Aetherport

Aetherport is a floating village governed by the Skywarden, Alaric Thorne, and the Council of Wind and Sky. It operates with significant autonomy under the Tatharian Empire's jurisdiction. The settlement, composed of numerous hot-air balloons, relies on imported goods and features a unique local industry of stirge meat harvesting. Transportation within Aetherport involves gliders and parachutes due to the lack of interconnected walkways. The infrastructure, including the Skychain for goods transport and the Skywhisper communication network, showcases the residents' resourcefulness in adapting to their airborne environment.

Aetherport's unique community and governance have evolved significantly since its inception. While the original scholar who started the observation balloon has moved on, the village owes its current structure and leadership to a different visionary.

Government

Aetherport, despite its unique airborne nature, falls under the jurisdiction of the Tatharian Empire. However, due to its extraordinary circumstances, it operates with a high degree of autonomy.

Skywarden

The leader of Aetherport holds the title of Skywarden. Currently, this position is held by Alaric Thorne, a former sky sailor known for his pragmatic leadership and deep understanding of Aetherport's challenges. The Skywarden is responsible for the overall safety, governance, and well-being of the community, navigating the delicate balance between the settlement's independence and its obligations to the Empire.

Council of Wind and Sky

Assisting the Skywarden is the Council of Wind and Sky, a group of representatives elected by the residents of Aetherport. This council includes:

Chief Engineer: Oversees the maintenance and safety of the balloons and tethers.

Head of Trade: Manages the market balloons and trade relations with the Tatharian Empire and other settlements.

Master Navigator: Coordinates transportation and ensures safe travel between balloons and to the ground below.

Guard Captain: Leads the defense efforts against threats from below and maintains order within the settlement.

Decision-Making and Autonomy

Aetherport's governance emphasizes community input and cooperative decision-making. The Skywarden holds regular council meetings in Skyhand Plaza, where residents can voice their concerns, propose new initiatives, and vote on important matters. This democratic approach ensures that the unique needs and perspectives of Aetherport's inhabitants are considered.
While Aetherport operates independently in many respects, it remains accountable to the Tatharian Empire. The Skywarden must report significant developments and maintain communication with imperial authorities. In return, the Empire provides support, such as supplies and reinforcements, when needed.

Challenges and Responsibilities

The governance of Aetherport is not without its challenges. The settlement must continuously adapt to:

Environmental Hazards: Unpredictable weather patterns and supernatural air currents require constant vigilance and adaptation.

Demonic Threats: The ever-present danger of demons rising from the pit demands robust defensive measures and preparedness.

Resource Management: Ensuring a steady supply of food, water, and other essentials in an airborne environment requires innovative solutions and efficient trade practices.

Despite these challenges, the leadership of Aetherport remains dedicated to fostering a resilient and thriving community, balancing the settlement's autonomy with its ties to the Tatharian Empire.

Industry & Trade

Aetherport's industry and trade are uniquely adapted to its aerial existence and the challenges posed by its proximity to the pit of Avernus. While the settlement primarily relies on imports for many essential goods, it has also developed its own niche markets and local industries.

Imports

Given its precarious position floating above a monster-infested wasteland, Aetherport depends heavily on imported goods for its survival. Merchants brave the skies, bringing in supplies such as food, building materials, and various other necessities. These imports are crucial for maintaining the settlement's infrastructure and supporting its population. The bustling marketplace of Aetherport is a testament to the diverse array of goods brought in from all corners of Rolara, catering to the needs of scholars, adventurers, and residents alike.

Local Industry

Among the most notable local industries in Aetherport is the harvesting and preparation of stirge meat. These vile, fiendish creatures rise from the pit below in huge flocks, posing a threat to the settlement but also providing an unexpected resource.
Stirge hunting has become a vital part of Aetherport's economy. Hunters use large nets to capture these creatures en masse. Once caught, the stirges are quickly killed and prepared for sale or consumption. The meat, while acquired from a dangerous source, is surprisingly nutritious and has become a staple for the residents of Aetherport. It's also a sought-after delicacy by certain merchants who trade it elsewhere, adding a unique export to the settlement's economy.

Trade Dynamics

Trade in Aetherport is a lively affair, characterized by the constant movement of goods via hot-air balloons and gliders. The lack of conventional transportation routes makes this a risky but rewarding enterprise. Merchants who specialize in aerial trade have established regular routes, taking advantage of the predictable updrafts and air currents that define the settlement's environment.
Local artisans and craftsmen also contribute to the trade scene, creating goods that reflect the unique culture and needs of an aerial community. Items such as reinforced ropes, specialized gliding equipment, and lightweight construction materials are in high demand.

Economic Challenges

Despite its innovative economy, Aetherport faces significant challenges. The dependency on imports makes the settlement vulnerable to supply disruptions, whether from adverse weather conditions, demonic attacks, or other unforeseen events. Maintaining a balance between harvesting stirge meat and ensuring the safety of the hunters is a constant concern.
Nonetheless, the resilience and resourcefulness of Aetherport's residents continue to drive its economic activities, making it a fascinating example of adaptation and survival in a harsh and unpredictable environment.

Infrastructure

Aetherport's infrastructure is a marvel of ingenuity, born from necessity in a world without airships. The settlement's layout and systems ensure the efficient movement of goods and communications, despite the lack of interconnected walkways for people. Here are the key components of Aetherport's infrastructure:

Balloon Network

Aetherport is composed of numerous hot-air balloons, each serving a specific purpose. Residential balloons house the inhabitants, while larger balloons function as marketplaces, communal areas, and observation platforms. These balloons are anchored to the ground below with thick, enchanted ropes and chains, providing stability.

Goods Transport

Goods are transported between balloons using a system of pulleys and winches. This network, known as the Skychain, allows for the efficient transfer of supplies, food, and merchandise. Each balloon is equipped with a docking station where cargo can be securely attached and moved across the settlement.

Communication System

Communication in Aetherport relies on a combination of Magic and mechanical devices. The Skywhisper network, a series of enchanted tubes and speaking trumpets, enables residents to send messages quickly across the settlement. Additionally, trained messenger birds, known as Skywings, are used for delivering written correspondence and small packages.

Energy and Stability

The balloons are kept aloft by a combination of hot air and magical enchantments. Regular maintenance is performed to ensure the integrity of the balloons and their tethers. The supernatural updrafts and predictable air currents aid in maintaining the stability of the entire settlement.

Transport for People

While Aetherport lacks interconnected walkways, residents move between balloons using gliders, parachutes, and other aerial devices. Base-jumping and free-falling are common methods for the brave and adventurous. These activities are made safer by the supernatural rhythms and updrafts that provide a measure of predictability to the otherwise chaotic air currents.

Public Spaces

Communal areas such as Skyhand Plaza and Thorne's Roost serve as central hubs for gatherings, markets, and governance. These larger platforms are designed to accommodate multiple functions, ensuring that the community has spaces for both socializing and administrative activities.
Aetherport's infrastructure is a testament to the resourcefulness and adaptability of its inhabitants, making it a unique and vibrant settlement in the skies above a dangerous and chaotic world.

Founding Date

1524

Founders

• Maelis Veynar

Type

Village

Population

132

Location under

Eoperax

Owner/Ruler

Alaric Thorne

Ruling/Owning Rank

Skywarden

Owning Organization

Tatharian Empire