Samara

Samara is a remote military outpost in eastern Navarre, high in the Esben Mountains within Elsum Province, about one to two miles from the Poromish border where Krovla and Braevick meet. It is the easternmost outpost of the Southern Wing and lies roughly a day’s flight from Basgiath War College.

The surrounding terrain is severe and isolated, with snow-covered peaks even in summer. The nearest village is a half-hour flight away, and there are no trading posts within walking distance.

The fortress is built of dark-red stone and follows a layout similar to Athebyne and Montserrat, though it is twice as large. A stone ramp leads from a field of trampled grass to an arched entrance fitted with a spiked portcullis, guarded by two posted sentries. Outside the entrance, four stories up, hangs a cage that is occasionally occupied by infantry.

The barracks line the southern side of the fortress, while the infirmary sits to the right within the bailey. A southwestern staircase connects the barracks corridor to the upper levels.

Lieutenant Colonel Degrensi enforces a system where privileges—such as leave—must be fought for in the pit, reflecting Samara’s militarized culture of survival through strength.

After graduating, Xaden Riorson and Garrick Tavis are stationed at the Samara outpost, later joined by Mira Sorrengail. The outpost comes under attack from gryphon fliers, during which Xaden is wounded but later healed. A second assault follows after many rider cadets defect to the Revolution, prompting Mira and several other riders to join the cause as well.

General Melgren later uses his foresight signet to foresee a battle between the Navarrian military and the venin at Samara on the solstice. His vision shows Navarre losing the fight and the ward falling. As a result, Melgren and much of the Navarrian army are positioned at Samara when the Battle of Basgiath begins.

Barracks	The southern wing of the fortress, housing riders and infantry. Lower levels include armories and access to sublevels.
Fighting Pit	A subterranean arena carved into the stone foundation, where riders must spar to earn leave. Its bloodstained dirt floor and iron rungs emphasize its brutal, utilitarian purpose.
Armory	Stocked with weapons, including alloy daggers used to boost wards.
Operations Center	The nerve center of the outpost, staffed around the clock for military coordination.
Sparring Gym & Bathing Chamber	A compact training space with mage-lit mats and wooden targets. The adjoining bathing chamber features stone-lined spouts and aqueduct-fed water, resembling Basgiath’s facilities but far less refined.
Xaden Riorson’s Room	Located on the third floor, Xaden’s quarters are sparse and warded for privacy. They contain standard furnishings, shelves of books, weapons, and a concealed bathing chamber.