Ephyrae (eh·feh·ray)

A large city located northwest of spawn, Ephyrae is a city that thrives on color and light. Heavily religious, most of the population is a follower of the Ecclesia of the Dawn. Their main exports are wool and dye, while their main imports are raw materials and food.

Government

Ephyrae is a city-state ruled by a Grand Duke or Duchess from Sunhearth. They are technically an absolute monarch, but functionally answer to a small group of noble families. These families often have seats on the Royal Council, and have a large amount of say in how the government runs day-to-day.
The Ephyraean royal court is considered one of the most cutthroat political bodies in the world. Factions, betrayal, and "accidents" ranging from outright assassinations to maimings are fairly commonplace, all under a thin veneer of civility. Most courtiers have to adapt quickly or they tend to not last long.
The government is closely tied to the Ecclesia of the Dawn, and often donate large amounts of money/materials to the organization. The High Priest of the Ecclesia also is an advisor on the the Royal Council.
Taxes are collected as needed for city-wide projects.

Defences

Ephyrae does not have a standing army, only a small force of guards to keep the peace. These guards (also called Sunbringers) are members of the Ecclesia, and answer firstly to the High Priest. The Ecclesia is, of course, paid for the use of these guards by the crown.

Industry & Trade

Ephyrae is a colorful city of art and culture. The city mostly trades dyes and wool, but also artisan goods like banners and paintings. The city's architectural guild are some of the greatest builders in the world, and are available for hire elsewhere as well.

Districts

Ephyrae is easily divided by it's three parallel streets. At the lowest level, the open-air market and workshops coexist with some of the richest people in the city. The middle level is defined by it's narrow street and squished buildings, and is home to mostly housing along with some taverns and shops. The highest level is home to the Temple of Alaran, the guard building, and the castle, Sunhearth.

Guilds and Factions

The Ephyraean Architectural Guild is a functional organization that heads all of the building in Ephyrae, and must be contacted before any building takes place within the city's borders. They are in charge of the city's current project, expansion across the river.

History

The city was originally founded as a Virkhagen colony, but the citizens soon became discontent with the heavy taxation from their far-away rulers. The city was very profitable and yet did not have a military. So, in order to avoid conflict, Ephyrae offered to buy their independence for a hefty price. This cost led to an economic depression that lasted for years. Eventually, Ephyrae returned to its former wealthy state and grew even further. Today, Ephyrae has accumulated one of the largest treasuries in the land.

Tourism

Tourists often go to experience the Fountain of Light, the main ritual site of the Ecclesia of the Dawn. Often, tourists are allowed to view these rituals and the taverns in the city are always open to new guests.

Architecture

With stone bases and colorful second floors, Ephyrae makes good use of its access to many dyes. The gable roofs are most often polished or tiled deepslate and some houses may have small balconies.

Geography

Built into a mountain, Ephyrae is heavily terraformed in order to form it's three tiers. The river surrounding the mountain on three sides offers a small amount of natural protection and, more importantly, access to the sea.

Natural Resources

Ephyrae is set at a mid-to-high altitude, which is perfect for the wool farming industry. The natural flowers around the area make a wide variety of dyes and the river offers enough fish to comfortably feed the city.

Founding Date

-34 BEDD

Type

City

Population

1

Inhabitant Demonym

Ephyraeans

Location under

The Overworld