scalpel, a marilith surgeon