2300 AD: Tanstaafl Nights - Mission 2 Infodump

The Mission: Investigate reports of Kafer activity around Mt. Westlich Feuer and unsubstantiated rumors of secondary Kafer landings on the “Western Plains” beyond the peak. If true, this would severely threaten Tanstaafl’s western flank and cut off the western communities of Region 3 altogether. The PC’s can travel halfway with a TFL convoy bound for Plateau, easing the fuel situation somewhat. At the devastated city of Westside, the PCs will turn west and travel alone 200km to Farside and another 200km to Caldera. Alternatively, they can travel 100km overland directly to Farside. The town is located on the east side of Westlich Feuer, an active volcano that supplies much of the town’s energy and mineral wealth. It is here that the reports of Kafer activity come from. Once there, the PC’s are to work with the local militia to determine the source of the stories and act accordingly. The mayor will be notified to expect the PC’s, but they have no special authority over local forces.

Area of Operation: Mt. Westlich Feuer (Mount Wesley to English speakers) is a shield volcano, about 100km wide, with a maximum height of 1500m. It is about 1000m about the surrounding terrain, with a distance to the horizon of about 120km. The west side of Mt. Westlich feuer is a largely rocky wilderness known as “Unheilsland” (Doomsland), descending into a badland of lava flows, tunnels, and isolated Broadtop forests. Vehicular travel is virtually impossible, and foot travel is difficult. Few locals travel here, save for the occasional hermits, explorers, and prospectors. Water at least is abundant thanks to many small ponds, lakes, and flooded cave systems. There are local stories that some of the larger predators in the badlands have been seen using primitive tools, but there are no verifiable official accounts.

The eastern slope hosts the town of Caldera and three small pit mines that drive the local economy. The population is 1,200, with a diverse age distribution ranging from children to seniors. Most residents are of European American descent, while there is also a significant Hispanic/Latino and Gujarati presence. The town's economy relies heavily on the mining industry, with many residents employed in mining-related occupations. The town is known for its friendly, tight-knit community and celebrates its mining heritage through events like the annual Vanadium Festival and recreational activities such as hiking and fishing. A historical museum also pays tribute to its mining history. There is a standing militia of about 65 people.