Okarthellin

Okarthellin, located on the south east coast of The Forest, is known as the local "buried gem". While Okarthellin proper extends out to the surrounding jungle, the city itself is located underground in a cave system that opens out onto one of its famous beaches. Hugely popular with tourists, many of The Standing's wealthier residents own holiday homes in the region due to the ever-temperate climate, lush views, and the ruler's rather creative attitude towards tax collection.
Lady Ava Myrthirin, The Courteous, Queen of Okarthellin, rules with her daughter Lady Sora, from local inn and burlesque bar, The Dragon's Tale.

Demographics

Mostly forest and desert races, though many travellers from further afield have found work and welcome in the twisting tunnels of Okarthellin.

Government

Okarthellin is the capital of an independent state, governed by monarchy.

History

Lady Ava has presided over the lands of Okarthellin longer than the settlement has been officially established, offering her home to her daughter, and then her daughter's fellow refugees from the invasion of the Human Empire. Though the Empire did make some headway towards the coast once The Forest Council signed the treaty in 23509, no Human expedition successfully returned from the land that would become Okarthellin. The Forest Council officially recognised Okarthellin's independence in 23643, with the establishment of Queen Ava's territory and sovereignty. Not much is known of the land prior to Lady Ava's reign, but it is rumoured that the caverns were once the lair of a great dragon, before it was repurposed as a haven for those on the run.

Tourism

Okarthellin is very popular with denizens of The Standing looking to escape the dense cover and near perpetual-twilight of The Forest, and provides a view and climate that is wildly different to much of the surrounding lands. With temperatures that rarely vary from a balmy 27 degrees, clear skies, and an ever-present ocean breeze, the beach that lays at Okarthellin's front step is The place for tourists to spend time relaxing, exploring the ocean, and visting the sea-front shops. Ranging from sports equipment to beach supplies, souvenirs to local high fashion, the sea-front has much to keep you occupied. Wandering slightly inland, tourists find themselves stepping into the shelter of the cities glittering high street, populated with cafes, local wares, bars, and leading straight to the most famous inn, The Dragon's Tale. A classy establishment that offers drinks, dining, entertainments and Entertainment ;), The Dragon's Tale hosts nightly revues with acts performed by their beautfully talented hosts. The hosts themselves are as famous as the establishment for their wonderous ability to shift and change their appearance to suit your wildest wishes and deepest desires. And of course, all of this is presided over by the Queen herself Lady Ava Myrthirin, The Courteous. Watching from her royal balcony overseeing the main floor, it is tradition that all visitors present themselves to her during the course of their stay. Tourists be warned, she is much beloved by her people, and it is a rare visitor who can snub her without consequence, no matter their status or lack of it.

Architecture

While the cave system Okarthellin is built in is natural in origin, much work has been put in over the centuries to expand it to it's generous and impressive current side. Still, further work is being done the expand further into the rock in a effort to give those locals who live on the edges of the city more room. Many of the buildings have been carved straight from the rock itself, though as the land has been further developed many of the original structures were torn down and the walls were broken into stone for rebuilding. As such, most places are built in a distinct blocky style, that blends in with the surroundings behind the brightly decorated building fronts common close to the high street.

Founding Date

22004

Type

State

Location under

The Forest

Owner/Ruler

Lady Ava Myrthirin, The Courteous