Saint-Barkad

Built on top of a hill, Saint-Barkad is a humble village, with stone houses packed together around a serpentine cobblestone road that slivers through the buildings. One would expect it to be quaint and quiet, but they should not be fooled by its size: the many factories are always busy, kilns set ablaze and potters working hard at the task. The village plaza is always packed with caravans, coming to pick up the many crafted objects to distribute them throughout the country.

by Ritesh Singh

An Artisanal Village

Despite its small size, Saint-Barkad is a village of considerable wealth and reputation. The reason for this is quite simple: most who live there are amongst the country's finest potters. These craftsmen produce some of the most valuable ceramic works, from elegant mosaics to refined plates and vases. Their work is commissioned throughout the Republic, and they are usually always busy with some sort of job for a private palace or an official building.

Shops

There are about 300 different established shops throughout the village, and each usually hosts one potter and their 2 or so assistants in training. The amount of shops means there is a lot of artistic variety, and one can be sure to find something that will suit their tastes.
The shops themselves usually work through a system of orders: usually an envoy will be sent to an artisan by whoever wishes to commission their talent, and the two will meet to discuss the price and work themselves. It is not rare for clients to travel themselves, wishing to talk face to face with the craftsmen they will be paying. Once a price is agreed upon, if the artisan is available, a down payment is made, and the potter will start working on the order.

Type

Village

Population

1'284

Inhabitant Demonym

Saint-Barkadians

The Fountain of Luck

As well as being reputed for their pottery, Saint-Barkad is also known for its lucky fountain. It stands at the top of the hill, on a plaza built at the edge of a cliff which offers a stunning view of the region. The fountain itself is quite small and carved from stone, and it is inscribed with prayers to Lady Luck. Legend has it that tossing a coin in the water will bring you good fortune.

by Eneida Nieves