Vernan
Vernan, located in the Golden Hills region, was once a thriving city known for its lush vegetation before the long night event. Situated around a wide and navigable river, Vernan is primarily inhabited by humans, elves, and halflings. The city's strategic location made it vital for protecting the nearby region of Ruthez and providing sustenance, as the Golden Hills were once the most fertile lands in the nation.
Government
Vernan's government imposes taxes on specific goods and services, though the welfare provided to its citizens is average. Education is available but comes at a cost, and healthcare is overtaxed and underfunded, leading to bureaucratic evasion of complaints. The city follows a punitive-based legal system, with breaches of the law resulting in punishments such as hard labor, incarceration, fines, or even public execution. Magic is viewed with suspicion, and guards are quick to incarcerate any adventuring magic users they encounter.
Industry & Trade
Trade plays a significant role in Vernan's economy, allowing its approximately 1500 residents to maintain a modest existence. The city boasts various guilds and factions that contribute to its commercial activities and prosperity.
Districts
The Aetherium Vaults: Deep beneath the city of Vernan lies the Aetherium Vaults, a vast network of underground chambers and catacombs. These vaults were originally built besides for hosting the dead to also store and protect valuable artifacts, relics, and magical items. Over time, they have become a labyrinth of secrets and mysteries, attracting adventurers, scholars, and treasure hunters seeking to uncover their hidden treasures and unravel their enigmatic history.
Guilds and Factions
The Pedlars of Vernan: This influential merchants guild has a reputation for excellence and is driven by the pursuit of glory. However, they are suspected of being involved in the disappearance of the previous duke, a matter that raises suspicion within the city.
Seers' and Company: A renowned wizards college, Seers' and Company is one of the oldest factions in Vernan. With an excellent reputation and a motivation for fame, the college is associated with a specific bloodline, suggesting a deeper connection to the arcane arts.
The Land Owners of Vernan: Representing the nobility, the Land Owners of Vernan is a relatively new faction. Motivated by power, they hold significant influence within the city and are involved in matters related to land ownership and governance.
The Creators of Vernan: This well-established artisans guild focuses on craftsmanship and trade. Known for their excellent reputation and driven by financial gain, they are rumored to occasionally assist lucky commoners, further endearing them to the populace.
Points of interest
Tourism
Vernan offers several attractions for visitors, including the famous ribcage of a giant whale that fell from the sky long ago, destroying a mill in the process. Local legends differ regarding its origin, but the most accepted explanation involves a reckless wizard tampering with the nature of probability. The ribcage is now surrounded by a field of red petunias and the mill has been transformed into the renowned tavern, The Blind Whale, which has become a fabled establishment in the city.
Founding Date
During the First Age
Alternative Name(s)
The Town of Golden Hills
Type
Large town
Population
1500
Inhabitant Demonym
Vernanians