Emberdaine, the capital of Aldion, reflects the harmonious nature of the nation's population. The city's architecture combines human with a bit of dwarven influences. Buildings are constructed from a blend of local stone, timber, and marble, adorned with intricate carvings and decorations that represent the different races that have come to call Aldion home. The city's streets are wide and well-maintained, with hanging gardens that symbolize the nation's rich agricultural heritage. Through the eras, Emberdaine has seen a lot of change and improvement. Started as a military outpost, now serves as the capital of Aldion and one of the largest and influencial cities of Arda.
Governing and Politics
Emberdaine is ruled by the royal bloodline, as is the tradition in Aldion. The monarch, is a respected leader who seeks to unite the populace and maintain the nation's status as a major power hub. The political landscape includes a council of advisors representing the various factions in Aldion, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard. However this is what it looks on the outside. In reality, the law is a tool used by the ruling elite to maintain control and suppress dissent. The monarchy, exercises an iron grip on the city. The government serves as a means to protect the interests of the noble class and maintain their privilege.
Urban Design
The city is strategically located at the near a river and at the center of the mainland, making it a vital trade hub. The city is divided into districts, each with its unique charm. The river that runs by Emberdaine serves as a natural barrier, with ornate bridges connecting the city to the northern part.
Districts
- The Riverside Market: A bustling hub for traders and merchants from all over Caldar, featuring goods from various lands.
- The Artisan's Quarter: Home to skilled craftsmen, who create exquisite wares, including the famous Aldion textiles and jewelry.
- The Unity Plaza: A central square where the various people come together for cultural exchange and festivities.
- The Slave's Quarter: A smaller part at the edge of the market, where slaves are often gathered to be sold.
- The Noble's Enclave: The royal palace and the residences of the elite, perched atop a hill overlooking the city.
Population:
Emberdaine boasts a large population, reflecting the nation's demographics. Humans make up roughly 75% of the inhabitants, while half-elves following with a 10%, 5% dwarves, and various other minorities making the remaining percentage. This unity adds to the city's unique character and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Entertainment:
The city hosts an array of cultural festivals that celebrate the different traditions. Such festivals usually take place in the Unity Plaza, featuring music, dance, and culinary delights. The city also boasts an impressive library known as the Archive of Unity, a repository of knowledge open to all. Emberdaine is renowned not only for its cultural and family-friendly festivities but also for its indulgent adult entertainment district, discreetly located within the Noble's Enclave. This exclusive area features a range of pleasure services that are sanctioned and regulated by the government. Within this designated district, visitors can find establishments offering various forms of adult entertainment, from elegant and refined to more exotic experiences. The government's involvement ensures the safety and well-being of both the workers and patrons, along with strict regulations to prevent exploitation. The district is known for its discretion and professionalism, attracting visitors from near and far who seek to explore a more sensual side of Emberdaine.
Slavery:
Debt Bondage: Individuals ensnared by crippling debts find themselves with no choice but to enter into a lifetime of servitude. The wealthy and powerful often manipulate lending practices, ensnaring the impoverished into this oppressive system. Criminal Punishment: Petty crimes, or even perceived offenses against the crown, can lead to swift sentencing into slavery. There is little room for due process, and those accused find themselves swiftly condemned to servitude. Prisoner of War: In times of war, captives are ruthlessly conscripted into slavery, with no consideration for international agreements or humane treatment. They become property of the state, with little hope for release.
Ownership and Rights: Slaves in Emberdaine are regarded as nothing more than property, stripped of basic rights. They are treated as expendable commodities, often subjected to brutal conditions, hard labor, and extreme cruelty. Work Assignments: Slaves are ruthlessly assigned to labor in dangerous conditions, be it in mines, on plantations, or other grueling tasks. Their lives are marked by relentless toil with no respite. Protection and Welfare: The government does not intervene to protect slaves' welfare, allowing owners to subject them to inhumane conditions and harsh treatment without consequence. Opportunities for Freedom: Freedom is a distant dream for slaves in Emberdaine. Debt bondage is rarely lifted, and sentences for criminal offenses often amount to lifelong servitude, with little chance of reprieve.