Whitebridge
Whitebridge is the capital city of the Duchy of Vichi. It sits on the banks of Lake Vichi and gets its name from the large white stone bridge which crosses the river.
Demographics
The city is divided into several wards. At one point in history, the names of each of these wards described the inhabitants and major trades or functions of each ward. In recent years, however, the ward's structure has become less rigid as the city has expanded and integrated The current wards include;
- Castle Ward; the most noticeable feature of the castle ward is the Duchal palace which sits in the centre of this ward. The palace is, in fact, a fortress and is one of the oldest buildings in Whitebridge. The north of the ward houses Vichi's military academy and the Silver Keep, which forms the barracks of one of Vichi's professional armies. To the south, lie the homes of many of the oldest aristocrats in Vichi. Even nobility from out of the city will have a second home here. The Duchal Gardens can also be found here.
- Market Ward; Located in the south-west of the city, the market ward is a large sprawling district. It is home to many warehouses, shops, and in recent years merchants homes. Travellers to the city will find clean, cheap accommodation and food. The Market Ward includes the various docks that lie both on the Vichi River and Lake Vichi.
- Trades Ward; The trades ward lies to the north of the city, and is the only ward to expand beyond the city walls. Traditionally this district was where artisans operated. It is home to several guild halls, including the Stonemason Guildhall. In recent years it became home to many family homes. It is also the location of the Draughmere Logging Companies headquarters.
- Scholar's Ward; directly west of the Castle Ward, one will find the Scholar's Ward. Home to Whitebridge's museums, libraries, universities and other such institutions of learning. It is home to several wizards and houses the primary temple of Ntegi, Silva and Katora.
- East Ward; The second largest of the cities wards, the East Ward is home to countless family homes, small businesses and other basic amenities. Some of the prominent features of the ward include the Eastern Gardens.
- Barrow Ward; the Barrow Ward is the only ward which still holds to its name. It's the smallest of the wards and forms the cities necropolis. It holds the mausoleums of several prominent noble families, some of which closely resemble small houses. The Barrow Ward is also home to the major temple of Obliix.
Government
The city is ruled by Duke Argon D'Marco, however since the death of his only son Maximillian Emmanuel D'Marco that rulership has become nominal. In recent months the Duke has been in a deep melancholy, having taken to drinking heavily. Rulership has effectively been passed to the Privy Council.
The Privy Council
The Privy Council was established in 549 PR, intending to support the Duke in the management of the Duchy. Originally membership of the Privy council was only open to Nobles, but in 607 PR an amendment was created to allow guild masters and highpriests to have a membership. The size of the council has increased over the years, and it currently consists of nine individuals. In a recent development, Duke Argon created the position of Minister of the Privy council, and awarded the position to his brother, Sebastian Baccuet . The Minister is considered to be the Duke's representative in the council, and while the council votes on matters, the Minister has the deciding vote if there is a tie.
Defences
The City of Whitebridge is surrounded by a high protective wall made from locally sourced quartzite. As the light from the sun hits the walls, the city can be seen from miles. Occasioanlly on a clear night, the full moon if reflected on Lake Vicci, cause the refracted light to give the walls an etheral tone.
Industry & Trade
Whitebridge is a major hub for lumber, furs, and stone. Metals are also mined in the surrounding mountains and brought to the city to be sold as raw ingredients, or worked into tools or weapons. In particular, Whitebridge is particularly known for its steel armour and weaponry. The city is the largest exporter of swords in the five dutches. The plate mail armour wrought the master smiths of the city is particularly sought after and often commands kingly prices.
Whitebridge is also renowned for its museums, academies and institutes of learning. The sons and daughters of many nobles throughout the Dutches will be sent to museums and academies. A rivalry exists between Whitebridge and Alonia City, as to which holds the most erudite and prestigious institutes of learning.
Tourism
Type
Capital
Population
80,000
Inhabitant Demonym
Bridger
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
Characters in Location
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