Berthe
Government
The government of the capital city of Berthe operates under a monarchical system, with the city being directly overseen by the King or Queen of Berthe, who resides in the Royal Citadel. The ruler holds absolute authority over the city, though much of the day-to-day governance is delegated to a carefully structured hierarchy of noble families, local officials, and appointed advisors. At the heart of this system is the Tribunal of Truth, the primary judicial body responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. It serves as both the highest court of law and an advisory council to the monarch, with influential judges drawn from noble families or other esteemed lineages.
The City Watch, an elite force dedicated to the safety of the capital, is led by the Warden of the Watch, an appointed position granted by the monarch. This body manages the security of the capital, from guarding the gates to overseeing the surveillance networks that keep an eye on the city's citizens and visitors.
Defences
City Walls and Gates
The main city wall would be a massive, multi-layered structure. At least three stories tall, it would be punctuated by watchtowers that allow soldiers to spot incoming threats from a great distance.
The outer walls would be equipped with a mix of arrow slits, crossbow posts, and large ballistae (siege engines) that could be fired from behind the wall to repel attackers at a distance.
The city would have multiple gates, but they are heavily defended. Portcullises, heavy iron gates, and fortified archways would make entry difficult, while guard towers at each gatehouse would provide tactical advantages.
The River Defense
Small flotillas of riverboats and warships could patrol the river around the city, guarding key passages and ensuring that no unauthorized ships can approach the city unchallenged. River access would be limited to those with proper clearance or official documentation.
Strategic points along the river could be reinforced with river bastions – strongholds or towers built along the water's edge, equipped with cannons, ballistae, and heavy defensive armor to repel any attackers trying to approach via boat or crossing.
The Royal Citadel and the Inner Defenses
Inside the city, the Citadel would have its own strong set of walls, designed not only to protect the royal family but to house important officials and resources should the city fall under siege. These inner walls would be reinforced with the finest stone and metal, and would be difficult to scale or breach.
The Royal Guard, an elite and highly trained force, would be stationed in the Citadel, ready to defend the royal family and lead counterattacks if needed. They would also protect the Hall of Oaths, where important oaths and laws are sworn, as well as other key political institutions within the Citadel.
The Watch and Surveillance
The City Watch would be a vast network of guards and soldiers tasked with ensuring the security of the capital. These men and women would patrol the streets, monitor the movements of citizens, and maintain public order. They would be well-trained in detecting sabotage, insurgencies, and external threats.
Throughout the city, watchtowers would be located at key points (such as the outer walls and near the gates), ensuring that there are no blind spots in the defense. These towers would be manned 24/7, with spotters using signals to communicate urgent warnings.
The Iron Bastion
Situated near the Ironhold District, this would be a key military stronghold where the kingdom's weapons, armory, and military forces are stationed. The Iron Bastion would be a fully stocked defense center, ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice. The surrounding Ironhold District is often on high alert, with constant military drills and weapons manufacturing to ensure the city is always prepared for conflict.
Underground Tunnels
While not directly accessible to the general public, the Royal Family and high-ranking officials might use secret tunnels in case of emergency evacuation. These tunnels could also serve as escape routes in case the city falls under attack, and would be heavily guarded.
The Defensive Networks: Spies and Informants
The Silent Network: A secret service group under the direct control of the monarchy, they would monitor dissent within the city and surrounding regions, working in the shadows to uncover plots and sabotage.
The Informants Guild: There would likely be a guild of professional informants, many of whom are city residents or common folk, who provide intelligence to the crown in exchange for coin or protection.
Infrastructure
Roads and Transportation
Royal Roads and Highways: Well-maintained and wide roads connect key districts of the city, particularly to the Royal Citadel, ensuring the swift passage of both royal processions and military units. These roads are paved with durable stone or cobblestones, allowing for all-weather use.
Bridges: Several large stone bridges cross the central river, connecting different districts. Smaller footbridges also link the city's canals and streams, aiding pedestrian traffic and adding to the picturesque quality of the city.
Carriages and Carts: Well-regulated traffic of carriages, carts, and merchants’ wagons fill the main streets, with special routes designated for royalty, nobility, and government officials. Carriages bearing official seals are allowed priority on specific roads.
Water Supply System
A network of aqueducts, wells, and underground piping brings fresh water to various districts. The nobility likely enjoys private water connections, while the lower districts might rely on public fountains or wells.
Waste Management and Sanitation
Sewer System: A complex underground network of sewers and drainage channels, maintained by the city's engineers, prevents flooding and waste buildup, especially in the bustling commercial areas. Sewage flows from the streets into the river or more remote disposal points outside the city.
Public Latrines: Strategically placed latrines and communal bathhouses are common, particularly in districts like the Lower District and near marketplaces. Wealthier districts have private facilities.
Markets and Trade Hubs
The Ironhold District: The industrial heart of the city, where metalworking, smithing, and trade of raw materials take place. Here, ironworks, weaponry production, and other crafts are vital to both the kingdom’s economy and military needs.
Port Facilities (River Trade): While not a coastal city, the capital still has extensive riverfront docks in Tidebrook Quarter. Merchants from across Berthe and beyond use the river to transport goods into the city via barges and riverboats. Warehouses line the waterfront, storing both goods awaiting distribution and items of significant value that require extra security.
Public Spaces and Gathering Areas
The Arena of Valor: This massive coliseum is both a recreational and political space, used for tournaments, public executions, and events that reinforce the strength of Berthe’s military might. The arena’s location is central, easily accessible for citizens and foreign visitors alike.
City Squares and Plazas: Various open-air spaces throughout the city are used for public gatherings, festivals, and political rallies. These areas are designed for large crowds, with plenty of seating, shade, and spaces for performances or speeches.
Religious and Cultural Infrastructure
The Church of Berthe: As the seat of the kingdom’s state-sponsored religion, the Church of Berthe serves as a central point of worship, hosting grand ceremonies for both the general populace and the royal family. The church is a monumental building, with vast halls for services, private chapels for nobles, and surrounding courtyards for public use.
Royal Post and Messenger Service
The Royal Post is an efficient, centralized system that ensures communication between the monarch and local officials, as well as between the capital and other cities within Berthe. Couriers, both on foot and on horseback, are stationed throughout the city and kingdom, making sure that vital messages are delivered swiftly.
Special Messengers: For the royal family and high-ranking officials, special couriers bearing the royal seal are employed. These messengers are trusted with sensitive political and military information and are given priority access across the city.
Security and Surveillance
The City Watch: Responsible for maintaining public order, the City Watch patrols the streets and keeps an eye on any potential threats. Members of the Watch are highly trained, often coming from noble families or having proven themselves in military service.
Watch Towers and Guard Posts: Along the walls and within key locations like the Tribunal of Truth, there are numerous watchtowers where the City Watch is stationed. These towers also monitor key roads, ensuring order and preventing unauthorized movements in and out of the city.
Spy Network and Informants: Given the city’s intricate political structure and the monarchy’s desire for security, a network of spies and informants is employed to report on possible dissent or subversive activity, both from within the city and across Berthe.
Districts
The Valour District
This district is the beating heart of Berthe’s entertainment and martial prowess, a place where people come to witness feats of strength, strategy, and skill. The Arena of Valor is the centerpiece of this district, but it’s far more than just a coliseum. The district is filled with training grounds, practice arenas, and merchant stalls selling everything from weapons and armor to trinkets and mementos. The streets are lined with taverns and inns catering to travelers who come to witness the great gladiatorial games, martial contests, and large-scale tournaments held throughout the year. Spectators from all walks of life flock to the district to cheer for their favorite champions, and the atmosphere is always charged with excitement and competition.
The Tribunal District
This district is the political and judicial heart of the kingdom. It is where the law is made, debated, and enforced. At its center stands the Tribunal of Truth, a massive structure that is not only the highest court in the land but also a symbol of the kingdom's dedication to justice and fairness. The Tribunal is both a courthouse and a legislative chamber where decisions regarding governance, criminal trials, and even royal decrees are decided. The district is carefully arranged to reflect the importance of law and order, with imposing buildings and statues dedicated to fairness and integrity.
The Old District
The Old District is the heart of Berthe’s historical origins, a place where the city’s first settlers built their homes and founded the kingdom. It is a district steeped in the ancient memories of Berthe, preserving its oldest structures and sacred sites. While much of the city has evolved and expanded over the centuries, The Old District still retains its humble charm, with narrow streets, weathered stone buildings, and a distinct, old-world atmosphere. Despite being overshadowed by the newer districts, The Old District is a cherished and often quiet place where history and reverence coexist.
The Lower District
The Lower District is the working-class area of Berthe. It is home to the poorer, less fortunate residents who make up a large part of the city’s labor force. Though a bit rough around the edges, The Lower District is also full of life, with thriving community centers, taverns, and marketplaces catering to those living in its shadows.
The Enclave
This district is reserved for the city’s most powerful and wealthy, including influential merchants and foreign diplomats. It’s an exclusive and private part of the city, full of gated estates, hidden mansions, and luxurious gardens.
Sanctum District
Home to the churches and shrines dedicated to the Church of Berthe, this district is filled with towering spires, intricate mosaics, and altars dedicated to the worship of God.
Ironhold District
This district is a hub of industry, craftsmanship, and manual labor. It’s home to the blacksmiths, tanners, masons, and other tradespeople who help maintain the city’s infrastructure and economy. Though not as glamorous as other districts, it’s a vital part of the city's function and is populated by commoners and skilled workers.
Dockhaven District
This district is dedicated to trade, transportation, and the bustling flow of goods along the river.
Crownspire District
The heart of political and royal power, this district is home to the Royal Citadel of Berthe, the Hall of Oaths, and various palaces and residences for the nobility. The district is heavily fortified, with towering walls and grand gates that only allow access to those with the proper clearance.
Points of interest
The Royal Citadel of Berthe
The heart of political power in Berthe, the Royal Citadel sits atop a hill in the Crownspire District, commanding a breathtaking view of the capital. It is the royal residence, the seat of government, and the epicenter of Berthe’s political life.
The Citadel houses the throne room, royal chambers, and the offices of key government officials. It’s the site of royal events, ceremonial occasions, and key decisions made by the monarch.
The Tribunal of Truth
Located within the Tribunal District, the Tribunal of Truth is the highest judicial body in the capital. A grand structure of marble and stone, it houses the council of judges who serve as both the city’s courts and advisors to the monarch.
It is where the city’s most important legal decisions are made, as well as where any dispute between noble houses or powerful individuals is settled. The Tribunal is also the seat of the Court of Justice.
The Arena of Valour
A massive coliseum situated in the Valour District, the Arena of Valor is used for gladiatorial combat, jousting tournaments, and public celebrations of military victories. It’s an iconic symbol of Berthe’s martial prowess.
The Arena is central to the city’s entertainment and public life. Citizens from all walks of life gather here to watch displays of strength and skill. It’s also a place where nobility and commoners alike experience the city’s martial pride.
The Church of Berthe
The most important religious institution in the capital, the Church of Berthe is located in Sanctum Quarter. Its soaring spires and beautiful stained-glass windows symbolize the unity of the kingdom and the royal family’s divine right to rule.
The Church serves as the center for religious ceremonies, mass, and rituals, particularly those involving the royal family. It is also the site for important religious holidays and gatherings of the faithful, reinforcing the monarchy's connection to the divine.
The Iron Bastion
This massive fortress is located on the outskirts of the Ironhold District, serving as the capital’s main defense center. It houses the city’s most elite military forces and is the command center for the city's defense strategy.
The Iron Bastion is a symbol of Berthe’s strength and military readiness. It is heavily fortified and contains training grounds, armories, and barracks. The Warden of the Watch oversees the defenses from here.
The Red Basilica
Found in the Old District, the Red Basilica is an ancient and revered site where followers of the Pantheon of Gods still gather. This red-stone building remains a sacred space for a minority of the population who continue to adhere to the pre-Church of Berthe faiths of Berthe.
The Basilica is one of the few places in Berthe where the ancient traditions are kept alive. Though the majority of Berthe’s population follows the state religion, the Red Basilica remains a symbol of the kingdom’s spiritual history.
The Hall of Oaths
Located within the Crownspire District, the Hall of Oaths is an impressive building where nobles, military leaders, and citizens alike swear allegiance to the crown. Its stone walls are adorned with statues commemorating historical oaths and promises made to the monarchy.
The Hall holds significant political weight. It is where high-ranking officials take their vows of loyalty to the King, and it also serves as the venue for many state functions and important diplomatic events.
The Ironhold District
A bustling industrial district, Ironhold District is the hub for manufacturing, smithing, and artisan crafts. Here, the city’s armaments and tools are forged, and workshops buzz with activity day and night.
While its primary focus is industry, Ironhold also houses the homes of the city's working class and skilled artisans. It’s a place where the gears of the capital’s economy turn, providing weapons, tools, and crafts to both the city and the army.
Tourism
Political and Historical Tourism
The Red Basilica: Despite its smaller role compared to the state religion, the Red Basilica remains a significant cultural and spiritual site for those interested in the ancient religions of Berthe.
The Hall of Oaths: Guided tours show visitors where oaths of loyalty to the crown are taken, along with the history of notable oaths made throughout Berthe’s royal history.
The Church of Berthe
As the largest and most important religious site in the city, the Church of Berthe attracts pilgrims from across the kingdom. It is also a site for tourists interested in the kingdom's state religion and architecture.
Military and Tactical Tourism
The War Memorials in the Valor District: War memorials, statues, and preserved battlefields honor the valor of soldiers and generals throughout Berthe’s history.
Military Parades and Displays: Military parades take place regularly, showcasing Berthe’s army in full regalia. These events are attended by both the common folk and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the kingdom’s martial culture.
Geography
The capital city of Berthe is nestled along the River Lament, which winds through the heart of the city, dividing it into distinct districts. The city is built on a series of gently sloping hills, with the Royal Citadel perched atop the highest point, offering sweeping views of the surrounding lands.
Climate
Eternal Day
The most defining feature of the Grasslands (and the Day Realm as a whole) is the eternal daylight. In the Grasslands, the sun never sets, remaining fixed in the sky at a constant, high angle, casting soft, golden light over the land at all times.
Weather
The Grasslands are neither scorchingly hot nor cold, but the prolonged exposure to sunlight does impact the land’s ability to self-replenish. Occasionally, the skies can become overcast with thin clouds, creating brief periods of diffused light, but these are short-lived and rare.
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