The Pearl City

The capital city of the Court of the Ephemeral is a mostly underwater metropolis built around a central structure that represents the moon.

The city is characterized by shimmering towers and buildings made of luminescent materials that glow in the dark, casting an otherworldly light on the streets and walkways. The city's architecture is a mix of traditional Fae styles and innovative designs that take advantage of the unique qualities of the underwater environment.

The city is surrounded by a protective barrier enchantment that keeps the water from flooding in and protects the inhabitants from any outside threats. Within the city, there is a system of canals or waterways that connect different neighborhoods and districts, and transportation is provided by boats, sea creatures, and other magical means.

The capital is the center of political power for the ephemeral Fae court. It holds the important government buildings, law enforcement offices, and meeting halls located in the heart of the city. There are also marketplaces, libraries, and other cultural centers where citizens can gather and exchange ideas.

Overall, the capital city of the ephemeral Fae court is a stunning and awe-inspiring place that showcases the court's deep connection to the underwater environment and the celestial bodies that influence their way of life.

Demographics

As the capital city of the ephemeral court is located deep underwater, the population is primarily composed of the court's own kind: the ephemeral fae. They are a highly skilled and intelligent people, deeply connected to celestial bodies like the moon and the stars. As such, their city is filled with intricate celestial-inspired architecture, ranging from towering spires that resemble starbursts to domed buildings that reflect the phases of the moon. The city is a marvel of engineering, with water channels and canals running throughout to allow ease of movement for the fae, who have the ability to breathe underwater.
The population is divided into different clans, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Due to their highly developed civilization, the court is very liberal with their views on gender, marriage, and familial institutions but holds on to grudges and enmities that have lasted for centuries. While they are highly advanced in technology and magic, they are fiercely protective of their way of life and keep outsiders at arm's length.
Despite this, the city is not devoid of life. Various species of aquatic creatures, from colorful schools of fish to majestic whales, can be found swimming through the city's canals, adding to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the city.

Government

As the capital city of the ephemeral court, the government is directly linked to the Ephemeral Matriarch/Patriarch of the court. The city is ruled by a council of influential fae, each representing a different clan or faction within the city. This council works closely with the monarch and the court to ensure the smooth running of the city, and to make decisions that impact the entire population.
The monarch of the court has ultimate authority over the city, but they often delegate responsibilities to the council, who act as a sort of advisory body. The council members are appointed by the monarch, and their positions are generally determined by their status within their respective clans or factions. They are responsible for drafting laws and policies that impact the city and its inhabitants.
The council also oversees the day-to-day functioning of the city, including maintaining its infrastructure, ensuring the safety of the population, and regulating commerce and trade. They work with various guilds and organizations within the city to ensure that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
While the council holds considerable power in the city, they are ultimately answerable to the monarch and the court. The monarch has the power to overrule any decision made by the council, and they can also dissolve the council and replace it with a new one if necessary.

Defences

Powerful underwater barriers: The city has barriers made of powerful magic to keep out unwanted visitors and dangerous sea creatures. These barriers are invisible, with a warning system for approaching ships or creatures.
Trained guards and soldiers: The capital city has a force of trained guards and soldiers to patrol the city and protect it from intruders. These guards have specialized training in underwater combat and use weapons that are suited for use in an underwater environment.
Advanced surveillance systems: The city could has an advanced network of surveillance systems to monitor the surrounding waters and detect any potential threats. These include listening devices, and other sensors.
Defensive structures: The capital city has defensive structures, such as underwater fortresses, watchtowers, and other structures designed to defend against attacks. These structures are armed with weapons such as harpoons, cannons, and other underwater weapons.
Defensive magic: The citizens of the city have access to powerful magic spells and incantations that can be used to defend against intruders. These spells are used to create powerful shields and to summon sea creatures to fight on their behalf.
Overall, the capital city of the ephemeral court has a complex and sophisticated defense system to protect its citizens from any external threats.

Infrastructure

Businesses related to celestial bodies or water are prominent, such as astrologers, navigators, fishermen, or coral farmers. Additionally, due to their advanced magical abilities, businesses specializing in enchantments or spellcasting are also present. Ultimately, the entrepreneurial spirit of the population lead to a diverse range of industries and businesses.

Districts

Moon District: A district that is named after the court's connection to celestial bodies like the moon. This district is a center for astrology, astronomy, and other related industries.
Sun District: Similar to the Moon District, the Sun District is named after the court's connection to the sun and other celestial bodies. This district is a hub for solar-based technologies, such as solar-powered enchantments, and is also be home to businesses that cater to those who worship the sun or other celestial bodies.
Coral District: As the court is a series of deep underwater cities, the capital city has a district dedicated to coral farming and other aquatic industries.
Magic District: A district that is dedicated to businesses specializing in enchantments, spellcasting, and other magical industries. This district is a hub for those seeking magical education or assistance with magical issues.
Commerce District: This district is the heart of the city's economy, home to businesses such as markets, shops, and banks.
Government District: As the capital of the ephemeral court, the city has a government district, where the court's administration and leaders are based.
Residential District: Finally, the city has a residential district, where citizens of the capital live and relax away from the bustle of the other districts.

Assets

Underwater architecture: As the court is known for their deep underwater cities, the capital city is home to impressive underwater architecture, such as coral buildings or crystal domes.
Celestial observatories: As the court is deeply connected to celestial bodies like the moon, the capital city has impressive observatories that allow the court to track celestial events and maintain their connection to the cosmos.
Advanced magic: The court is a powerful people, and the capital city is home to some of the most advanced magic in the land. This includes powerful enchantments that protect the city from harm and spells that allow the court residents to communicate across long distances.
Deep sea vessels: The court has a fleet of deep sea vessels that allow them to travel across the oceans with ease. These vessels are outfitted with magical technology and weapons to protect the court from enemies.
Art and culture: The court is known for their artistic and cultural achievements, and the capital city is home to impressive galleries, museums, and performance spaces that showcase the court's talents.
Wealth and resources: The court is a prosperous people, with access to valuable resources like pearls, coral, and other underwater treasures. The capital city is a hub of trade and commerce, with markets selling exotic goods from across the sea.
Overall, the assets of the capital city of the ephemeral court reflect the court's power, wealth, and cultural sophistication.

Guilds and Factions

Seafarer's Guild - This guild is made up of experienced sailors and fishermen who are responsible for ensuring safe passage of goods and people in and out of the city.
Moon Priesthood - As the court is deeply connected to celestial bodies like the moon, there is a Moon Priesthood that holds great influence and power within the city while worshipping the goddess Arianrhod - Goddess of the Moon and Fate Weaver.
Pearl Diver's Union - With the city being located deep underwater, pearl diving is a major industry. The Pearl Diver's Union is responsible for regulating the trade and ensuring fair wages for workers.
Coral Craftsmen's Association - The Coral Craftsmen's Association is responsible for creating intricate carvings and sculptures from the colorful coral reefs that surround the city.
Shadow Guild - With the court known for its grudges and old animosities, there is an underground guild of spies and assassins who specialize in carrying out revenge and vendettas with other courts. This guild reports directly to the Ephemeral Matriarch/Patriarch.

History

The Ephemeral Court was sunk in the past as a punishment for their lack of monogamy and for their liberal ideology. The sinking was caused by a war with the other courts that resulted in the destruction of the capital city and the court itself. The opposing force used powerful magic to sink the city in an attempt to wipe out the court, in retaliation for past conflicts and to eliminate them as a perceived threat to their own power. The city was not destroyed as the goddess Arianrhod - Goddess of the Moon and Fate Weaver sheilded the court, sinking it instead.

Points of interest

The Palace of the Moon: The grand palace of the court, where the Ephemeral Matriarch/Patriarch and their council reside. It is built from iridescent shells and gleams in the light of the moon.
The Celestial Observatory: A towering observatory that houses some of the world's greatest astronomers and astrologers. They study the celestial bodies and their movements, and provide guidance and predictions to the court.
The Coral Gardens: An underwater garden filled with brightly colored coral and sea flowers. It is a popular spot for courtiers to stroll and relax, and is often the site of outdoor gatherings and celebrations.
The Pearl Market: A bustling market filled with treasures from the sea. Merchants from all over the world come to trade pearls, shells, and other exotic goods.
The Abyssal Library: A vast library filled with ancient tomes and scrolls. Scholars come from far and wide to study the history and magic of the court, as well as to learn about other lands and cultures.
The Leviathan Arena: A massive arena where powerful sea beasts are pitted against each other in fierce battles. It is a popular pastime for the courtiers, and many place bets on the outcome of the fights.
The Temple of the Deep: A grand temple dedicated to the court's goddess of the sea. It is a place of worship and pilgrimage, and is said to hold great power and secrets.
The Sea Palace: A grand structure made entirely of mother-of-pearl, located deep in the ocean. It is said to be the home of Arianrhod - Goddess of the Moon and Fate Weaver, and is guarded by powerful magic.
The Underwater Aqueducts: A network of underwater tunnels that supply the city with fresh water. They are a marvel of engineering and are maintained by skilled engineers and aqueduct workers.
The Shimmering Plaza: The heart of the city, a large open plaza where courtiers gather to socialize, dance, and listen to music. It is paved with iridescent stones that shimmer in the light, and is surrounded by some of the city's most important buildings and landmarks.

Architecture

The city has a mix of underwater and a few above-ground structures, with buildings crafted from shimmering seashells, coral, and colorful iridescent stones. The structures are adorned with intricate carvings and intricate mosaics, with some buildings featuring domed roofs resembling sea anemones or starfish.
The underwater buildings are crafted from sturdy materials, such as obsidian and polished black stone, to withstand the pressure of the deep sea. The buildings have large windows and bioluminescent light sources, illuminating the underwater city in a mystical glow. The city has wide boulevards and narrow alleys, lined with vibrant sea plants and shimmering pearls.
In contrast, the few above-ground structures are crafted from lighter materials like white stone, marble, and alabaster, with tall spires and steeples reaching towards the sky. The buildings are adorned with intricate stonework and sculptures depicting the moon and stars. The streets are wide and paved with smooth stones, lined with fragrant gardens of sea lavender and other exotic sea plants.
Overall, the architecture of the capital city is a stunning testament to the ephemeral court's connection to the sea and the heavens above, embodying the court's values of beauty, power, and majesty.

Geography

As the capital city of a court that lives in mostly deep underwater cities, the geography surrounding it would consist mostly of the dark and endless depths of the ocean. The city itself is situated in a shallow portion of the ocean, with the surrounding sea floor sloping steeply downward into deeper waters. The surrounding landscape is mostly devoid of plant life, with only the occasional rock formation and coral reef providing a bit of color to the otherwise monochromatic landscape.
The city's architecture is designed to withstand the immense pressure of the ocean depths and is constructed out of sturdy materials like coral, sea glass, and various types of stone. The buildings are designed to maximize natural light, with large windows and skylights allowing sunlight to penetrate the city's depths.
In addition to the city itself, there are other points of interest in the surrounding ocean, such as underwater caves, shipwrecks, and various types of sea life, both dangerous and benign. Some of these natural features are incorporated into the city's design and used as landmarks for navigation.

Climate

As the capital city is located deep underwater, its climate is not affected by external factors such as seasons and weather patterns in the way that surface cities are. The temperature is consistent year-round, with water currents affecting the temperature and flow of water in the city. However, the deeper down a person is in the city, the colder and darker it becomes. The climate within the city would be dependent on its location and depth within the ocean.

Natural Resources

Fish and other sea creatures: The ocean is a primary source of food for the city's inhabitants, with fishing and other forms of sea creature harvesting being important industries.
Seaweed and other aquatic plants: The city has access to a variety of seaweed and other aquatic plants that could be used for food, medicine, and other purposes.
Corals and other underwater minerals: The ocean floor around the city is rich in minerals and other materials that is harvested and used for various purposes, such as building materials and jewelry.
Water: While water may seem like an abundant resource in an underwater city, the fae court has specific needs for freshwater and other types of water that are sourced from springs, rivers, and other underwater sources.

Type

Capital