City of Elidor, Weyland.
Who Rules: The Steward is an appointed official who is an agent of the crown and manages Bridges Market on a day-to-day basis, they reside in the Castle and a surrounded much like a King with a retinue and court to manage in the absence of the King. Urgent appeals and those that are deemed worthy are then sent to the King/Queen for their consideration.
Population: 90,000 (estimated) this increases to 130,000 during festivals.
Major Products: Lumber, Furs.
Armed Forces: 200 Regular Militia also act as the city police force. 200 Soldiers, 150 Archers, 200 Mercenaries, 100 Rangers, 50 Men at Arms, 20 Trooping Fey, 8 Clerics, 20 Knights, 2 Engineers, 10 Society Mages, 1 Arch Mage, 1 Knight Captain. Typically, 20-30 Adventurers in the city lend a hand when required. The Tenabe Merchant House in New Town also has 10 Samurai available upon request.
Features
Bridges Market is an enchanting and storied place, centered around an ancient Eldren single gothic arched bridge that appears to be carved from a single piece of pristine white stone. This remarkable bridge is impervious to the ravages of time, weathering, or damage, maintaining its flawless beauty through the ages. An intriguing feature of the bridge is the false stone door carved into its eastern side. This mysterious doorway only opens when a new candidate for High King presents themselves. Thousands have attempted to pass through it, but only a select few have succeeded, and even fewer have returned.
Bridges Market has emerged as the unofficial capital of Elidor, serving as its bustling trade hub. The town is home to a Motte and Bailey Castle, where the Steward resides and keeps rooms prepared for visits from the King or Queen of Elidor. The castle's strategic position adds to the market's prominence and importance.
Surrounding the city is a ring of Ward Stones, creating a mystical barrier that wards away malevolent forces. Thanks to these protective stones, Fey and the undead steer clear of the city, except on Hallows Nights when the barrier's power wanes.
In terms of religion, the spiritual landscape of Bridges Market is diverse and dynamic. The Pagan faith, long practiced in the region, now shares space with the worship of the Pantheon of Gods. Adding to this mix is the growing influence of the Church of the One God, whose preachers can be found on street corners and in the squares, calling for conversion and salvation. This blend of beliefs has fostered a community of worshippers who exhibit a notably tolerant and convivial attitude towards one another.
In summary, Bridges Market is a place of historical significance and mystical allure. It serves as the heart of Elidor's trade and governance, protected by Ward Stones and steeped in a rich tapestry of religious and cultural diversity. The presence of villages, towns, and castles each with unique characteristics, further enriches this captivating and essential part of Elidor.
Districts
High Town is dotted with numerous artisan workshops, temples, inns, taverns, and a multitude of shops. However, the market is plagued by the notorious Black Knife Gang, which poses a constant challenge to maintaining order. Although there is no official Adventurers Guild house in High Town, the "Fall from Grace" Inn serves as a de facto guild house, providing a gathering place for adventurers.
Notable inns in High Town include:
The Radiant Sun Inn: Located along the market street, this inn offers a simple yet comfortable respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
The Lion's Heart Inn: Situated by the northern gate, this fine-quality inn provides luxurious accommodations and excellent service.
Popular shops in the district include:
Master's Forge: Specializing in high-quality weapons and armor.
Silk & Spice Emporium: Offering exotic fabrics and rare spices.
Artisan’s Haven: A collection of handmade crafts and unique trinkets.
Eateries that are sure to delight include:
The Golden Platter: Known for its sumptuous and hearty meals.
Pies & Delights: A bakery renowned for its delicious pies and pastries.
The Savory Spoon: A beloved tavern serving a variety of traditional and flavorful dishes.
High Town's blend of cultural richness, economic activity, and architectural beauty makes it an essential and captivating part of Vale City.
Bridge Town, perched atop the mighty white stone bridge that spans the White River in a single graceful arch, is a bustling shantytown. This area is home to many of the poor from Bridge's Market. Bridge Town is notorious for its black market, where all manner of illicit goods can be found. Brothels, fighting pits, and gambling dens—outlawed in the rest of the city—thrive here. The Black Knife Gang exerts significant control over the district, adding an element of danger to its already rough reputation. Despite the presence of armed escorts providing relatively safe passage between High Town and Far Town, hold-ups are still a common occurrence. Despite its perils, Bridge Town remains a hub of underground activity and a stark reminder of the city's socio-economic divides.
Far Town, is an exclusive enclave for Vale City's wealthiest citizens. This self-contained community prides itself on its independence, relying on the city only for protection from external threats, a service for which they pay significant taxes. Despite their autonomy, Far Town plays a crucial role in the local economy by manufacturing and supplying the city's flour and much of its fresh local vegetable produce.
Notable establishments in Far Town include:
The Golden Harp Tavern: A luxurious tavern known for its refined atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
The Verdant Table: An elegant eatery offering gourmet meals crafted from the freshest local ingredients.
Far Town is also home to several prestigious shops, such as:
Finest Threads: Specializing in bespoke clothing and high-end fashion.
Harvest Goods: Offering a variety of fresh produce and artisanal products.
Antique Treasures: A boutique featuring rare and valuable antiques.
These establishments reflect the district's affluence and contribute to its self-sufficient and prestigious character.
Low Town, is a unique and intimate community primarily owned by Adventurers. While some choose to reside here permanently, many others own property and return as their travels permit. This district exudes an atmosphere of camaraderie and adventure, making it a vibrant part of Vale City. The Leaping Salmon Inn is a renowned establishment in Low Town, famous among visiting Adventurers for its warm hospitality and lively ambiance.
The district boasts several shops catering to the needs of its adventurous residents:
Gear & Garb: Offering high-quality adventuring equipment and apparel.
Potion Emporium: Specializing in potions, elixirs, and magical concoctions.
Smithy's Forge: A trusted blacksmith providing top-notch weapons and armor.
For those seeking a relaxing break, Low Town features delightful refreshment spots:
Brewed Awakenings: A cozy coffee shop known for its aromatic brews and pastries.
Tea Haven: A charming tea house offering a wide selection of teas and light snacks.
Low Town’s blend of permanent and transient adventurers, along with its welcoming inns, essential shops, and inviting refreshment spots, makes it a cherished community and a hub of activity within Vale City.
Newtown, is an unwalled district within Bridge's Market, nestled in a small valley surrounded by rolling hills. Safeguarded by the Ward Stones, it remains largely protected from the Fey and other malevolent forces. This charming district is home to a bustling day market, attracting residents from all over the city who come to buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other daily necessities. Despite its lively atmosphere, Newtown has no inns, as it primarily consists of common folk who work in High Town. The area is known for its close-knit community and peaceful environment, making it a desirable place for hardworking citizens to reside.
Old Town Ruins, abandoned and desolate, stand as a haunting reminder of the last known act of terrorism by the Minos Brotherhood. This once-thriving town is now in shambles, with the encroaching swamp slowly flooding its streets. During the day, it is deserted except for the usual swamp denizens. However, at night, it becomes a ghostly realm haunted by the spirits of those slain by the Brotherhood.
Notable ruins in Old Town include:
The Crumbling Cathedral: Once a place of worship, now a skeletal structure with ivy-covered walls.
The Shattered Marketplace: Formerly bustling with traders, now littered with broken stalls and debris.
The Collapsed Watchtower: A fallen sentinel, its stones scattered across the swampy ground.
The Haunted Manor: A large, decaying building said to be the epicenter of nightly hauntings.
These eerie sites add to the town's atmosphere of decay and mystery, making Old Town Ruins a place of somber reflection and ghostly activity.
Other Places of Note
The Temple of the Gods is found outside the city walls, it is home to the cities Necropolis.
Camp Grounds, stretching along the east wall of the city from the Temple of the Gods to Low Town, form a vast and sprawling area. This campground serves as a temporary home for transient visitors who set up their tents during the numerous festivals held throughout the year. The vibrant atmosphere is filled with a mix of cultures, stories, and the sounds of celebration. The campgrounds come alive with makeshift shelters, colorful banners, and the aroma of diverse foods being prepared. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together, adding to the festive spirit of Vale City.
The Fall from Grace Inn, located in High Town, may appear from the outside to be a dilapidated establishment, with holes in the roof, peeling paint, cracked plaster, and broken windows. However, once you step inside, it's an entirely different story. The interior is as grand as it can be, featuring marble floors, walnut-paneled walls, velvet drapes, and fine wood frame furniture. The facilities within the inn rival those of the prestigious Guild House in Marivel, providing an opulent and luxurious experience for its guests.
The menu at The Fall from Grace Inn offers a variety of delightful drinks and sumptuous food. Some popular drinks include:
Dragon's Breath Ale: A robust and hearty ale with a smoky finish.
Elven Wine: A light and fragrant wine with floral undertones.
Mystic Mead: A sweet and aromatic mead brewed with wildflowers.
Dwarven Stout: A rich and creamy stout with notes of coffee and chocolate.
The food menu features a selection of exquisite dishes, such as:
Roast Pheasant with Herb Stuffing: Tender pheasant roasted to perfection, served with a flavorful herb stuffing.
Mushroom and Truffle Risotto: A luxurious risotto made with wild mushrooms and truffles, offering a rich and earthy flavor.
Beef Wellington: Succulent beef wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, accompanied by a red wine reduction.
Seafood Platter: An assortment of fresh seafood, including shrimp, scallops, and lobster, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
The contrast between the inn's exterior and interior adds to its unique charm, making The Fall from Grace Inn a beloved destination for those seeking comfort, elegance, and a touch of surprise.