From the Introduction:
Castle Triskelion is a centuries old structure and the ancestral home of a wealthy and eccentric noble family, the Triskelions. Strangely enough, as well as being a residence, the Triskelions used the property as a prison for those many unfortunates who through ill-luck or crime aroused the anger of the inhabitants.
The Triskelions ruled the neighboring territory as virtual despots, being by far the most powerful force in the region. The members of the Triskelion family were noted wizards and the local peasantry viewed them with superstitious dread. Following the collapse of the Jalluxian Empire several centuries ago, there arose many small and weak kingdoms: Fribourg, Sarcoy, Seals, and Wolhusen, among others. These monarchs were not capable of enforcing their will on the Triskelions, and indeed wished to avoid angering them altogether. Thus the Triskelions were free to engage in their mysterious pursuits unhindered.
In addition to their levies on the peasants, the Triskelions imported food and other raw resources into the castle in exchange for rare crafted items and expertly made tools. About three years ago, villagers from the nearby hamlet of Fostergaunt noticed that the merchants who had gone to trade with The Castle failed to return. An expedition was commissioned by the town elders and went to explore the cause. When the members of the expedition arrived at The Castle they found it dark and neglected. After seeing what was pinned to the wall at the main gate, they decided not to continue investigating.
Some cataclysm. Some horrid spell or experiment gone wrong must have caused this quick and utter fall. Without witnesses to speak of the event, the curious will have to explore The Castle themselves to find out the truth.
Since that time, bandits and other less savory things have stalked the vicinity of The Castle. Many brave bands of adventurers have sought their fortunes. Some returned with vast wealth, but most failed to return at all.
