 |
|
|
The Free City of Haven
Haven is a thriving port city on the Azure sea, located at the juncture of three mighty realms; The Grand Duchy of Tys Ygithir to the Northwest, The Kingdom of Eastgard to the southeast, and the High Elven realm of Tir Ardonae to the northeast. Across the western Azure sea is the Island of Aquinas and south are the ports of Istandar.
HISTORY:
Haven was founded shortly after the fall of the Human Vilani Imperium 1200 years ago on the newly created shore of the Azure sea. Originally created as a base camp for King Odovaker's abortive invasion of the Aquinian Isle, it later developed into a major port city. Despite a brief occupation 800 years ago by the Dominar Nyssus of Aquinas and his legions, Haven has been more valuable as a trade city instead of a prize to be fought over by the various nations that surround it. It serves the needs of all races and countries as an independent city-state ruled by the Overlord Krager and is careful to avoid entangling alliances.
Layout:
The city is walled, with a inner castle (The Sanctuary) where the Overlord and his government live and do business in the city. haven has 2 gates; the Argent Serpent Gate at the Northeast and the Sable Serpent Gate at the southeast. The port facilities are extensive and usually not very corrupt.
The quarters of the city are divided amongst the following:
Hermes's Ground: The merchant area, with the palatial Temple of Hermes, patron god of Haven, in its center. This is the center of the city and by far the largest quarter. The ground is full of shops selling all types of non-magical wares.
Gold, Silver, & Copper: These are the residential districts according to status. Copper is closest to the Westwind port.
Aventia: Next to the Elven quarter, this area is the location of temples of various pantheons.
Red Lantern : This quarter is the location of many middle to lower class taverns, gambling halls, & prostitution. Also contains the Gladius Maximus, the area for gladiatorial fights & other sporting events.
Westwind: This quarter is the port facilities, warehouses, and inns who serve the sea-faring clients. This area has a large Dwarven population.
Elven quarter: This quarter is verdant parkland, with a golden 15 foot fence & gate surrounding the area. The quarter is well guarded and interlopers are not appreciated. This area contains the dwelling of the Elven Consul and his staff.
Mage quarter: This area is dominated by the three Towers of the Guild- the tower of Air, the tower of fire, and the tower of water. There are small shops of minor sorcerers selling their skills below the towers but all must be sanctioned by the guild.
Military:
The Overlord keeps a standing force of mercenaries to guard the city walls and police the city itself. This force is well equipped and numbers about 2000. The Overlord also maintains a small fleet of 8 cogs and 2 Quadremes.
Thieve's Guild:
See Places of Interest Link
THE RELATIONS WITH THE EXARCHATE:
The Free City of Haven is nominally under the Exarchate of Aquinas, but in truth the rulership is a fiction. The Overlord of Haven pretends that he's appointed by the Exarch, and the Exarch never tries to appoint anyone other than whom the Haven Overlord wishes (usually the Overlord's heir). This fiction aids both realms in allowing greater trading markets and opportunities. If the Exarchate ever did try to exert true authority over Haven, they would doubtlessly face not only a rebellious haven but the Ostander states of Eastgard & Tys Ygithir and perhaps even Tir Ardonae. None of these realms wish to see a powerful Aquinian presence on the continent.
Back to Human Realms Page
Back to Kingdoms Page
Back to Aedenne Main Page
Send E-Mail to: sir_sieg@hotmail.com
Copyright © 2001 Michael Stewart. All Rights Reserved