Geography
The Kingdom Ardellis stands out as a unbiased monarchy and sports an unique diversity resulting from the assimilation of multiple cultures into its social fabric over the course of many centuries.
The main city is Caeloth. It enterprises in wheat and cattle but what really grabs attention are the mechanical gadgets crafted by their renowned Constructors; this might explain why its favored by the wealthier nations nearby. Over the decades, in Caeloth cityscape has been graced by several renowned artisans known as Constructors whose masterpieces have sparked a newfound love for this art form and reeled in a surplus of political tribute and foreign dignitaries all looking to acquire something unique.
Constructors in Caeloth work with metals and unique materials to create inventions that have a touch of magic to them – these contraptions can be seen throughout the city streets in forms and sizes. For instance; small spherical objects resembling metal orbs serve as signals while lamp posts adorned with Firlight – a metallic substance that emits light through wispy formations at night – illuminate the pathways with a gentle glow thus earning the city its famous moniker "the Twilight City". Constructors and their creations are mainly confined within the city limits of Caeloth. Are not commonly found elsewhere.
Despite the esoteric allure of Caeloth city its younger counterpart, the port city of Aerith, attracts the most travellers and is considered to be among the bustling cities in existence. Located along the River Run Aerith is linked to a system of rivers and streams that provide access to various countries that are otherwise hard to reach, even extending to the farthest reaches of the Mapped 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
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 weeks journey inland.
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.
Location and Geography
Nestled among gentle, rolling hills, Haven is bordered by dense 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 often adorned with colorful banners and intricate carvings which portray the creative skills of local artisans. These streets are well-trodden by both locals and visitors, weaving through Haven’s bustling heart before extending into the surrounding wilderness.
As one of the kingdom’s oldest crossroads towns, Haven predates even the great city of Aerith. Its distant history, largely lost to time, lingers in scattered relics and whispered stories, subtle tributes to the complex roots that may have once defined its foundations.
Haven lies between Aerith to the east, the bustling trade center of the Kingdom, 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.
Culture and Community:
The townsfolk are known for their hospitality, often welcoming travelers Local taverns serve hearty meals and ale brewed from unique regional ingredients. Festivals celebrating the town’s rich history attract visitors from afar with 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.