Geography

The only politically neutral monarchy in the Mapped World, Ardellis sports an unique diversity that has manifested through the integration of various cultures into its society over the span of centuries.

The capital is Caeloth, often called the Twilight City. It enterprises in wheat and cattle, but the true lure of its trade lays in semi-mechanical contraptions created by its famous Constructors, which may account for some of its popularity amongst the wealthier neighbouring countries. In the last few decades, Caeloth has been home to more than a few famous Constructors, whose creations have created a bloom of appreciation for the so called artform, and reeled in a surplus of political tribute and foreign dignitaries all looking to acquire something unique.

Constructors work with metals and special ores to forge pseudo-magical inventions. Contraptions of all kinds are nearly commonplace on the streets of Caeloth, Examples range from small, metal-like orbs which act as alarm signals, More commonly encountered in the streets of Caeloth are are lamp posts within the containing Firlight, a greenish conglomerate of metallic, wisp-like shapes which swirl around and produce light at night, harmless to the touch. Constructors and their constructs are rarely encountered outside of the city of Caeloth.

Despite the esoteric allure of Caeloth, its younger sibling, Aerith, hosts the most visitors in the country, possibly one of the busiest cities in the Known World. Situated on the River Run, it is connected to an intricate network of tributaries and rivers that lead through several countries otherwise difficult to reach and even to the furthest corners of the Known World.

Due to the political neutral policy of the kingdom of Ardellis and its accessibility, the appeal of Aerith to foreign dignitaries, travelers, and tradesmen is understated.

With its bustling harbor, Aerith is a central hub for trade, drawing diplomats, foreign nobles, exotic goods, and traders from far and wide. The city’s reputation as a place of new beginnings attracts refugees and those seeking a fresh start. Yet, beneath its welcoming allure, Aerith holds a darker side. Foreign outlaws, smugglers, and other shadowed figures move among its vibrant streets, blending into society and adding a subtle tension to its otherwise lively atmosphere.

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Pre-Alpha will take place in the town of Haven. Alpha will take place in Aerith.

The small town of Haven lies to the west of Aerith, a few days' journey inland from those bustling harbors .

Haven is an ancient town that has historically served as a vital route between the capital of Caeloth to the far north, and the great trade hub of the city of Aerith. Known as the 'Crossroads Town,' it has long been a gathering place for travellers and merchants whose goods prefer the slower inland route between the two great cities of Ardyllis.

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Location and Geography

Nestled among gentle, rolling hills, Haven is bordered by dense, verdant forests that serve as both a resource and a potential hazard for its inhabitants. The town’s layout centers around a bustling square, with cobblestone streets branching out through charming rows of timber-framed buildings adorned with colorful banners and intricate carvings. These streets are well-trodden by both locals and visitors, weaving through Haven’s vibrant heart before extending into the surrounding wilderness.

As one of the kingdom’s oldest crossroads towns, Haven predates even the great city of Aerith, and ancient, crumbling roads stretch from its edges toward desolate, ruined lands to the west. This historic town lies between Aerith to the east, the bustling trade center, and Caeloth, the distant northern capital. Connecting these two hubs by land, Haven is accustomed to a steady flow of merchants, travelers, and curious wanderers—often bringing with them stories of strange events and rare treasures.

Haven’s position as a major stop along this route has embedded a unique resilience in its culture, accustomed as its people are to both opportunity and unpredictability. This atmosphere, combined with its surroundings, fosters an ever-present sense of mystery and history, shaping Haven as a place where the old and the new connect.

Culture and Community:

The townsfolk are known for their hospitality, often welcoming travelers with open arms. Local taverns serve hearty meals and ale brewed from unique regional ingredients. Festivals celebrating the town’s rich history attract visitors from afar, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts.

Economy:

Due to its geographical advantages, Haven serves as a key stop for transporting delicate and perishable items that are better suited for land transport, primarily between the cities of Caeloth and Aerith. The town’s unique economic edge comes from its access to Lake Lyss, famous for producing rare pearls that are highly prized in distant markets.

Recent Developments

Recently, a catastrophic storm has cut off the route and river to Aerith and Caeloth, all of which are now blocked with debris and fallen trees, effectively isolating the town.

The storm has not only blocked the route to Aerith and Caeloth but has also caused damage within Haven itself. Some buildings sustained minor damage, and local crops are threatened by flooding. The community is facing a growing sense of urgency, as supplies dwindle and the once-bustling market becomes eerily quiet.

Town leaders have called for volunteers to assist in clearing the debris and repairing damaged structures. A sense of camaraderie emerges among the townsfolk as they work together to restore their home. However, the isolation might still attract trouble, with rumors of bandits taking advantage of the disarray.

The Ancient Ruined Waygate

Outside Haven, a ruin is located in a secluded part of the nearby forest, accessible only by a hidden path known to a few locals. The structure is ancient, composed of intricately carved stone adorned with faded runes.

In the aftermath of the storm the once dormant gateway has become active, possibly due to a surge of magical energy released by the weather phenomenon. Townsfolk report hearing strange echoes or whispers near the ruins, and a shimmering portal has been seen fluctuating within the stone archway.

Since the waygate’s activation, whispers circulate among the people of Haven, with many claiming to sense a dark, intangible presence looming ever closer. This shadow, as they call it, seems to haunt the town, lingering in the minds of its residents as a foreboding omen. Some describe a subtle chill in the air, others swear by strange, fleeting visions at dusk, and a sense of unease grips the hearts of even the town’s most stoic citizens.

This fear weaves through the town, mingling with curiosity and trepidation as residents debate the nature of the waygate’s magic.

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