The Garden of Refuge

In the heart of Bridgeport, the Garden of Refuge provides a quiet escape from the city's constant activity. Surrounded by sturdy stone walls that block out much of the noise, this peaceful haven features winding cobblestone paths, well-tended flower beds, and shaded spots beneath tall oak and maple trees. Benches made of polished wood are scattered throughout, offering visitors a place to rest and soak in the tranquillity. At the centre, a marble fountain murmurs softly, its water flowing from a carved figure that symbolises peace and renewal.

Purpose

The Garden of Refuge is a sanctuary for all. Whether you're a traveller in need of a break, a merchant between deals, or simply someone looking for a moment of calm, this garden welcomes everyone. It’s a place where the stresses of the city can be left behind, if only for a little while. The gates are never locked, making it accessible at any time, day or night.

Flora

The garden is alive with colour throughout the year. Spring brings the sweet scents of jasmine and lilac, followed by the vibrant blooms of roses, marigolds, and lavender in the summer. As autumn arrives, the trees and plants turn a warm palette of golds, reds, and oranges, and even in winter, the garden's beauty persists with a quiet, frosty charm.
Moonlit Blossoms: Certain flowers in the garden, known as Lunar Lilies, only bloom under the light of the full moon. Their petals glow with a soft, silvery light, creating a breathtaking scene that feels almost otherworldly.

Bridgeport City Guide

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Bridgeport

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The map of Bridgeport, a harbour city located in the south of Farenia, showcases a maritime center characterized by vibrant activity and bustling trade.

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Bridgeport

Garden of Refuge by Tillerz using MJ

Fauna

While the garden is primarily known for its plants, it’s also a haven for small wildlife. Birds often nest in the tall trees, and squirrels can be seen darting across the paths. In the evenings, you might spot hedgehogs and other small creatures making their way through the underbrush. The garden’s quiet and safety make it a favourite spot for these creatures, adding to the sense of peace.

Localized Phenomena

Birdsong Chorus: At exactly noon every day, the birds in the garden join together in a harmonious chorus. The timing and coordination are so precise that some speculate the birds are under the influence of an ancient charm placed on the garden.
Echoing Steps: In certain areas of the garden, footsteps echo strangely, as if multiple people are walking in sync with the original steps. This phenomenon has sparked many ghost stories among locals, though no spirits have ever been seen.
Petal Rain: During late spring, a natural phenomenon occurs where the garden's trees shed their blossoms in a cascade of petals, resembling a gentle rain. This event only lasts a few minutes and is believed to bring positive fortune.
Seasonal Mists: On the first day of each season, a thick mist rolls into the garden at dawn, enveloping it in a mysterious fog. It’s said that during these mists, time feels slower, and the garden takes on an almost ethereal quality.

Garden of Refuge by Tillerz using MJ

Rumours

Some say there are hidden alcoves within the walls, accessible only to those who know where to look. Others whisper of an underground chamber beneath the fountain, said to contain ancient relics from the city’s past. There are also rumours that the garden was built on a site of magical significance and that certain plants within it have unique properties known only to a select few.
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