Holdras

Holdras is the capital city of the realm of Forbin. It sits at the mouth of the River Fahl where it reaches the Bay of Jalus. Holdras is known as the Golden City for the yellow and ochre hues of its architecture.

The city is home both to Forbin's ruler, Trybon Fane and to the High Abbess of the cult of Balcosh.

History

Power and politics

Government

Holdras is nominally part of the region of Jalussan, and so is officially under the rule of the Lord Guardian, Lady Kirra Frenmar. However, as the city is also the nation's capital - and the dwelling-place of the Golden King, Trybon Fane, this rule is somewhat tempered by realpolitik. In practice, the Lord Guardian oversees day-to-day governance, with interventions from the King on matters likely to affect the nation as a whole (such as defence).

Defence and security

The City Watch is led by Captain Voskar, a gruff and no-nonsense enforcer. Voskar ensures the peace in Holdras with an iron hand. Her reputation for impartiality and efficiency has earned her respect among both nobles and commoners.
There is occasional friction over jurisdictional issues between the City Watch and the Royal Guard, led by Commander Arnas at the Palace.

Holdras has high city walls, and three great gates (north, west, and south). Holdras maintains a standing armed force, garrisoned in a fortress on the northern wall.
The harbour, protected by a sweeping wall of stone that projects out into the Bay of Jalus, is home to much of the realm's naval fleet.

Other powers

The city is home to temples of most of the gods, and their priests hold significant influence in the city, particularly Mother Aylessia of the Cult of Balcosh Derann.

The city's merchant groups and labour organisations hold a lot of sway. There are many of these, including the Merchants' Guild, Artisans' Guild, and the Dockworkers' Association.

The Cult of the Hidden Hundred has a cell within the city. Its activities are directed by the cult's leader, Galeena Tev-Morrin.

Geography and environment

Local geography

The city lies along the final stretches of the River Fahl as it approaches the Bay of Jalus. The surrounding lands are flat and fertile, and home to many farming villages.

Design and architecture

City Districts

Holdras is a city divided by the mighty Fahl, with districts sprawling across both the north and south banks and onto two midstream islands. Each district reflects a distinct character, shaped by the city's history and its role as the heart of Forbin’s political, economic, and spiritual life.
To the north of the Fahl lies the district of Westgate, where the city’s westernmost gate leads out toward Irnassa and the Northern Marches. This area is a mix of modest homes, bustling inns, and lively taverns that cater to travelers entering the city. Near the gate, informal marketplaces spring up daily, creating a vibrant entryway filled with merchants, laborers, and the sounds of trade.
East of Westgate lies Highbridge, a district defined by affluence and intellectual endeavor. Elegant residences cluster along its well-maintained streets, home to nobles and learned professionals. The district is named for the High Bridge, a towering structure that connects it to the Isle of Hemad. Highbridge also houses the Mages’ Guild and the Engineers’ Guild, institutions vital to the city’s architectural and technological ingenuity. At the eastern edge of Highbridge stands the ruined Wizard’s Tower, its collapsed spire a lingering reminder of a magical calamity from ages past.
Further east lies Redmead, the artisan quarter of Holdras. Redmead is alive with the sounds of craftsmen at work, from glassblowers and potters to jewelers and blacksmiths. The Temple of Piatok rises near its center, serving as both a place of worship and a gathering point for artisans to seek inspiration and guidance. Redmead connects to the two northern bridges that span the Fahl, linking it to the bustling commercial island of Raldras.
At the city’s northeastern edge lies Northdock, a district dominated by trade in raw materials such as timber, ore, and stone. The docks are a hive of activity, with warehouses lining the waterfront and goods flowing in and out of the city. Nearby stands the Temple of Girys, modest in size but significant as a spiritual home for those who work with agricultural goods and natural resources.
On the southern bank of the Fahl, Fahlside forms a middle-class residential district with a strong sense of community. Its heart is the Fahl Plaza, a public square near the river that hosts gatherings and markets. The district is characterized by tidy homes, local shops, and workshops that cater to the needs of its residents.
Southeast of Fahlside lies Oxenwood, the commercial heart of Holdras. This district is a whirlwind of trade and activity, with merchants hawking goods from across Forbin and beyond. The Merchant’s Guild and the Artisan Guild oversee much of the district’s business, ensuring order amid the chaos. The Temple of Lessada, a grand structure dedicated to the goddess of commerce, is a focal point for traders seeking blessings for prosperity.
South of Oxenwood, Southdock handles the trade of foodstuffs, fabrics, and luxury goods. This district thrives on maritime commerce, with bustling quays and warehouses. The Temple of Jires sits prominently along the waterfront, offering solace and blessings to sailors and dockworkers alike. Overseeing the docks is the Harbourmistress, who commands operations from a small but strategically placed tower on the harbourside. A couple of streets away from the dock stands the mighty Petarrin Arena. The star of the show here in Forbin is Geffin Dabsann, a fast and elegant fighter.

Adjoining Oxenwood and Southdock is Amin’s Field, a densely packed, working-class district that houses laborers, dockhands, and their families. Narrow alleys and shared courtyards define this area, where informal markets and workshops provide for the everyday needs of its residents. To the west of Fahlside lies Aldrun Gardens, a small, tranquil district known for its contemplative atmosphere. The district is home to the Scholars’ Academy, a center of education and intellectual pursuit frequented by the city’s upper and middle classes. The eponymous gardens offer a serene retreat, with quiet pathways and shaded benches where residents and visitors alike can reflect and relax.
At the southernmost point of the city lies the Palace District, the political and spiritual heart of Holdras. Here, the Palace of the Golden King towers above its surroundings, a beacon of authority and history. The Golden Temple of Balcosh, resplendent in its gilded architecture, stands nearby as a focal point for worship and royal ceremonies. The Great Plaza stretches before the palace gates, an open space where official events and grand celebrations take place. On its southern edge stands the grand Golden Pools bathhouse. Surrounding these landmarks are the opulent homes of nobles and high-ranking officials, their grandeur a testament to the district’s prestige.
The two islands within the River Fahl are integral to Holdras’s character. The Isle of Hemad serves as a sanctuary of spirituality and learning. The Temple of Frenar, dedicated to the god of death and stars, dominates the island and is renowned for its associated school, which educates initiates in history, astronomy, and philosophy. Quiet gardens and meditation spaces contribute to the island’s serene atmosphere, making it a retreat for scholars and pilgrims. Hemad is connected to Highbridge and Raldras by bridges, ensuring its integration into the city’s bustling life. Raldras, the larger of the two islands, is a hub of commerce and governance. Its markets, government offices, and affluent residences make it one of the city’s most important areas. At its eastern tip stands the Riverwatch Tower, an imposing structure controlled by the Rivermaster, who oversees river traffic and enforces the laws of the Fahl. The tower’s strategic position allows it to monitor both trade and potential threats, making it a vital part of the city’s infrastructure.

City Infrastructure

The infrastructure of Holdras reflects the city’s role as both a capital and a trade hub. The Fahl is the lifeblood of the city, and its banks are reinforced with stone embankments to prevent erosion. Ten bridges span the river, connecting the districts and facilitating the flow of goods and people. The High Bridge and the two bridges linking Raldras to Redmead are high enough to allow tall ships to pass beneath, ensuring the smooth operation of river traffic. Public wells and private cisterns provide fresh water throughout the city, while rudimentary sewers serve wealthier areas, carrying waste away to protect against flooding and disease.
The docks in Northdock and Southdock are tailored to their respective trades, with specialized facilities for handling raw materials and finished goods. The Harbourmistress’s Tower and the Riverwatch Tower oversee maritime and riverine activities, ensuring that trade flows efficiently and lawfully. The city’s defenses include bastions at each of the three gates and along the riverbanks, though these structures have evolved more for display than active defense in recent years.

Architectural Style

The architecture of Holdras is defined by the yellow limestone quarried from the Bostin Hills, which lends the city its moniker, the Golden City. Buildings in wealthier districts often feature intricate carvings and gilded details, while simpler structures in working-class areas make use of timber and plaster. Roofs are typically tiled in shades of yellow and ochre, creating a cohesive and vibrant cityscape.
Temples and the palace are grandiose, characterized by tall columns, sweeping arches, and elaborate mosaics that depict the gods and the city’s history. Public squares and plazas are designed for large gatherings, with fountains and statues adding artistic flair. Residential architecture varies by district, with spacious courtyards and decorated interiors in affluent areas, and compact, utilitarian homes in poorer neighborhoods. Despite these differences, the city’s architecture maintains a sense of unity through its materials and craftsmanship, reflecting the pride and identity of Holdras’s people.

Landmarks and key locations

• The Palace of the Golden King: Situated in the Palace District on the southern bank of the Fahl, this grand palace is the residence of Trybon Fane, the Golden King of Forbin. Its sprawling grounds include courtyards, fountains, and opulent halls. The palace’s western facade opens onto the Golden Plaza, an expansive square used for royal ceremonies and public gatherings.
• The Golden Temple of Balcosh: Also located in the Palace District, this massive temple is dedicated to Balcosh, god of the sun and leadership. Its gilded dome and tall columns are visible from nearly every part of the city. Pilgrims and nobles alike gather here for worship, and it serves as a focal point for the city’s spiritual life.
• The Scholars’ Academy: Found in Aldrun Gardens, this prestigious center of learning is dedicated to history, philosophy, mathematics, and the arts. Its serene surroundings and meticulously kept gardens attract intellectuals and students from across Forbin, and its library is said to hold some of the oldest texts in the archipelago.
• The Isle of Hemad: A quiet retreat in the middle of the Fahl, this island houses the Temple of Frenar, dedicated to the god of death and stars. The temple’s attached school educates initiates in celestial studies, history, and the mysteries of the afterlife. The island is connected to both Highbridge and Raldras by bridges.
• The Temple of Piatok: Located in Redmead, this temple honours the god of craftsmanship and is a gathering point for the city’s artisans. Its sturdy, functional design reflects the values of its patron deity, and its workshops are used for demonstrations and training.
• The Merchants' Guildhall: Situated in Oxenwood, this impressive structure serves as the headquarters for the Merchant’s Guild. Its chambers are used for trade negotiations, dispute resolutions, and the regulation of commerce throughout Holdras and the surrounding region.
• The Artisan Guildhall: Found in Redmead, this guildhall is a hub for craftsmen and women, including potters, jewellers, and blacksmiths. It hosts exhibitions and workshops and plays a key role in the district’s vibrant community.
• The Northdock: This northern district is dominated by docks specializing in raw materials such as timber, ore, and stone. The Temple of Girys stands nearby, offering blessings to those who work with the land’s resources. The bustling quays and warehouses make Northdock a vital part of the city’s economy.
• The Southdock: On the southern bank of the Fahl, this district handles trade in foodstuffs, fabrics, and luxury goods. The Temple of Jires stands prominently along the waterfront, providing solace and blessings to sailors. The Harbourmistress oversees operations from her tower near the bustling docks.
• Petarrin Arena: Close to the Southdock stands the Petarrin Arena, the largest arena in Forbin.
• The Riverwatch Tower: Perched on the eastern tip of Raldras, this tower is controlled by the Rivermaster and serves as a watchpoint for monitoring river traffic. Its strategic position allows it to enforce trade laws and ensure safe navigation along the Fahl.
• The Ruined Wizard’s Tower: Located in Highbridge, this crumbling structure is all that remains of a once-magnificent magical tower destroyed during a long-forgotten disaster. Its eerie presence and mysterious aura attract curious scholars and adventurous visitors.
• The High Bridge: A towering marvel of engineering, the High Bridge spans the Fahl, connecting the Isle of Hemad to Highbridge on the northern bank. Its height allows tall ships to pass beneath, and its fortified design adds to the city’s defenses.
• The Great Plaza: Located in the Palace District, this vast open square lies before the Golden King’s Palace. It serves as the site for royal proclamations, festivals, and public celebrations, embodying the grandeur of Holdras.
• On the southern side of the Great Plaza stands the impressive facade of the Golden Pools bathhouse, with its high pillars.
• The Great Gates: The three gates of Holdras—West Gate, North Gate, and South Gate—mark the city’s main entry points. The West Gate, in Westgate, opens to the road toward Irnassa and the Northern Marches. The North Gate, in Redmead, leads to Mintrass and the Boswood. The South Gate, in Oxenwood, connects the city to Parroc and Fort Jalus. Each gate is reinforced by bastions and watchtowers, providing both defense and administrative oversight.

Transport

Holdras’s position on the River Fahl and near the Bay of Jalus makes it a vital hub for trade and travel across the Realm of Forbin and beyond. Ships navigate the River Fahl to and from the city’s Northdock and Southdock, carrying goods to the Bay of Jalus and out into the Sea of Fair Winds. From there, maritime routes connect Holdras to the ports of Teros, Mar Miskun, Mar Mabon, and the Seynan Islands. The docks teem with activity as cargoes of metal, timber, grain, and luxury goods like perfumes and glassware flow in and out of the city.
Overland, the city’s road network ensures that goods and travelers can reach every corner of Forbin. The West Gate opens onto the road to Bachis in the Bostin Hills and continuing toward Whitevale and the Northern Marches. This route is critical for trade in ore, stone, and northern wares. From the North Gate, a road leads northeast to the port city of Mintrass, one of Forbin’s most important maritime trade centers, situated along the coast of Bostin.
The South Gate provides access to the fertile plains of Jalussan and the road to Pudras in Parroc, an essential connection for agricultural goods, livestock, and trade with the southern regions. Travelers and caravans frequently pass through these gates, stopping at Holdras’s inns and caravanserai before continuing their journeys.

Demographics

Population

Holdras has a total population of approximately 190,700.

Wealth and class

Education

Economy

Holdras is particularly noted for its glassware and leather goods.

Key industries

Holdras produces the following:

• Brass
• Bronze
• Steel
• Stone (limestone)
• Glass and Glassware
• Oil
• Tallow and fats
• Arable crops (grain, cereals)
• Fish
• Wine
• Herbs (particularly pryval leaves)
• Salt
• Jewellery
• Painted art
• Carvings and statuary
• Pottery and ceramics
• Aromatic resins (incense)
• Perfumes
• Weapons and armour
• Musical instruments
• Leather goods
• Woven fabrics and silks
• Wool
• Paper
• Rope
• Dyes, inks, and paints

Trade

As well as being Forbin's seat of government, the city is also the realm's largest port. Ships arrive from the Seynan Islands, Teros, Mar Miskun and Mar Mabon.
Trade with other towns and cities in Forbin is carried by road, notably with Irnassa to the northwest, Mintrass to the northeast, Olbrint to the southwest, and Gilrimmon further to the west.

Key imports

Key exports

Culture

Notable people

Alternative Name(s)

The Golden City

Type

Capital

Population

190700

Location under

Great Forbin

Included Locations

• Guildhall of the Merchants of Holdras

Owner/Ruler

Trybon Fane

Ruling/Owning Rank

Golden King

Owning Organization

Realm of Forbin