Ilester

"The city's got lava flowin' through it.  Lava!  Almost does enough to warm ye up after the cold reception on arrival." --Ezzeron Cutho, traveling merchant
Located at the base of Serpent's Tooth, the city of Ilester is the oldest city in Galiesia. The settlement began as a collection of smaller villages each vying for a foothold in the mineral-rich mountainside. As these towns slowly grew and prospered, they merged into the city of Ilester, named for the largest among them.
Ilester is best known for its production of magically enhanced weapons and armor. Free-flowing volcanic crests play host to numerous foundries within the city. A culture of deep respect and understanding of elemental nature, especially fire, has evolved within the city as these foundries have become central to the Ilestran way of life.
Ilestrans themselves have a reputation for being a secretive lot. In reality, the city's remote location has created a fiercely independent, insular people who deeply value their community.
Despite the city's location directly on top of robust leyline, traditional practitioners of arcane arts tend to be relatively rare. Few are born with the gift. Those Ilestrans who develop the capacity for spellcasting are often extremely powerful.

Government

Ilester is governed by a city council comprised of representatives from each of the Five Foundries.  Each foundry is responsible for selecting its council representative--some are inherited through familial lines while others are elected officials.  In some cases, the line between these two is blurred, as political dynasties rise and fall.
The Foundries of Ilester are largely responsible for maintaining themselves, though a certain amount of taxes collected annually go to the Ilestran general coffers.

Guilds and Factions

• Drakesteel Foundry: Iammon Morjhan (Dragonborn)
• Flickergem Foundry: Th'Aysra Dosoman (half-orc)
• Foundry of the Dawnforge: Oklyn Seith (Bearded human)
• The Voidlight Anvil: Hendawin Drit (Human woman)
• Salamandrine Foundry: Hepith Brighsil (dwarven woman)

Architecture

The stunning peaks of Ilester are carved into grand spires and cathedrals of volcanic stone, with channels, aqueducts, and even fountains constructed to divert and control the molten rock that flows from the heart of the mountain. 
Some of these structures sit dark and abandoned due to structurally compromised interiors, or uncontrolled lava incursions.  Their dark profiles stand in stark contrast to the near-constant glow and movement of their active counterparts.

Maps

• 

  Ilester

Alternative Name(s)

City of Obsidian

Type

City

Inhabitant Demonym

Ilestran

Location under

Galiesia

Related Reports (Primary)

• Session 174: Recon & Refugees
• Session 182: Combing & Conflagration
• Session 183: Holes & Hostages