Aspenshade
The focal point of Aspenshade, and probably all of Aspenshield is the Crystal Palace, the home of the Crystal Queen. It glows dimly or brightly depending on the mood of the Crystal Queen, and if it is dark in hue everyone knows to keep their distance. The power that radiates from the palace can be felt throughout most of Aspenshade.
In addition to the palace is the Pool of Tolos, a sacred pool of the Avariel. Nobles and pious visitors are often seen at its banks, or entreating the priests who maintain it to provide some water. Places to sit and contemplate surround the pool and the area and are often filled with Elves at varying hours of the day.
Finally, a few noble houses are also given leave by the Crystal Queen to stay in the Aspenshade. The nobles houses were also original Avariel buildings that the Queen has gifted to her loyal and prestigious champions.
Along with her family, the Crystal Twins Alyis and Aryis, her daughter and heir to her throne Alyra, and her youngest son Atynis, the Crystal Queen rules from the centre of the city. The palace was an original building from the time of the Avariel and the Crystal Queen’s home back when the city floated. It is well-adorned with all manner of crystals and gems, and is constantly thrumming with power. The Crystal Queen takes much of her power from the Avariel buildings, including her palace, and while she is in Aspenshield her control over the area is absolute. She has created an idyllic place for her people and takes her role as protector of Aerith, particularly Starhelm very seriously. Her throne room is spectacular, bright, and cold, and reflects her personality perfectly. She will always listen to her people, regardless of station, but she does not take to idle arguments. She likes to be given information and then the time to come up with her solution. She does not hold advisor quarters, or places for outsiders to gather in her palace but there are some buildings in the Aspenshade that are reserved for that purpose.
The Pool of Tolos is a sacred pool that contains perpetually replenishing water. It is a hold over from the days of the Avariel and is special to the Crystal Queen. It is maintained by the priests of Zayphos from the nearby temple and the clarity and purity of the water is never diminished. No swimming can take place in the pool but people can come to gather some water, or sit and rest near its clear, cool stillness. Typically, the water is used for holy purposes or cleansing rituals but there are many other uses of the water. The priests ensure that the privilege of receiving the waters from Tolos does not get abused.
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