Phlox

In the midst of the scorching deserts of Dashan, where sun-baked bones appear to outnumber the grains of sand, one finds an oasis that gives nature itself a rather stern talking to. Phlox, the venerable capital of the Hathi, rises defiantly from the unforgiving terrain. This is no ordinary city, but a testament to the elephantine people's stubborn determination.

Phlox by Tillerz using MidJourney

Inhabitants

Phlox serves as the stomping ground for the Hathi, a tribe of elephant folk whose presence in these harsh lands stretches back to times lost in the sands of time. These colossal beings, bound by unyielding solidarity, are more than mere residents; they are the very soul of Phlox. Their community isn't just a passing fancy; it's a way of life ingrained deep within their marrow. The lives of these elephantine folks interweave like the roots of the mighty jungle that envelops their city. The heartbeat of Phlox is a harmonious rhythm where one's trials and triumphs become the collective experiences of all.

Phlox by Tillerz using MidJourney

Industry & Trade

A curious array of goods flows through the lively marketplace. One might think they've stumbled into a bazaar on a different plane altogether. The Hathi, with their colossal frames and wisdom etched into their very bones, are the architects of this unique commerce.

• Wooden musical instruments and music boxes, carved with care and imbued with melodies that seem to echo the soul of the jungle, are the siren call of Phlox.
• Pottery, unlike any other in Alana, boasts not only endurance but also a touch of whimsy as it depicts the fanciful creatures of the lush wilderness.
• Ropes and baskets woven from intricate jungle vines, as sturdy as they are beautiful, hold secrets known only to the Hathi.
• Bamboo furniture, with designs both practical and artistic, graces the homes of visitors and residents alike.
• Perfumes and potions, culled from the exotic flowers that bloom in every corner of the oasis, intoxicate the senses and heal the soul.
• Among these treasures, one finds the rarest and most expensive tea blends, coveted for their unique flavours and enchanting aromas.
• But perhaps the most coveted are the jewels, each stone hewn from the depths of Alana's earth, found nowhere else in the realm. They become exquisite pieces of jewellery, each with a story as ancient as the jungle itself.

Yet, it's the scrolls and books, with their pages filled with history, places, and people, that truly hold the heart of Phlox. Extracts from the vast library of this wondrous city are the threads that weave the tapestry of knowledge across the land, connecting the past, present, and future. The Hathi are the keepers of these scrolls, their wisdom flowing from ink to parchment, and from there, into the hearts and minds of those who seek the secrets of Alana.
No corner of the realm escapes the watchful eyes of the Hathi. From the darkest, dustiest corners of long-forgotten libraries to the heart of archaeological expeditions, a Hathi historian is never far away. Hathi historians transcribe ancient texts with such precision that they capture the very essence of the original work on each page. Collecting fragments of the past, they bundle up scrolls, books, and sheets with exact copies of imagery. With unwavering dedication, they make their solemn pilgrimage back to the hallowed library of Phlox. Within its walls, the historians deposit their findings, adding to the vast repository of wisdom that spans generations.

Tourism

In the heart of an endless desert, where visitors are about as common as flying pigs, Phlox finds itself in splendid isolation. It's a place where those fortunate enough to step upon its sun-baked streets are almost invariably shadowed by the lumbering presence of a Hathi, or two if they're feeling particularly bold. The city's inhabitants have a peculiar fondness for hospitality, albeit of the rather assertive kind. Any lone soul wandering these streets is promptly intercepted and subjected to an interrogation as thorough as a dwarf inspecting gemstones.
The exception to this inquisitorial ritual is the sprawling marketplace, a bustling bazaar that spreads its chaotic charm through the heart of Phlox. Here, outsiders are left to navigate the labyrinthine lanes on their own, or perhaps it's the market that navigates them, for one is never quite sure in this city. The road leading to this vibrant hub from the main entrance is another rare slice of solitude, as if the city itself deems it worthy of temporary amnesty from the ever-watchful gaze of the Hathi.

Architecture

The architecture of Phlox is a tangible reflection of their unique harmony with nature. Towering stone structures blend seamlessly with the verdant jungle that cradles them. Lush foliage and robust vines weave through the city's foundations, as if the very buildings were sprouting from the earth beneath them. In Phlox, the boundaries between civilization and wilderness blur, creating an enchanting urban jungle.
Majestic edifices, adorned with intricate engravings that murmur ancient wisdom, reach skyward with a determination rivaling the towering palms of the jungle that surrounds them. Balconies adorned with trailing vines overlook bustling streets, where the Hathi navigate their daily lives with shared purpose.

Alana

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A world full of wonders.

Founding Date

340 PB

Alternative Name(s)

Emerald Oasis

Type

Metropolis

Location under

Dashan

Secrets known to any Hathi (Hathi may read):

This is GM information

The Masked Protectors: A clandestine group of Hathi, known as the "Masked Protectors," operate in the shadows to safeguard the city from external threats. They wear intricately carved masks representing various jungle creatures and carry out covert missions to ensure Phlox's safety.
The Labyrinthine Tunnels: Beneath the city's foundations lies a network of tunnels, some known and some forgotten over time. These passages serve various purposes, from secret escape routes in times of danger to hidden chambers that house valuable artifacts. Some believe that some tunnels even lead to other Hathi settlements.
The Forest's Whispers: Many believe that the jungle surrounding Phlox is sentient, whispering secrets to those who listen closely. Some Hathi claim to have communicated with the jungle itself, gaining insights into the city's future and impending challenges.
The Uncharted Depths of the Lake: The lakes around Phlox are known for their beauty, but their depths remain uncharted. Rumours persist of hidden caves and treasures lurking beneath the still waters. Some believe that these lakes may have connections to ancient underwater realms or hidden passages.

Other Secrets

This is GM information

The Secret Council of Elders: Beyond the public leadership of Phlox lies a clandestine council of the city's most respected elders. This council wields considerable influence over the city's decisions, even though its existence is not widely known. They convene in a hidden chamber deep within the jungle, making choices that can shape the city's destiny.
The Ancient Druid's Sanctuary: Nestled deep within the heart of the jungle, hidden from prying eyes, there exists a sacred sanctuary that only the most revered druids are privy to. This enigmatic place holds ancient relics, powerful spells, and the secrets to controlling the wild jungle that surrounds Phlox.
The Underground Aquifier: Phlox's water supply is no ordinary well or river. Deep beneath the city, there exists an underground aquifier producing crystal-clear water, sustaining the city's population even during the harshest droughts. Its location is known to very few, ensuring the city's survival.
The Mysterious Guardian Statues: Scattered throughout Phlox are ancient stone statues depicting powerful beings from Hathi mythology. These statues hold a secret: they are enchanted to protect the city. In times of dire need, these statues can come to life, defending Phlox with incredible strength and resilience.

Plot Hooks

The Missing Druid: A revered druid, known for maintaining the balance between Phlox and the jungle, has gone missing. The party is tasked with finding the druid and unravelling the mystery of their disappearance.
Jungle Intrusion: Reports surface of the jungle encroaching upon Phlox at an unprecedented rate. The party is enlisted to investigate the sudden aggression of the wilds. Are natural forces at play, or is something more sinister manipulating the jungle's expansion?
Aquifier Anomalies: The city's water supply has been dwindling, and strange occurrences have been observed near the underground aquifer. The party must venture beneath the city to investigate the source of these anomalies and ensure the water source's integrity.
Forest Whispers: Hathi, who claim to have heard the jungle speak, are deemed mad by many. However, one such Hathi approaches the adventurers, convinced that the jungle has whispered of an impending catastrophe. The party must discern whether this is a vision or a genuine warning.
The Guardian Statues Awaken: In a time of dire need, the ancient guardian statues begin to come to life, causing chaos within Phlox. The party must find a way to pacify these awakened protectors before they bring destruction to the city.