The Shield of Ord, Midfast is a city truly vital to the security of its nation. Situated at the most navigable pass between Merin and Khador, Midfast has spent centuries as a vital byway of trade and a critical choke-point denying northern aggression. This city has been the scene of numerous seiges, the most famous of which culminated with the ascencion of Markus, the Morrowan patron ascendant of soldiers. To this day, national defense is the primary concern of Midfast.

Home to over 100,000 souls, mostly Tordoran and Thurian, Midfast is the gateway to Ord for many Khadoran merchants; this is especially true since the start of the recent war and the closure of other trade routes. With increased Cryxian pirate activity and active war between Khador and Cygnar, the Western Tradeway is one of the most secure routes for international commerce. Caravans coming south through Midfast are under close scrutiny, but opportunities abound for canny Khardic merchants seeking new markets in these troubled times.

Midfast’s architecture is overwhelmingly stonework, favoring the Salo style with its characteristic shallow balconies and tile rooftops. Many of the older buildings in the Garrison Quarter bear the scars of numerous sieges, though maintenance crews have ever struggled to keep the street level immaculate. The plazas of Midfast are marked by numerous statues and memorials dedicated to the heroes of the Ordic military.

Of special note are the Tomb and Monastery of Ascendant Markus, and the Cathedral of the Valiant Martyrs. The monastery contains the horn, shield, and sword of Markus, and is notable as the only major Morrowan monastic community within a major city. The monks of Midfast are exceptionally zealous individuals dedicated to Markus, and gladly lend their services in manning the gates and wall.

The locals are known to be quite gregarious and drink to excess in the many public houses and winegardens throughout town. Musical theatre, games of chance, and a variety of traditional Tordoran sports are pastimes of the denizens of Midfast, especially a peculiar game involving the casting of darts at a leather ball called the Grapu. Most tavens in Midfast have a Grapu square in the back, where inebriated patrons trade wagers and drinks.

The industries of Midfast revolve around its location along a major trade route and nearby mineral resources. Exports of iron, tin, copper, and lead from its mines, and chemicals from its bustling Order of the Golden Crucible chapterhouse bring the city much of its wealth, though it must regularly import food and textiles. Due to the fickle nature of the Ordic national treasury, Lord Castellan Vascar constantly strives to keep the city self-sufficient, welcoming any assistance he can from his friend and political ally, King Baird.