Croston is still a frontier town, it is built inside a strong stockade and with regular wall patrols. Lord Croston, and his entourage, live inside a central compound that serves as a second line of defence. While the town is quite small, its population is boosted by small holdings and hamlets scattered around the hinterland, which supply some food and basic services to the community. For example, Barham is home to a sorcerer who can make magical equipment, while Flower Quay acts as the town's port - both hamlets are defended, although not as heavily defended as the town itself. Residents of the smallholdings have to make a dash for the security of the main town's stockade should there be an attack on the area.

Foragers in the marsh collect Samphire, Romeritos and Purslane (for their leaves that can be cooked), easy game such as Duck, Mussels, Crab and Eel and Reeds for thatching. Small holders grow a variety of fruits and vegetables and produce eggs and some goat's milk, while fisherfolk from Flower Quay bring in edible seaweeds and a variety of fish. Grain, Flour and most alcoholic drinks are imported, along with meat, metal, cloth, rope etc. Fish stew is the most common main-course meal in the region.