Ashford Library

First Glance

Situated in the heart of Ravenfield City, the Ashford Library and Archives is an imposing yet welcoming building known for its grand architecture and serene ambiance. The grounds are covered in low, flat gardens and running streams, adding to the calm nature of the setting. The library stands as a beacon of knowledge, history, and culture, making it an ideal neutral ground. The grounds and the structure ebb and flow with the weave of magic visible to the naked eye. Sources of energy like lights glow and swirl with their ethereal or spiritual counterparts. The space is a balance between a calm, removed sanctuary and a barely contained eldritch storm. The building gives the feel of a fortress that would stand for all time.

Historical Significance

The library had been the sanctum of Gideon Ashford and was previously known as the Ravensfield Library. It was renamed the Ashford Library to mark the signing of the Oath Accords, symbolizing the end of the Crimson War. The library is considered the heart of the Oath Accords and neutral ground for all supernatural creatures. With a rich history as a center of learning and neutrality long before the supernatural conflicts arose, its archives contain ancient tomes and manuscripts that document the city's diverse past.

Severed Ties

In preparation for the Oath Accords, Gideon Ashford severed the Ravenfield Library from all the sleepers of the city, all the mortals without some type of supernatural connection. While Gideon explained it in clear and specific terms, he does not discuss the details beyond what he has already provided. Anyone who knows Gideon understands the sacrifice this was for him. He enjoys the hungry minds of sleepers gaining scraps of knowledge and opening themselves to the understanding that is just out of reach. More than one mage has started their journey with a spark they gained at the Ravenfield Library.

Sleepers have been severed from the library.
The library is elsewhere but not beyond.
They will not see the library.
The will not remember the library.
They will not stumble upon the library
Reality will conveniently fill in the gaps.

Ashford Library Gardens 01 by Graylion on MidJourneyAI

Gardens

The gardens of the Ashford Library are a meticulously designed haven of tranquility, featuring low, flat gardens filled with vibrant flowers, and interspersed with gently flowing streams that create a soothing ambiance. These streams are crossed by charming wooden bridges, leading to secluded benches and meditation groves perfect for quiet contemplation. The flora, carefully selected for its magical resonance, includes luminescent moonflowers, everbloom roses, and whispering willows, while the fauna consists of iridescent butterflies and melodious birds. Enchanted fountains and a central Reflection Pool add to the gardens' mystical allure, making them an integral part of the library's serene and inspiring environment.

Main Building

Grand Lobby
The main building of the Ashford Library is a marvel of architectural elegance and functionality, designed to serve both scholarly pursuits and diplomatic needs. Its grand entrance, flanked by sleek, minimalist columns, leads into a spacious lobby featuring polished marble floors and towering, glass-encased shelves that stretch up to a vaulted ceiling. Each shelf is lined with symbols and regalia of knowledge from various cultures and eras. The interior design reflects a harmonious blend of classical and modern elements, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. Large windows flood the space with natural light, highlighting the modern furniture and tech-integrated study areas. This design creates an atmosphere that is both dignified and inviting, perfectly balancing the timeless pursuit of knowledge with contemporary sophistication.

Ashford Library Archive 01 by Graylion on MidJourneyAI

Archive
The heart of the Ashford Library is the Archive, a vast repository of knowledge that spans centuries. This section houses the library’s most valuable collections, including ancient tomes, manuscripts, and historical records, each carefully cataloged and preserved. The Archive is meticulously organized, with climate-controlled conditions ensuring the preservation of delicate materials. The walls are lined with glass-encased shelves made of magic-infused force glass-steel, providing both display and protection for these precious artifacts. The Archive boasts two levels, with the second level overlooking the first and wrapping around the edges, creating a grand and expansive feel. Soft, ambient lighting creates an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility, inviting scholars to delve into the depths of history. Special reading rooms are available for researchers, equipped with large wooden tables and comfortable chairs, offering the perfect environment for in-depth study. The Archive also features a dedicated team of archivists who are experts in their fields, ready to assist with any inquiries and ensure the integrity of the collections is maintained. This combination of careful preservation, accessibility, and expert assistance makes the Archive the intellectual and cultural centerpiece of the Ashford Library.
Private Room
One of the key features of the Ashford Library is its sophisticated meeting and research rooms, which spin off from the first-floor Archive. These private rooms are designed to host important gatherings and discussions as well as provide a quiet environment for scholarly study. Each room is equipped with soundproof walls, a large oval table surrounded by plush chairs, and comfortable desks with ample lighting, offering a secure and confidential space for the members of The Balance to conduct their deliberations and negotiations. Additionally, these rooms serve as focused environments for researchers, ensuring they have the privacy and tranquility needed to delve into their work. These rooms can be reserved in advance, accommodating both crucial meetings and uninterrupted study sessions.
Special Collections Room
The Special Collections Room, located off the second floor of the Ashford Library, is dedicated to housing unique and rare items that require special care. This includes artifacts, illuminated manuscripts, and first editions of significant works. The room is secured with advanced protection systems and is only accessible to researchers with special permission. Exhibits from the Special Collections are occasionally displayed in the Grand Lobby for public viewing, allowing visitors to appreciate these extraordinary treasures while ensuring their preservation.
Auditorium
Beyond the Archive, the Ashford Library features an auditorium designed for lectures, presentations, and cultural events. With tiered seating and excellent acoustics, the auditorium can accommodate a large audience. It is frequently used for public lectures by visiting scholars, book launches, and educational programs, making it a vibrant center for community engagement. This space enhances the library's role as a hub of knowledge and cultural exchange.

Oath Sphere

Gideon has sworn to be the caretaker and sentinel of the Ashford Library, dedicating his life to preserving its sanctity and the knowledge it holds. Central to his role is the Oath Sphere, a powerful magical artifact that allows him to facilitate the swearing of binding oaths. These oaths are not mere promises but are etched into the very essence of the individuals, ensuring unwavering commitment. Gideon utilized the Oath Sphere to broker peace and end the Crimson War between vampires and mages, binding both factions to the Oath Accords. This act not only brought an end to the devastating conflict but also solidified the Ashford Library's status as a neutral and sacred ground for all supernatural beings in Ravenfield City. Through his vigilant guardianship and the power of the Oath Sphere, Gideon continues to uphold the delicate balance of peace and cooperation within the city.

Laws of the Land

Gideon is both a powerful mage and a crafty one. He has built threads into the space of the library grounds and the building that require you to willingly agree to several pieces of powerful magic. The key to entering the grounds is willingly agreeing to these laws below which makes their magic uncontested. The person knows what is expected as they stand on the threshhold of entering the grounds. This acceptance counts as an access key.
Laws & Boons

Speak truth or do not speak

Deception are visible

Thoughts are cleared as if after a rest

Lingering mental conditions are removed

We all speak with one language

Barrier against doors and eyes

Gideon Ashford 01 by Graylion on MidJourneyAI

Alternative Names

Ravenfield Library
Library
Sanctum

Owner

Gideon Ashford