Second Dawn
Nestled in the heart of the continent of Arteria, the capital city stands as a shining beacon of power and order. Protected by towering walls and a mighty citadel, the city is a testament to the strength and might of the 4th Holy Empire.
At the heart of the city stands The Citadel, a massive fortress perched atop a hill. Its imposing walls, which rise to a height of 50 feet, are punctuated by guard towers every 150 feet, providing an unassailable bastion of defense against any would-be attackers. The Citadel is a sprawling complex of barracks, armories, training grounds, and administrative buildings, all under the watchful eye of the military complex led by Primus Levitas.
Surrounding The Citadel is the inner city, a bustling hub of commerce and activity. Enclosed by walls that rise 35 feet high and are punctuated by guard towers every 100 feet, the inner city is a hive of activity, filled with shops, taverns, and a large marketplace. Here, the guild hall of the Daybreakers can be found, where brave adventurers come to plan their next forays into the wilds of Arteria. The temple district is also located in the inner city, with a grand church dedicated to each of the ten deities.
Beyond the walls of the inner city lies the outer city, a vast expanse of streets and buildings that sprawl out in every direction. Here, the population of the city goes about their daily business, working in the city's many guilds or plying their trade in the bustling merchant district. The military district, home to the soldiers and officers of the 4th Holy Empire, is also located here, with barracks, armories, and training grounds standing ready to defend the city at a moment's notice. The river harbor is another important feature of the outer city, providing a vital link to the outside world and a bustling center of trade.
Across the river from the rest of the city lies the noble district, where the wealthiest and most powerful residents of the city make their homes. Here, grand mansions and estates stand amid carefully tended gardens and winding streets, a testament to the power and influence of the city's ruling elite. Nearby, the druid grove of the Emerald Enclave can be found, a peaceful oasis of nature in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
Throughout the city, massive outer walls rise to a height of 50 feet, punctuated by guard towers every 150 feet. Beyond the walls lie vast expanses of farmland and stables, providing the city with the resources it needs to thrive. Near the walls, a slum area has sprung up, home to those who have fallen on hard times or have no place in the rigid hierarchy of the city.
As adventurers from the Daybreakers Guild venture forth into the unknown wilds of Arteria, they are reminded of the might and power of the city they call home. And as they uncover the mysteries and dangers of this strange and ancient world, they are reminded that the safety and security of the city and its people depend on their bravery and skill. For the city stands as a shining beacon of hope in a wild and dangerous world, a testament to the power of civilization and the will of those who would protect it at all costs.
The Citadel
As one approaches the capital of Arteria, the first structure that catches the eye is the massive citadel standing atop a hill, surrounded by its own walls. The Citadel, with its imposing towers and domed central structure, is a testament to the might and power of the 4th Holy Empire. The Citadel itself is composed of five towers, four of which stand at the corners of the structure, while the fifth and largest tower, with its distinctive gold dome, stands at the center. The towers are tall and formidable, each rising to a height of at least 100 feet, with thick walls and narrow slits for archers and other ranged fighters to defend The Citadel from would-be attackers. The black and gold banners of the 4th Holy Empire flutter in the wind from atop the towers, signaling to all who approach that this is a place of power, of discipline, and of order. The walls of The Citadel, made of gray stone, are thick and formidable, with narrow windows and arrow slits carved into the stone to allow archers to rain arrows down upon any who dare attack. Adjacent to the main citadel tower stands another tall and impressive tower, the home of the Wizards Arcanum. This tower, with its black and gold decorations, stands tall and proud, a symbol of the powerful magic that serves the empire and its godemperor. The main citadel tower, with its gold dome and black stone walls, rises above the other towers, a beacon of strength and resilience. Inside, the floors are made of polished marble, and the walls are adorned with intricate murals depicting the history of the empire and its conquests. From the top of The Citadel, one can see the entire city laid out before them, the various districts and guild halls bustling with activity, and the walls of the city stretching out into the horizon, a reminder of the security and stability that the empire provides. Overall, The Citadel is a masterpiece of military engineering and design, a monument to the power and might of the 4th Holy Empire, and a symbol of the order and discipline that it imposes upon its subjects.Center City
The center city of Second Dawn is a bustling hub of commerce and activity, teeming with people from all walks of life. The focal point of the city is the central square, a large open space with a massive tree in the center. The tree is ancient and gnarled, with a trunk so wide that it takes several people holding hands to encircle it. Its branches stretch outwards, providing shade and shelter for the people gathered below. Surrounding the square are a variety of shops and buildings, catering to the needs of the city's inhabitants. The Alchemy Shop, Herbs and Concoctions, is a small store with shelves full of various ingredients and potions, the air around it heavy with the scent of herbs and spices. Nearby is The Iron Gauntlet, a blacksmith that produces all manner of weapons and armor, the sounds of hammering and clanging metal echoing through the streets. Randal's Goods is a general store, selling everything from food and clothing to farming equipment and weapons. Its proprietor, an elderly man named Randal, is known for his friendly demeanor and fair prices. The Enchanted Needle is a small tattoo shop, run by a group of skilled artisans who specialize in magical tattoos that imbue their wearers with various abilities and enhancements. In addition to these shops, there is also the guild hall of the Crimson Blade, a mercenary company that hires out its services to the highest bidder. The Crimson Blade is known for its skilled fighters and ruthless tactics, and many in the city fear and respect them in equal measure. Right opposite stands the guild hall of the Daybreakers. The Daybreakers Guild Hall is a grand building made of stone and wood located at the main square of the center city. It has a large sign with the guild's emblem of a rising sun in front of the entrance. The guild hall is a two-story building with a spacious main hall for guild meetings and events. The hall is decorated with banners and trophies from past missions and adventures. On the second floor, there are offices for the guild leaders and a training area for new members. The guild hall also has a small armory where the members can borrow equipment and gear for their missions. The building is well-guarded by members of the guild, and the entrance is only accessible to approved members and guests. All of these buildings are surrounded by a variety of taverns and inns, offering food, drink, and lodging to the many visitors and travelers passing through the city. The air is filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and conversation as people from all over Arteria come together to do business and socialize. As the sun sets, the square becomes even more alive, with the buildings and the tree itself illuminated by lanterns and magical lights. It is a beautiful sight, one that draws people from all over the city to marvel at the wonder and beauty of Second Dawn.Temple District
The Temple District is a magnificent area of the city, located at the eastern end of the central market square. The district is arranged in a circular fashion with ten temples of the Divine Ten, arranged around a large plaza made of stone plates arranged to represent a sun surrounding a large eye. The temples are each dedicated to one of the ten deities, and are grand structures made of marble and adorned with intricate carvings and statues. The plaza is also home to various fountains, gardens, and benches, making it a peaceful and serene spot for reflection and prayer. The Divine Ten are highly revered in the city, and their temples are among the most visited and cherished places in the city. The temples offer a wide range of services, from daily prayers to healing services and blessings. The faithful can be seen going to and fro between the temples, clad in their best attire, carrying offerings of incense and flowers. The overall atmosphere of the Temple District is one of solemnity and awe. The grandeur of the temples and the peacefulness of the plaza make it a truly special place in the city, and one that all visitors should make sure to visit.Temple of Sylvanus:
The temple of Sylvanus is a large, open-air structure with walls made of living plants and vines. The temple grounds are a lush, verdant forest that is home to many animals and birds. The temple itself is a natural-looking structure, with a thatched roof and wooden pillars carved to look like tree trunks. The temple is known for its healing and nature-based magic.Temple of Eldath:
The temple of Eldath is a peaceful, serene place surrounded by gardens and waterfalls. The temple is made of white marble and has a domed roof that lets in natural light. The temple grounds are home to many peaceful creatures like doves and butterflies. The temple is known for its healing and calming powers, and its clerics are often called upon to mediate disputes.Temple of Aerdrie Faenya:
The temple of Aerdrie Faenya is an elegant, towering structure made of white marble and crystal. The temple is shaped like a stylized bird in flight, and its spires seem to reach towards the sky. Inside, the temple is filled with the sound of rushing winds and the scent of the ocean. The temple is known for its power over the weather and its ability to help sailors navigate treacherous seas.Temple of Helm:
The temple of Helm is a fortress-like structure made of dark stone and iron. The temple is surrounded by walls and towers, and its entrance is guarded by armored knights. The temple is known for its protection magic and its dedication to the defense of Second Dawn.Temple of Waukeen:
The temple of Waukeen is a grand structure made of gold and ivory. The temple is filled with glittering treasures and works of art, and its clerics are dressed in fine silks and furs. The temple is known for its magical abilities to aid merchants and traders, and its clerics are often called upon to negotiate business deals.Temple of Kelemvor:
The temple of Kelemvor is a solemn, austere structure made of black stone. The temple is quiet and still, and its clerics wear simple black robes. The temple is known for its power over death and the afterlife, and its clerics often minister to the dying and help lay the dead to rest.Temple of Gond:
The temple of Gond is a busy, bustling workshop filled with clanking machinery and the smell of oil and smoke. The temple is home to many inventors and craftsmen, who work to create new inventions and perfect their craft. The temple is known for its magical abilities to aid craftsmen and its dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.Temple of Tyr:
The temple of Tyr is a stern, imposing structure made of stone and metal. The temple is dedicated to the ideals of justice and law, and its clerics are often called upon to act as judges and arbitrators. The temple is known for its magical abilities to aid in the pursuit of justice and its dedication to upholding the law.Temple of Mystra:
The temple of Mystra is a grand structure made of white marble and crystal. The temple is filled with books and scrolls, and its clerics are often seen studying arcane magic. The temple is known for its magical abilities to aid in the pursuit of knowledge and its dedication to the art of magic.Temple of Tempus:
The temple of Tempus is a large, rugged structure made of rough-hewn stone and timber. The temple is filled with weapons and shields, and its clerics are often seen training in combat.The Noble District
As you approach the Noble District, the narrow and crowded streets give way to wide and open avenues lined with tall trees and elaborate fountains. The buildings become more spaced out, with grand mansions and luxurious estates occupying large plots of land. The architecture here is impressive, with intricate stonework and ornate carvings adorning the facades of the buildings. The gardens surrounding the homes are lush and meticulously maintained, with vibrant flowers and exotic plants blooming in colorful displays. The air is thick with the sweet scent of jasmine and lavender. As you walk through the district, you can't help but notice the guards stationed at regular intervals, standing at attention in their polished armor. The Nobles here spare no expense in their security measures. Despite the grandeur of the neighborhood, there is a distinct feeling of exclusivity and privacy. The residents here are the wealthiest and most influential members of the city, and they prefer to keep to themselves. It's not uncommon to see carriages bearing coats of arms rolling past, or to catch glimpses of elegantly dressed nobles through the gates of their estates. The Noble District is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city, a peaceful oasis for those who can afford it.Government
The city is run by the military complex led by Primus Levitas. Every aspect of security and logistics within the Town is regulated by the military. Trade and Craftsmanship is handeled by individual shop owners and workers guild. However, Even for those separate aspects of the city life the military is highly involved in regulating what is being produced and who is allowed to to sell and buy goods for commercial purposes.
Guilds and Factions
Maps
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Second Dawn
Founders
Type
Large city
Population
75'000
Location under
Included Locations
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
Characters in Location
- Aldrin Steadfoot
- Alleara Deathtouch
- Archmage Bottle
- Ashenford Torinbow
- Braum Bronzeskin
- Captain Phoenix
- Colonel Resprin
- Colonel Vladimir Craslov
- General Secundus
- Glandriel
- Huldruin Grumblebeard
- Jonathan Copperstar
- Joshua Silverquill
- Kassandra Sethriss
- Kendra Samandez
- Klaus Hagen
- Laura Aden
- Legat Aureus
- Lierin Naera
- Major Herzogstein
- Ovar
- Primus Levitas
- Quill
- Randal Galhing
- Retgrand Shimmereye
- Roweena Treeblood
- Selena
- Sendrene
- Shiila S.
- Silas Caparacov
- Telbjörn Oakenarm
- The Archive
- Theldor Greyforest
- Urthegar Mukumash
- Varis Runetracker
- Victor Steamshaper
