Trelfi
Society
The Kingdom of Valo is as well known for its extravagance. As an ambitious and wealthy nation, Valo has been able to exert power across large swathes of Pallidon via their military and commerce. These flourished greatly under Queen Amaya Valorim III’s rule, inspiring a current cultural renaissance in the Kingdom. Her public support for the University of the Light has enabled it to become one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Dayne, attracting nobles from Alteria and the Frozen Sands. Similarly, her support for the arts has enabled them to flourish in all Valo. The Cheance is in constant “play” throughout the Kingdom of Valo. Every social and political move is calculated in order to achieve more power and better standing. There is a slight degree of permissiveness towards immoral or illegal acts in Valo, provided the unspoken rule is followed: it is only a crime if you are caught. Even the law can turn a benevolent if not blind eye; an commoner in Valo could earn himself a wink and a grin for a crime that would earn them a year in a dungeon in Kerak or the Frozen Sands. Appearance is a major factor in everything within Valo, and society reflects this through fashion, makeup, art, architecture, food, and the many social scenes. It is said that having the appearance of wealth and power is as important that actually being wealthy and powerful. Cities within Valo attract artists from across Dayne to seek employers and contracts, but is also home to internal talents as well. Son of Queen Amaya Valorim III, and an artist in his own right, Prince Venius Valorim is known for his works. He works diligently with models throughout the process of creating a sculpture, often celebrated dancers, performers, and athletes. Prince Venius draws and sculpts his subjects over and over, often requiring models to repeat a specific dance move or spontaneous gesture. This may include small, quick sketches or "maquette" in an oil-base plasticine clay. Using the "lost wax" method, he then cast the works of art into bronze. Using an artist method of patina, the Prince alters the surface color of the final composition. The completed patinated bronze is affixed to a marble base, also designed and selected by the artist as part of the overall sculptural composition. Valo theatres makes use of ceramic masks to denote character and roles, with the mask's shape and color denoting the character's status and importance to the plot. Plays cover a variety of genres and topics ranging from historical to current social scandals. Valo also has a tradition of puppet theater. The puppets involved can be so complex as to need five puppeteers to work them. Simple shadow puppets made of wood and paper —some more fancifully made of teak— have risen in popularity at smaller parties and salons in the Kingdom. They are often enhanced with the use of colored glass lanterns and musical accompaniment.Government
Monarchy (Kingdom of Valo)
Industry & Trade
Imports
Gems/Crystals, magical reagents/catalysts, leather, paper, and vellum
Exports
Lumber, freshwater, spices, art, fine cloths, furniture
Trade and Commerce
The economy of Trelfi thrives within its bustling streets, transforming it into on the most powerful economic powerhouses within the Kingdom of Valo. Its markets, adorned with elaborate awnings and around the clock activity, offer a huge variance of goods and crafters from places like Utara, the Blue Mountains, and the Frozen Sands. Skilled artisans craft the finest tapestries, jewelry, and magically-infused artifacts, showcasing their talents and attracting buyers. The aroma of incredible food fills the air, as several restaurants line the streets of Trelfi. On a daily basis, the clinking of coins and lively negotiations echo through the winding alleyways of this ancient city. Trelfi is a hub of opportunity, drawing merchants, traders, and entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on its economic juggernaut status, making it a thriving center of commerce and a testament to the city's prosperity.
Districts
- Archduke Springs
- Market Hill District
- Mastiff Row
- Embassy District
- Jardin Gardens
- Ain Borough
Guilds and Factions
The Earth Coalition - The prominent Earth Guild of Dayne. Although based out of Kerak, their foothold in the West is expanding into Valo. Respected healers that despise undead and necromancy in all its forms.
The Tananeen - This group of misanthropes originally hails from the U’Calo Wood, just above Valorim, and are now established in the Trelfi. Their ability and understanding with Dragonscript is unmatched, as is their skill with High Magic of all schools and the knowledge to “create” it.
History
Trelfi was founded in 671 AG by House Tiedra, who controlled a large area in the lower Cahya Valley. The city is the capital of the Duchy of Cahya and was the residence of the local dukes for nearly two hundred years. Trelfi is a massive city that showcases the Kingdoms ingenuity and commercial prowess. Situated as an economical juggernaut within the powerful Kingdom of Valo, Trelfi stands as a testament to the kingdom's prosperity and cultural richness. As the second largest city in the kingdom, Trelfi is a hub of activity, attracting people from far and wide. The city's architecture reflects a fusion of Valorim elements and local aesthetics, resulting in elegant structures adorned with intricately carved stone facades, pointed arches, and towering spires. Cobblestone streets wind through the city, lined with shops, taverns, and many marketplaces.
The city's markets are some of the most active within the Kingdom of Valo, ranging from sumptuous fabrics and rare spices to intricate mechanicals clockworks and artifacts. One of the notable features of Trelfi is the U'calo Embassy, located in the wester area of the city. The embassy serves as a symbol of the peaceful partnership between the residents of Valo and the enigmatic Dark Elves of the U'Calo Woods. Elaborate carvings depicting the intertwined histories and shared endeavors of both peoples adorn the embassy's façade, representing the unity and cooperation that exists between them. The embassy acts as a center for cultural exchange, fostering understanding and diplomatic ties, while also serving as a sanctuary for travelers from the U'Calo Woods who value their privacy. Surrounding the city is a lush landscape of rolling hills, Lake Cahya, and the U’calo Woods themselves, which all provide a picturesque backdrop to Trelfi's grandeur. The beauty of nature is carefully preserved within the city, with manicured gardens and parks interspersed throughout, offering serene retreats for residents and visitors to escape the bustling urban life. In the evenings, Trelfi comes alive with street performances, where musicians, dancers, and troubadours fill the air with melodies and tales of adventure. The city's renowned cuisine delights the senses, as the aromas of freshly baked pastries, hearty stews, and delicate wines waft through the air, tempting even the most discerning palates.
Points of interest
U’calo Embassy – The important structure is located near the western portion of Trelfi and stands as a center of cultural exchange and diplomatic relations. Its graceful architecture seamlessly weaves elven design elements with the grandeur of the city, featuring sweeping arches adorned with intricate leaf motifs and ethereal, luminescent crystals that cast a soft glow at dusk. Tall, slender towers reach towards the sky, symbolizing the unique bond between the residents of Valo and the enigmatic Dark Elves of the U'Calo Woods. Within its halls, adorned with tapestries depicting tales of unity and shared endeavors, diplomats and visitors find a haven of peace, fostering a spirit of understanding and friendship between the two peoples.
The Midnight Odeum - A large stone-walled theatre, home of the renowned human playwright Elois.
Earth Coalition Guildhall of Trelfi - A grand building of half-timbered walls, decorated with finely carved images of nature and healing. It contains a large meeting hall and several smaller rooms. The members assigned here are educated in various means of healing; traditional healing methods, magical sources, and alchemical means.
The Tavern of the Eternal Round - A large dwarven tavern rumored to have kegs of unending beers, meads, and wine. The tavern was one of the first permanent buildings in the area and, by tradition, has the names of its visitors etched onto the buildings pillar supports wherever there is room.
Geography
Trelfi is situated in the central region of Pallidon, within the Kingdom of Valo. The city is located near the southernmost point of the Biron Mountains and is on the western beaches of Lake Cahya. The city is also located on the northwest edge of the U’calo Wood.
Founding Date
671 AG
Type
City
Population
2395
Inhabitant Demonym
Mixed – Mostly human, elves, dark elves, and sylvanborn.
Location under
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
Characters in Location
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