Klima

The Hidden Tradepost

Demographics

Nomags and Journeyman content Air Mages make up the majority of the settlement. However there are quite a few Journeyman Earth Mages and their Masters who live and work in the town regularly.

Government

Though located in the Air Realm, the settlement of Klima is more of a commune than a functioning town. The inhabitants rely on each other for their survival and as such are a very tight knit group. Each person must contribute a set amount based on their needs. Larger families - or groups of Mages - must contribute more resources than individuals, etc. Anyone not meeting the contribution requirements receives a warning, then a probation period in which to make up the missing requirements, then finally is removed from the settlement. Any profits or possessions above or beyond the required contribution are personal property. Any major decisions or disagreements are brought before the General Assembly and put to a vote. Decisions regarding the excavation or safety of the settlement are left to the Mages.

Defences

Most people who come to trade in the town have no idea that the settlement is actually underground. The marketplaces are mostly tents made of wooden poles and canvas, which are taken down at the beginning of the hot season and re-erected as the temperatures drop. Ventilation and plumbing are protected by enchantment while the trapdoor entrances and exits are heavily guarded at all times. Only those with citizen markings may enter or exit at will.

Industry & Trade

Klima is primarily a trade post - a stopping point for those travelling up or down river, or a marketplace for exporting and importing goods. Some merchants also set up temporary shipyards, inns, restaurants, or stables to service travelers. The recent opal strike has created an off season income opportunity for those citizens who stay year-round.

Infrastructure

During the cooler seasons the town becomes a thriving trade post between the Air Realm and the neighboring country of Ethea. Goods travel mostly by river, though some goods are transported across the Wastes from Tulaga or the Air Mage Academy by horses. However the majority of the settlement is actually below ground. Living quarters - including sleeping accomodations, recreation areas, kitchens, and lavatories are all built underground. Families will often have one main living space with separate rooms dug out for sleeping. Dormitories are set up for Master Mages and their Journeymen, with large caverns for recreation during off duty. Six fortnights out of the year, the entire population retreats below grade to escape the sweltering temperatures above ground. Massive storerooms and greenhouses supply the entire settlement with the required food during this isolated period. An intricate plumbing system provides water from the Klima River and removes all liquid waste. Solid waste is converted into fertilizer for the greenhouses.

Assets

The Earth Mages in residence are there for two reasons. The first is the creation and maintenance of the settlements underground structure. Earth Mages repair damaged rooms, supervise the digging of new quarters, maintain the plumbing network, and also oversee the running of the greenhouses. The second reason for the presence of the Earth Mages are the opal mines. Recently discovered, the Earth Mages struck a vein of brilliant pink opals while excavating a new storeroom. The Earth Mages are overseeing the excavation of the mine while the Air Mages are refining the gems for export.

Alternative Name(s)

Oasis of the Wastes

Type

Underground / Vault

Population

500