Behold the majestic yet mysterious fortress of Törzburg, also known as Bran Castle. It is located in Transylvania, just outside of the city of Brasov and very near the border with Wallachia, seemingly precariously perched atop a towering and steep cliff, and filled to the brim with dark and winding corridors and passageways. The first castle in this location was built by the knights of the Teutonic Order during the 13th century. However, it was destroyed by the Mongols shortly thereafter. The current castle was originally constructed between 1377 and 1388 by the city of Brasov. Contrary to popular belief, Vlad the Impaler (who was Prince of Wallachia and lived between 1431 and either 1476 or 1477; or so we think), never lived here. Nevertheless, this place has a forboding and perhaps otherworldly air.
Currently it is the late Elizabethan era, around the time of the Spanish Armada. The Principality of Transylvania is a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire, though it is essentially fully autonomous by de facto. As a result of the 1568 "Edict of Torda", Transylvania is one of the most religiously tolerant societies in Europe, despite the attempts of the Hapsburgs to force it to return back to the Roman Catholic Church. For example, Unitarianism, a nontrinitarian offshoot of Protestant Christianity that may have also been influenced slightly by Islam, began here in Transylvania. Unitarianism is considered heretical by most other churches, and it has aroused suspicions in virtually all established religions. Nevertheless, Jasper, a precocious and inquisitive little prince who seems different from the rest and has a great love for knowledge and books (as well as puppies and kittens), is known to be a Unitarian, much to the chagrin of the courtly circles. Prince Jasper is the youngest child in his family, the only boy, and the only non-magical person. Mother and father (a populist who planned to end serfdom and feudalism and redistribute the lands of his vassals to the people who work them) both have died in mysterious freak "accidents".
Prince Jasper does not normally live here at Bran Castle/ Törzburg, as he much prefers his serene and secluded "ivory tower", located deep within the dark evergreen forests of the Carpathians. However, his regent will often
Enough background information, you (a foreign visitor or dignitary) have arrived at the gates of Bran Castle/ Törzburg. Please identify yourself to the captain of the guard. Have you brought a gift for the prince?
