Pontus Tinigal
Pontus Tinigal is the capital city of the Kingdom of Oceanus, as well as the largest settlement on Pontos island. Founded as a colonial province of the Kingdom of Foere in the year 2765 I.R, Pontus Tinigal functioned for centuries as a largely autonomous governing body given its distance from the Foere power center, a position that was leveraged by Grand Admiral Maximilian d’Varago Pontos in his daring rebellion against the Overking.
Defense & Justice
Oceanus' navy is its sole military entity, with no need for a standing army as an island nation. All enlisted soldiers not serving as crew on a sailing ship are trained as naval infantry and given instruction on how to fight efficiently on both sea and land. Oceanus Marines are feared by many pirates throughout the Gulf of Akados. There is a single royally-sponsored chivalric order in Oceanus; the Order of the Oceans Blue, headquartered in Pontus Tinigal. Knights of the Oceans Blue almost exclusively dedicate their service to the kingdom's ruler, serving as their bodyguards until retirement. Knights of the Ocean Blue will very rarely be deployed for missions beyond this scope. The traditional armaments of this knightly order include Mariner's Plate Armor to allow them to maneuver underwater while fully armored, and Shields of Cold Resistance to protect against water and cold-based magics often employed by sahuagin and other marine foes. Local defense is handed by a standing force of marines, supplemented by an enlisted city watch and occasional hiring of mercenary companies when pirate incursions are at unusually high levels. As an island city surrounded on all sides by water and mountains, Pontus Tinigal forgoes traditional fortifications and instead fields watchtowers laden with cannons and combustible materials to deter enemy vessels.Architecture
The buildings and structures in Pontus Tinigal are famous for their stark white flagstone construction and their blood red roofs. Volcanic rock and locally quarried marble are also used as construction accents, giving Pontian architecture a very bright and striking appearance. Pontus Tinigal's docks are constructed of firm, strong teak wood gathered from the inland forests. This wood often weathers to a silvery, dusty color, causing the docks to match the stark white coloration of the nearby buildings.Geography
Pontus Tinigal rests on the southern tip of Pontos Island, a now-dormant volcanic island. The island sports a temperamental climate prone to extreme swings; summers are sweltering and vicious, while winters bring dense fog and even occasional snowfall. Notable geographic features include sandbars dotted with shallow lagoons, as well as groupings of basalt columns on some parts of the coast. The city itself is nestled between two small mountain ranges on the eastern and western sides, the easternmost mountains being collectively known as the Amber Mantle. The northern end of the city is build around the Pontos River which feeds out into the harbor; upon a river delta in this region sits the formidable Almanza Citadel.Locations
1: Temple of Anumon
The third oldest temple in the city, a structure of aged marble resting in the northwestern portion of Pontus Tinigal. Dedicated to Anumon , a creator god and deity of law, this temple saw frequent vandalism and a decline in upkeep in the waning days of the d'Velas dynasty.2: Liberation Memorial
This massive marble wall is inscribed with the names of every soldier who fought and died against the forces of the Overking to liberate Oceanus as an independent power, and is a national treasure of the people of Oceanus. It is sometimes utilized in somber memorial services, and marines of Pontus Tinigal often pray to the wall before departing for battle.3: Almanza Citadel
This intimidating islet fortress is built on a river delta near the mouth of the River Pontos, and is the most defensible structure in Pontus Tinigal. It was built to prevent incursions from the city's vulnerable northern side, where it is difficult to field ships of war. The Citadel boasts an array of powerful black powder cannons, an extensive tunnel network linking it to nearby barracks and stores of wartime rations, and a fortified shelter for the royal family in times of emergency.4: Temple of Vanitthu
A newer temple sitting at the foot of the Steps of Faith, dedicated to Vanitthu, God of the Steadfast Guard. It was constructed specifically to provide views of the Liberation Memorial across the River Pontos, to remind all defenders of Pontus Tinigal what it is they fight for.5:The Steps of Faith
The northernmost district of Pontus Tinigal, the Steps of Faith is a somewhat steep incline leading up to the nearby Temple of Solanus and is one of the poorest sections of the city, save for the docks themselves. This district was originally settled by traveling pilgrims staying in Pontus Tinigal in between legs of seafaring journeys, giving the area its name. Today it is inhabited by destitute citizens living in hovels and seeking alms from the Temple of Solanus, as well as workers in the nearby Gem Pits.6:Temple of Solanus
Dedicated to Solanus, Goddess of the Sun and Healing, this is the second oldest temple in Pontus Tinigal. Solanus enjoys a steady influx of followers in nearly every civilized locale in Lloegyr, and Pontus Tinigal is no exception. The priesthood of Solanus dedicate much of their efforts to providing for the people of the Steps of Faith, who settle on their doorstep seeking respite from their economic troubles.7: The Gem Pits
This deep network of caverns once housed a great horde of mineral wealth, bestowing upon spelunkers an overflowing supply of jewels and gems. The pits themselves have since been mostly tapped completely of their mineral wealth and mining has moved to other locations, but the occasional vein of precious metals or usable gems are sometimes found, and thus workers are sent into the increasingly deep and dangerous depths to scour the earth for the last vestiges of riches.8: Saint Fentan's Amphitheater
This amphitheater was constructed in the memory of Ser Fentan, the first halfling to be knighted in service of the Overking and a devout follower of Solanus. Although an enemy of Oceanus in her time, her status as a folk hero endured. This open-air theater is constructed of marble, and was practically carved out of a small quarry.9: The Stormgate
This gate serves as the last line of defense for the common folk of Pontus Tinigal in times of strife and war, when they are gathered up and evacuated into the underground sanctums beyond the gate. Two metal rods atop each spire of the gate attract bolts of lightning during storms, the energy of which are then used to power arcane ballistae capable of firing lightning bolts of their own.10: The Ashen Triad Prison
Surrounding this prison is its namesake, a trio of grey stone towers from which wardens can observe the imprisoned at all hours. Prisoners are often subject to backbreaking labor, and freedom is often exchanged for indentured servitude under the heels of the nobility.11: De Valtos Woodlands
These dense woods encroach further into the mainland, and are considered a dangerous trek for landborne traders. Most trade traffic on Pontos Island takes place by boat, making these woods unmaintained, rarely traveled, and disturbingly quiet.12: Caer Tinigal
This towering building serves as the palace and seat of power of the reigning monarch of Oceanus. Originally built as a residence for the Overking himself, it is one of the oldest structures in the city, and its towers are often some of the first things spied by visitors crossing the threshold of the Blue Gate.13: The Low Lantern
Once a merchant galleon, this ship has been converted into a permanently anchored tavern, and is one of the most popular watering holes for the folks of Pontus Tinigal. It is a renowned adventurer's haven and the starting point of many tropical excursions for wealth and glory.14: Hall of the Order of the Oceans Blue
This building, a mix between a monastery and barracks, is the headquarters for the Knights of the Oceans Blue. At its heart is a well-guarded teleportation circle, which serves to spirit away knights directly to Caer Tinigal in times of emergency.15: Fizzlestick's World of Sizzling Zazzle Frazzers
The eccentric gnome known as Fizzlestick operates this bizarre magic shop, in which everything from scrolls to staves to sorcerous sundries can be purchased. Its labyrinthine shelves house long forgotten curios, whose price tags intimidate all but the most affluent of nobles and adventurers.16: The Grand Admiral's Waygate
One of many structures erected in the honor of the first King of Oceanus, this waygate collects tolls from travelers coming from the De Valtos Woodlands, and keeps an eye out for dangerous, roaming monsters getting too close to the city.17: Pontos Colosseum
All contests of martial prowess and athletic ability are held at this Colosseum, constructed in the old Hyperborean tradition. Pontus Tinigal is home to real bloodsport and gladiatorial combat, enticing visitors from settlements that ban such entertainment.18: Three Wells Court
A large canopy upheld by three pillars shields the city's most active marketplace at this open-air courtyard. Although the High Market provides higher-quality (and higher-priced) goods, it cannot compete with the volume of foot traffic seen by the Three Wells Court. The Court is named after the three water wells on the city's mainland section.19: The Marble Gardens
This building is the largest museum in Pontus Tinigal, and is home to marble statues and artworks crafted by masters of of sculpting. Mind-bending, gravity-defying works of beautiful white stone delight the eyes of thousands of visitors each day.20: The Amber Mantle
The easternmost mountain range surrounding Pontus Tinigal. This series of (relatively short) mountains receives its name from the rising of the sun each morning, bathing the city in rays of amber-colored light creeping over the mountain peaks. The noble family Ambermantle derives their name from this sight, which has inspired works of art in many forms over the years.21: Corthala Lagoon
This large lagoon feeds into the nearby ocean and is trimmed by walls of basalt columns, making it one of the most peculiar geographic features of the area. The low waters and soft ground make the area unsuitable for construction, however, and the area is also known to attract marine monsters looking to prey upon one another. A single watch outpost has been erected on the eastern side of the Amber Mantle to keep watch for particularly large creatures approaching the city and its roads too closely.22: The High Market
An indoor market connected directly to a trio of piers, allowing for ships to dock nearby and unload directly into the inventories of resident merchants. This market is frequented by the higher-class citizens of Pontus Tinigal, who acquire their rare luxury imports here.23: Temple of Dame Torren
The newest temple in Pontus Tinigal, constructed by migrant priests from Bards Gate to honor Dame Torren, Goddess of the Four Winds. A standing force of Paladins sworn to the Goddess stands guard over the temple against Oceanus-sworn nationalists who decry the presence of a deity of Bard's Gate in their city, particularly so close to the holy home of Quell.24: Temple of Quell
The oldest temple in the city and perhaps the oldest standing structure on Pontos Island, this temple is dedicated to Quell, The Sea King, Lord of the Blue and chief deity of Oceanus. All manor of seafaring folk visit the temple each day to pray for safe passage and calm skies. High-ranking clergy of this temple wield significant political power in Pontus Tinigal.25: Havarian Harbor
Named after Saemon Havarian, a pioneering seafaring merchant of controversial renown, this harbor sees the lion's share of Oceanus' maritime traffic. Hundreds of ships embark and weigh anchor at the strong teak piers, which serve as the gateway to the wonders of the central portion of the city; as well as the destitute slums of the southeastern end.26: Saemon & Sons Shipwrights
Founded by Saemon Havarian and maintained by his descendants, this Shipwright constructs a great many of the seafaring vessels sailing in service to Oceanus. While other shipmakers may claim greater quality, none can match the volume constructed by Saemon & Sons.27: Ambermantle Manor
This elaborate cliffside manor is the ancestral home of the Ambermantle family, an Oceander Clan that also served as one of the founding families of Revelmoore to the north. The fortified and well-defended manor is maintained as of the year 3522 I.R. by Excella Ambermantle, the dowager-matron of the Ambermantle family, and also served as the headquarters of Dagult Ambermantle himself during his rebellion against the d'Velas dynasty.28: The Blue Gate
This massive archway of wrought silver was crafted by an array of mages in service to the Overking centuries ago, and mirrors the cerulean waters below while simultaneously reflecting off of the same waves to evoke the image of a circular portal leading into the city of Pontus Tinigal. It can be seen from nearly any point in the city, and is the first sign of the city's proximity for seafarers seeking its safe waters.29: Quell's Gaze Lighthouse
This lighthouse brightens the night for approaching vessels, and is guarded by a detachment of Knights of the Oceans Blue to ensure its continued operation. The military guards it zealously, as its loss would spell disaster for the city's lifeblood of trade.30: Kapichi Point
This otherwise unremarkable rock is marked by a large banner bearing the flag of Oceanus, and was the site of the pivotal Battle of Kapichi Point in which the Grand Admiral Pontos defeated the forces of the Overking centuries ago, freeing Oceanus as a sovereign state in the process.
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