History

Built at the outset of the Azure's Tide Conflict, Hoolwatch Tower was established by the Kingdom of Keoland as a forward military outpost. During the early stages of the war, there were growing fears that the Sea Princes would bypass naval blockades by navigating the Hool Marshes and launching surprise attacks across inland routes. Perched atop a natural rise northeast of Saltmarsh, the tower served as the town’s eyes and ears—its first line of defense against invasion.

Today, the tower functions as both an armory and the primary watchpoint for Saltmarsh. As the tallest structure in town, it offers commanding views over the Hool Marshes, the Dreadwood’s edge, the Kingfisher River, and the Burle trade road. From this high vantage, the town guard keeps constant watch for threats ranging from goblin warbands and bandit raiders to strange lights in the fog-choked marsh.

The tower also serves as Saltmarsh’s official job board—adventuring tasks, bounty notices, and militia recruitment are posted on a weathered wooden board just outside the main entrance.

At least one guard is always stationed in the upper levels of the tower, maintaining round-the-clock surveillance of the surrounding wilds.

Captain Eliander Fireborn, when not attending to matters of the Saltmarsh town council, often retreats to the tower. While his presence is part of his official duty, it is also personal—he finds solace and purpose within the tower’s stone walls. A veteran of more recent border conflicts, Fireborn quietly misses the clarity and camaraderie of active military service. He regularly organizes expeditions into the Hool Marshes and Dreadwood, both to confront real threats and to maintain cohesion among the town guard.

Each success—whether clearing out a goblin den or uncovering a cult—boosts morale and serves as a reminder to the people of Saltmarsh that their defenders remain vigilant and vital.

Sergeant Tomas Rios, based at the Saltmarsh Barracks & Jail, is Fireborn’s trusted second-in-command. Tomas is responsible for setting the watch schedules, coordinating guard rotations, and posting job assignments. When Fireborn is away, Tomas takes full charge of the tower and liaises with the town militia. He splits his time between the tower and the barracks—those seeking official work will likely find him at one of the two.

The tower is staffed by a rotating schedule of guards, typically alternating duty between the watchtower and Saltmarsh’s main gate, keeping the garrison sharp and the town protected.