Avernon

The Vibrant City of Avernon

Avernon, a bustling metropolis, boasts a myriad of districts that weave together a rich tapestry of life and culture. As travelers approach the city, they are greeted by four grand gates, each guarded by imposing stone statues of mythical beasts. The main entrance, the Southern Lion Gate, stands proud and resolute, welcoming all who seek passage into the heart of the Republic.

1. Lorend District - The Commerce Nexus:
Southern Gate: The Lions Gate

Beyond the Southern Lion Gate lies the Lorend District, a vibrant hive of commerce that thrives day and night. The air is alive with the harmonious symphony of bartering and the melodies of street performers. Countless market stalls line the cobbled streets, offering every conceivable type of merchandise. From exotic spices sourced from the distant lands of Zethyr to finely crafted enchanted trinkets, one can find treasures from far and wide in this bustling market district.
Amidst the commotion, a colossal marketplace stands tall, adorned with colorful banners that dance in the wind. Known as the Grand Bazaar, it is the epicenter of trade and the heart of Lorend's prosperity. Traders from all corners of Aver assemble here, establishing Lorend's reputation as the primary trading hub of the Republic. As the saying goes, "What you can't find at Lorend during the day, you can't find it anywhere."

2. Aenshyr District - Sanctuary of Faith:

Continuing north through the Lorend District, travelers pass through the Aver Tunnel, a passage that leads them to the Aenshyr District. This once humble refuge for elven refugees has since blossomed into a radiant lighthouse of faith. At its heart stands the breathtaking Shrine of Elaine, dedicated to the Elven Goddess of Wisdom and Light. The shrine, a marvel of architectural splendor, features a soaring ceiling of 30 meters, adorned with intricate carvings and bathed in a soft ethereal glow.
Built from luminous white marble that seems to shimmer like moonlight, the Shrine of Elaine has become an awe-inspiring sight, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to bask in its divine aura. Inspired by its grandeur, other faiths have erected their own shrines and temples, creating a diverse tapestry of spiritual reverence.
The Aenshyr District has also become a sanctuary for those seeking solace in faith. From humble acolytes to seasoned healers, visitors can find skilled practitioners offering their services to aid weary travelers or those in need of spiritual guidance.

3. Kolind District - The Heart of Residence:
Northern Gate: The Falcon Gate
In the northern reaches of Avernon lies Kolind, a district that warmly embraces both locals and travelers. Primarily a residential area, Kolind houses a myriad of welcoming inns and cozy taverns that beckon travelers to rest their weary feet and share tales of their journeys. Here, the aromas of hearty stews and freshly baked bread waft from open kitchen windows, enticing passersby with the promise of a comforting meal. The Falcon Gate, located at the northern walls of Avernon, stands as a portal to Crayden, allowing travelers to venture beyond the city limits. Among the notable establishments in Kolind are the Crying Pig, renowned for its delectable pig tarts and pies, and the Sleepy Joe, a beloved tavern where both night and day drinkers find camaraderie.

4. Kornan District - The Bastion of Defense:
Western Gate: The Gryphon Gate
Westward lies Kornan, the military district of Avernon. In the aftermath of the first Avernon War, the city made a strategic shift, focusing on building a formidable defensive force rather than an expansive offensive army. This decision, while fortifying Avernon's safety, inadvertently allowed criminal syndicates to establish a foothold in the surrounding towns and villages.
Kornan is a hub of industry and craftsmanship, with skilled smiths and carpenters hard at work, supplying the military with arms and protective gear. Travelers with well-lined coin purses may find themselves acquiring top-notch equipment for their journeys and forging valuable business connections along the way.
At the heart of Kornan stands Keep Lorgrave, a grand fortress that serves as the headquarters for Avernon's defensive forces. Its towering walls and watchtowers symbolize the city's unwavering commitment to protect its people and uphold peace.
Within Kornan, a residential area houses the families of soldiers and citizens proudly serving in the military, fostering a close-knit community built on mutual support and camaraderie.
As the sun sets over Avernon, its districts come alive with the pulsating rhythm of life, each one a unique piece of the grand mosaic that forms the Republic's crown jewel. Visitors and residents alike are embraced by the city's ever-welcoming spirit, inviting them to revel in the wonders and mysteries of this thriving metropolis.

5. The Eastern District - The Red District:
Eastern Gate: The Moonshade Gate
Amidst the vibrant city of Avernon lies the Eastern District, an alluring realm known as the Red District, brimming with enchantment and entertainment. Its streets pulse with energy, beckoning visitors to indulge in revelry and delight. Magical lanterns cast an iridescent glow, painting the surroundings with shifting colors that mirror the phases of the moon.
At the heart of the Red District stands the legendary Grand Playhouse, a marvel of architectural splendor. Within its opulent walls, captivating performances unfold, ranging from enchanting elven dances to awe-inspiring dragonkin fire shows, leaving spectators spellbound.
Beneath the glimmering allure, the district conceals a mysterious underworld. Clandestine alleys and dimly lit taverns host shady creatures, their motivations veiled in secrecy. Among the tales whispered, one legend reigns supreme - that of "The Veiled Sovereign," an elusive figure rumored to hold sway over the district's darker elements.
To navigate the Red District, adventurers must possess discernment, as intrigue and deception lurk beneath the surface. Yet, for those who brave its allure, the Red District promises unforgettable experiences and life-changing encounters.

by Avernon City

The Republican Councillor Election
The selection process for the Republic Councillor rotates among the races, granting each an equal opportunity to participate in shaping the city's destiny. Whether human, elf, dwarf, gnome, halfling, or any other race residing in Avernon, all have the right to present their candidate for consideration.
As the Senate convenes beneath the grand dome of the Throne Room, a symphony of voices rises, each representing the diverse perspectives and interests of the city's inhabitants. Within these walls, decisions are made, laws are crafted, and a tapestry of unity is woven, binding the people of Avernon in a harmonious dance of progress and coexistence.

The Hallowed Throne Room
Within the heart of Concordia Citadel lies the hallowed Throne Room. Though the days of a singular monarch have passed, the grandeur of the throne endures as a symbol of the Republic's history. Each podium hovers gently above the floor, arranged in a circular formation, embodying the principles of equality and inclusivity. Here, the Republic Councillor, elected every two years through a process of democratic representation, presides over the sessions, embodying the collective voice of the people.
In Concordia Citadel, the past and the future converge, reminding all who enter that while monarchs may come and go, the spirit of democracy and the power of shared governance endure, forever illuminating the path toward a brighter, united Avernon.

by Joran Husmin

The Central District: Concordia Citadel
Nestled at the heart of Avernon stands a majestic marvel known as Concordia Citadel, an awe-inspiring testimony to the city's rich history and enduring democracy. Once the residence of the ruling monarchic family, the palace now serves as the seat of the esteemed Senate of the Republic, an institution that governs with wisdom, compassion and collective decision-making.

From the outskirts of Avernon, the towering walls of Concordia Citadel command attention, proudly encircling the grand building like ancient sentinels. Perched atop an artificial hill, the palace's creation itself is a testament to the city's mastery of transmutation magic. They shaped the very earth to fashion this grand edifice, forming an elevated ground upon which the Senate's seat of power resides.
As one ventures through the palace gates, a sense of awe washes over visitors, each step guiding them deeper into the heart of the Republic's governance. Concordia Citadel is not just a place of administration, but also a thriving community. Within its vast expanse, living quarters provide comfort to the palace staff and guards who dedicate their lives to the preservation of order and security.
The palace's hospitality extends beyond its walls, offering opulent guest rooms for visiting diplomats. Here, envoys from distant lands and diverse races find respite as they partake in diplomatic encounters, forging alliances and strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation.

Type

Capital

The Architecture of the Concordia Citadel
The architectural marvel of Concordia Citadel is a testament to the city's unity amidst its diversity. Throughout the palace, different sections have been renewed, each adorned with unique touches representing the culture and craftsmanship of the races living in Avernon. In one wing, elements of the dwarves' masterful stonework can be seen, featuring intricate carvings and sturdy pillars that evoke a sense of strength and resilience. In contrast, an elvish-inspired section boasts ethereal beauty, with slender arches that seem to reach for the heavens and delicate, nature-inspired motifs that celebrate the harmony between the elves and the natural world.
Yet, it is not just the dwarves and elves who have left their mark on Concordia Citadel. Each race that calls Avernon home has contributed to the palace's tapestry. From the gnomes' whimsical engineering marvels to the halflings' cozy and inviting spaces, every corner of the palace exudes a unique charm that reflects the rich cultural fabric of the city.