White Crest

"Its like something pushing on a screen door, trying to get in." Hypolite Kropotkin

White Crest is a large city on the west coast of the United States. It occupies a river delta in a valley in northern Oregon where two rivers run into the Pacific Ocean. It is the largest deep water port in Oregon and the 4th largest on the west coast. It is notorious as the weirdest (or Wyrdest) city on the planet, overflowing with strange happenings, odd occurrences and the makings of urban legends for the world over.

Aspects

Always Raining

Wyrdness capital of the world

Something beneath the surface

A sprawling metropolis located at the confluence of two rivers, where they meet the vast expanse of the northern Oregon coast. The city's geographical layout is centered around three prominent islands: Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown, each area with its distinct character and purpose. To the west, the Palisades overlook the river, and to the east, the Industrial Zone provides a hub for economic activities. The northern edge is defined by Northside, completing the dynamic arrangement of neighborhoods. The city is a hub of cutting-edge technology, neon lights, and towering skyscrapers that pierce the clouds. The streets are bustling with all manner of individuals - from cyber-enhanced mercenaries and streetwise hackers to corporate executives and wealthy elites. Despite the modern facade of the city, there is an underlying sense of dread that hangs over White Crest. It is said that there are horrors lurking in the shadows and sewers, waiting to prey upon the unwary. Their presence is felt throughout the city, with rumors of disappearances and strange occurrences that defy explanation. The shadows are universally feared by the city's underclass, who whisper the city is the missing person capital of the world. The city's architecture is a mix of futuristic and post-industrial, with gleaming skyscrapers of glass and steel intermingled with rusting factories and abandoned warehouses. Each ward and neighborhood has its own distinct character and dangers. There is a palpable sense of decay and neglect in some parts of the city, a stark contrast to the high-tech opulence of its wealthier areas. A vast majority of the city's population resides on the three largest islands of the river delta, divided into distinct districts and purposes. The city's law enforcement is a patchwork of private security forces and corrupt public officials, making it difficult for ordinary citizens to find safety and justice. Many of White Crest's denizens have turned to self-preservation, relying on their own wits and weapons to stay alive. In spite of all this, White Crest remains a hub of innovation and technological advancement, with corporations vying for control and influence in the city's lucrative markets. Whether you're a daring adventurer, a cunning hacker, or a corporate executive, White Crest offers both opportunity and peril in equal measure.

Demographics

White: 50.81%
Asian: 21.31%
Hispanic: 15%
Two or more races: 10.64%
Black or African American: 6.06%
Other race: 2.38%
Native American: 0.54%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.26%

Infrastructure

The most important feature of infrastructure in White Crest are the multiple bridges linking the various island districts as well as the mainland. Without these the city would rely on its limited ferries to traverse its geography. There is a subway system in the city. However, due to the necessity of crossing multiple rivers it is notoriously inefficient and delayed. The tunnels making up the subway and sewers have suffered from a plague of collapses and flooding over the decades making them extremely labyrinthine.

Districts

Due to the arrangement of White Crest across a series of islands with rivers forming natural borders between districts and forcing seperation between the neighborhoods it houses a vast array of cultures and communities. Furthering its reputation for the weird as small niche communities and cloisters find it easy to flourish within the geography of the city. Downtown, as the oldest part of the city, holds a historical and cultural significance. Notable landmarks, including Chinatown, add to its unique charm. However, the area struggles with aging infrastructure and crime, particularly in its eastern regions. The strong Asian influence, highlighted by Chinatown's presence, contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of the district. Midtown, the bustling business hub, showcases a mix of modern and historic architecture, with towering skyscrapers and impressive facades. It serves as the epicenter for corporations, law firms, financial institutions, and tech companies. The district exudes an air of prosperity and ambition, coupled with underlying intrigue and occasional super-villain sightings. Uptown, the pinnacle of luxury and wealth, boasts contemporary and futuristic design in its glass and steel high-rise buildings. This district attracts those seeking high-end shopping, fine dining, and exclusive entertainment. Uptown is also home to prestigious cultural institutions, making it a cultural haven for the city's elite. These distinct districts, along with other notable areas such as the Palisades and the Industrial Zone, collectively contribute to the vibrant tapestry of White Crest, each with its unique character, opportunities, and challenges.

Guilds and Factions

In addition to the various governmental agencies the city is home to a variety of other legal and illicit organizations. Ranging from MegaCorps to Mafias.

History

White Crest's origins are steeped in the spirit of westward expansion and the promise of new opportunities on the untamed West Coast. Like much of Oregon's history, the settlement's growth was shaped by the adventurous spirit of pioneers seeking their fortunes in this vast and promising land.

The Founding and Early Days

In the mid-1800s, as waves of pioneers and settlers made their way westward, a group of ambitious entrepreneurs discovered a fertile river delta nestled at the confluence of two rivers. This delta, uninhabited by the local tribes, presented a promising location for establishing a trading post. The pioneers recognized the strategic importance of the site due to its proximity to the ocean and access to fertile lands. This initial trading post soon attracted merchants, trappers, and adventurers looking to establish a foothold in the Pacific Northwest.

The Emergence as a Trading Hub

As the trading post flourished, it quickly grew into a bustling port city, becoming a vital hub for trade with nearby frontier towns. The city's central location and access to the rivers and sea made it an ideal point for transporting goods and resources. The establishment of industries such as timber, mining, and fishing further boosted the local economy, attracting more settlers and immigrants to the growing community.

The "Tempest of '79,"

A freakishly powerful sea storm, forever etched its mark on White Crest's history, unleashing devastation upon the coast in 1879. The widespread destruction it caused to buildings, homes, and businesses tested the city's resilience, prompting a determined rebuilding effort that led to more modern and robust structures designed to withstand the unpredictable forces of nature. The Tempest was a turning point for White Crest, leading to improved coastal defenses, the implementation of disaster preparedness measures, and a renewed sense of unity among its residents. While the memory of the storm still lingers, it serves as a reminder of the city's vulnerability and its determination to face whatever the sea might throw its way, standing strong as a coastal bastion on the northern Oregon coast.

Industrialization and the Rise of Corporations

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, White Crest's proximity to resources and its strategic coastal location attracted the attention of powerful corporations. The arrival of the NovaGen Corporation, along with other technology and industrial firms, significantly impacted the city's development. NovaGen's presence brought technological advancements, employment opportunities, and infrastructure improvements, transforming White Crest into a prominent center of industry and innovation.

Modern Challenges and Achievements

White Crest's history is marked by both challenges and achievements. The city experienced periods of economic turbulence, including the struggles during the Great Depression and the shifts in industries. However, its resilience and adaptability allowed it to navigate these challenges, diversify its economy, and continue to thrive as a dynamic metropolis. Today, White Crest stands as a vibrant city, known for its blend of tradition and modernity, and continues to be a hub of commerce, culture, and innovation on the northern Oregon coast.

Geography

The city is built in a series of islands in a river delta near the coast. The area surrounding this delta is in a mountain valley making the territory surrounding the city relatively mountainous.

Natural Resources

White Crest is blessed with abundant natural resources that have played a vital role in its growth and prosperity. From fertile lands and lush forests to mineral-rich mountains, the region offers a diverse array of assets. These resources have driven the city's development, attracting settlers and industries alike.

Deepwater Maritime Port

The deepwater maritime port is the lifeblood of White Crest, serving as a hub for trade and commerce on the northern Oregon coast. With state-of-the-art facilities, it enables the efficient movement of goods and fuels the city's economy, making it a critical component of White Crest's identity.

Mining (Gold and Obsidian)

The rich mining deposits around White Crest include valuable resources such as gold and obsidian, prized for their industrial and economic importance. Mining operations in the area have led to the development of mining towns, forging a link between the city's economy and the extraction of these precious minerals.

Logging

The abundant forests surrounding White Crest offer a bounty of timber resources. Logging activities provide essential building materials and fuel for the city's growth, creating a symbiotic relationship with the local environment while contributing to the development of the region.

Offshore Aurorium Drilling and Powerplants

Aurorium, a remarkable heat-absorbent material, has become a game-changer for White Crest. With offshore drilling operations targeting Aurorium deposits, the city is becoming a significant player in harnessing this extraordinary resource. NovaGen's innovative powerplants utilize Aurorium to generate clean and efficient energy, contributing to White Crest's sustainability goals and positioning the city as a technological pioneer.

NovaGen Desalinization Plants

The essential role of water in any thriving city is undeniable, and White Crest's innovative approach to water management shines through its NovaGen desalinization plants. These facilities provide fresh, clean water to the population, ensuring a reliable water supply and supporting the city's growth while mitigating the challenges posed by its coastal location.