The Masquerade

The Masquerade, the flying city of art, splendor, and ambition, serves as the seat of power for Celeste, the Goddess of Art, Hearth, and War. Founded by the demigod Seraphina, the city was initially carried on the back of a colossal swamp snail known as Amanita.

The Old Masquerade atop the back of the great snail Amanita

History

Seraphina, an offspring of Celeste, had an affinity for the elusive and elusive creatures of the world. Inspired by the patience and resilience of the humble snail, she sought out Amanita, a creature of mythic proportions, dwelling in the mystic swamps of the Leste Province. The demigoddess then created the Masquerade on Amanita's shell, harnessing the snail's unique magic to give life to the floating city.
Unfortunately, Amanita was lost during the Predawn Urye incident, sacrificing itself to protect the city. The Masquerade was rebuilt upon the skeletal frame of a massive airship, taking on a new form and a new journey across Konran's skies.
The new Masquerade has evolved from a city that traveled through swamps to a global sensation. Its competitions and auditions are now accessible to talents everywhere, not restricted to a single province.

The Celestial Citadel

At the center of the Masquerade, rising high above the surrounding cityscape, stands the magnificent Cathedral of Celeste. This architectural masterpiece, known as the Elysium Atrium, is a marvel that perfectly encapsulates the city's marriage of ancient Roman aesthetics with modern fantasy and cyberpunk elements.
Built predominantly with white marble, the cathedral is a large rectangular structure, much like the Basilica of ancient Rome, topped with a series of domes and arches reminiscent of the Roman Pantheon. It is flanked by two towering marble columns, the Columns of Celestial Harmony, that appear as if they're supporting the heavens themselves.
Entering the Elysium Atrium, one steps through an imposing archway, its keystone adorned with meticulously crafted celestial symbols. The grand entrance is flanked by two large bronze doors inlaid with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from Celeste's mythology in an art nouveau style.
Inside, the cathedral is adorned with beautiful mosaics that cover the vaulted ceilings and arches, showcasing the goddess Celeste's realms of art, hearth, and warfare. Multi-colored crystal chandeliers hang from the domes, refracting sunlight into a riot of colors, bathing the interior in a mesmerizing, ethereal light.
The nave of the cathedral is flanked by a series of marble statues, standing tall as the silent guardians of the sanctuary. Each statue is a masterfully crafted representation of Celeste's soldiers, the Stone Enclave. With the potential to come to life in times of need, these statues serve a dual purpose as both architectural embellishments and guardians of the city.
At the far end of the cathedral stands a grand altar, a towering monolith of pure white marble, etched with runes and symbols. Above the altar is a massive stained glass window, its design a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes forming the depiction of Celeste herself, inspiring awe in all who witness it.
The cathedral's cyberpunk elements are subtly infused throughout. Subtle lines of neon lights run along the edges of the building and the interior arches, while soft, ambient music and sounds echo throughout, controlled by unseen, advanced technology. Holographic displays project celestial scenes onto the domes, creating a sense of floating amidst the stars.
Located centrally in relation to the districts, the cathedral functions as the city's spiritual, cultural, and intellectual core. With the Artisan's District to the east, the Academia to the west, the Hearth District to the south, and the Leisure District to the north, the cathedral is easily accessible from all parts of the city, standing as a beacon of Celeste's teachings, guiding all who dwell in the Masquerade.

The Citadel: Heart of Aspirations

The Citadel, an architectural marvel within The Masquerade, functions as the primary audition hall for the city. This impressive structure is built with a combination of Grandeur Gothic and fantastical styles, with its lofty spires reaching for the sky, echoing the ambitions of those who seek to prove their skills within its hallowed halls.
The Citadel, known to some as the "Stage of Dreams," buzzes with energy as it hosts a never-ending series of auditions, interviews, and challenges. Aspiring performers from all corners of Celeste come to this place, brimming with hope and determination, ready to face rigorous trials that will test their potential and talent.
Inside, the Citadel is a labyrinth of audition rooms, each designed to cater to a specific performance type. There are grand stages for theatrical auditions, cozy rooms for musicians, vast arenas for dancers, and even magical chambers for illusionists and enchanters. Each space is enchanted to mimic the conditions performers might encounter, offering a realistic environment for auditions.
The Citadel operates in collaboration with the Church of Celeste, and together, they grade and license the performers and tradesmen who pass their auditions. Each individual is evaluated based on their proficiency, creativity, and dedication, and is given a star rating from one to five. Establishments opened by these individuals also carry this star rating, establishing a regulated trade system within The Masquerade.

Primadonnas

Primadonnas, although a recognized title within the Celestine Church, carry a distinct connotation. While externally, a Primadonna is acknowledged for their artistic talent, within the Church, the title is given somewhat ironically to those whose personalities overshadow their artistic prowess. Primadonnas, while talented, are often seen as less likeable and lacking the genuine charm of true bards.

The Journey of a Primadonna

Within The Masquerade, the title of Primadonna is not one of disgrace but a stepping stone on the path to self-improvement. It serves as both a mirror and a mentor to those bestowed with it, revealing areas of improvement and guiding them towards becoming better performers.
A Primadonna is often a person who has yet to grasp the full depth of their art. They might possess an impressive level of skill, but they lack the finesse, empathy, or emotional intelligence necessary to captivate an audience truly. They are diamonds in the rough, awaiting the right guidance to reveal their true potential.
Once the title of Primadonna is bestowed, the individual embarks on a journey of growth and self-improvement. They receive guidance from mentors, critiques from peers, and opportunities to learn from their performances. Every failure is a lesson, every success, a step towards shedding their Primadonna title.
However, becoming a Primadonna is not a one-way street. Even accomplished performers can be given the title if they lose their way. Art, after all, is a continuous journey of learning and self-improvement. A five-star performer who lets their success get to their head can become a Primadonna just as easily as a novice who fails to grasp the subtleties of their art.
But the Masquerade and the Church of Celeste are not cruel in their judgments. Their goal isn't to shame or to belittle, but to teach and guide. Being a Primadonna isn't a punishment, but a challenge. A challenge to grow, to improve, to strive for excellence in one's craft.
The Primadonna, in their journey, can earn new titles and stars. Through hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn, they can shed their Primadonna title and ascend to new heights of performance. In this way, the title of Primadonna serves as both a teaching tool and a symbol of potential. It is a testament to The Masquerade's belief in the power of growth, improvement, and the endless potential of its inhabitants.
The Masquerade, the Church of Celeste, the performers, the artisans, the audiences, all are part of this continuous cycle of growth and learning. Every performance, every audition, every star earned or lost, is a part of this beautiful tapestry of art, magic, and the constant pursuit of excellence. This is the essence of The Masquerade, a city where the quest for perfection never ends, where every individual, Primadonna or not, has the potential to shine.

The Scoring System

The Scoring System at The Masquerade, implemented by the Church of Celeste, is a comprehensive and meticulous process, aiming to gauge and grade the skill, creativity, and potential of each performer or tradesman who auditions at The Citadel. It is designed to be unbiased, transparent, and accurate, rewarding the meritorious and encouraging those who have room for improvement.
The process begins with a detailed performance or demonstration by the participant, showcasing their talent and skillset. Once the performance is complete, it is evaluated by a panel of experts from the Church and the Masquerade Company, each a master in their respective fields. These judges examine the performance on several criteria - technique, creativity, audience engagement, execution, and originality, among others.
Each of these aspects is scored separately on a scale of 1-10, and the total is then compiled into an aggregate score. The judges also provide constructive feedback, offering insights on areas of strength and those that need improvement.

The Star Rating System

The Star Rating System serves as an extension of the Scoring System, further refining the judgement and providing a more streamlined way to categorize the skill level of performers and tradesmen. Based on their aggregate score from the Scoring System, participants are awarded a star rating, ranging from one to five.
A one-star rating is typically given to those who are just starting their journey in their chosen field - beginners who have shown promise and potential, but have yet to refine their craft. They may lack experience or finesse but possess the spark needed to ignite their journey towards mastery.
Two and three-star ratings are given to those who have shown significant improvements and advancements in their craft. They display solid skills and a good understanding of their trade, with three-star individuals often considered proficient in their field.
Four-star ratings are reserved for those who show exceptional talent and expertise. These individuals stand out as masters of their trade, impressing judges with their command of technique, creativity, and execution.
A five-star rating is a rare honor, bestowed upon those who have achieved the pinnacle of their craft. These individuals are not just masters, but visionaries, their work transcending the norm and setting new standards in their respective fields.
The Star Rating System not only reflects the skill level of an individual but also guides their journey in their chosen craft. As they evolve and improve their skills, individuals can re-audition to gain higher star ratings, signifying their growth and mastery over time. This encourages continuous learning and self-improvement, embodying the core philosophy of The Masquerade.

The Judges

Every major audition category at the Masquerade is presided over by a panel of four judges, each a master in their field.

A Line of Bards Waiting for their Auditon

Auditions

Once a complex and lengthy process, auditions at the Masquerade have become streamlined and efficient over time. Now, the process runs like a well-oiled machine, ensuring that hopefuls can present their talents and receive a decision swiftly. However, each citizen of Konran is only granted one audition per year, ensuring the opportunity remains a coveted one.

Districst

The Artisan's District

The Artisan's District, initially established by Seraphina herself, is the beating heart of Celeste's creative force in the Masquerade. The district was among the first to rise on Amanita's shell, its growth spurred by artisans eager to pay homage to their goddess through their craft. Here, the stone of the swamp snail's shell was first hewn into sculptures, marking the birth of the Stone Enclave. As the city took to the skies, the district expanded, incorporating elements of air and flight into its artistic tapestry.
Today, a wide range of artists call the Artisan's District home - sculptors, painters, jewelers, weavers, and scribes - each contributing their unique skills and interpretations to the celestial splendor of the city. The district provides the Masquerade with a constant flow of art, embodying Celeste's love for creativity. From the imposing sculptures in the Sculptor's Hall to the vibrant murals on the Painter's Tower, the Artisan's District remains a testament to the artistic vision and passion of its residents.
Artisan District Known for its artisan workshops and studios, the district is a colorful array of buildings made from white marble, with crystal and neon accents adding a fantastical, cyberpunk touch.

• The Sculptor's Hall: An airy marble building filled with numerous sculptures, each poised to spring to life as members of the Stone Enclave if needed.
• The Painter's Tower: A spiral tower adorned with vibrant murals that change daily, displaying the work of the city's painters.
• The Forge of Echoes: A building housing metalworkers and jewelers, its façade seems to sing with the sound of hammers striking metal, a testament to the constant creation within.
• The Loom of Dreams: A wide, domed building where weavers and tailors work, creating fantastical outfits for the city's performers.
• The Ink Well: A sprawling complex of scribes and calligraphers, with large glass windows showcasing the artistry inside.

The Academia

The Academia is the intellectual heart of the Masquerade, housing the city's scholars, researchers, and truth-seekers. Initially, it was just a collection of small study rooms within Seraphina's quarters. However, as the Masquerade's population grew, so did the need for a dedicated learning center. Led by Pallas, a scholar and one of Seraphina's closest advisors, the Academia took shape, a grand testament to Celeste's thirst for knowledge and wisdom.
The Academia houses thinkers and learners from various backgrounds and professions. Astrologers, alchemists, historians, philosophers, all reside in harmony, each adding to the collective wisdom of the district. The Academia provides the Masquerade with knowledge and insight, acting as the city's guiding light in times of uncertainty. It is here, amidst the vast Archive of Ages and the celestial wonder of the Observatory, that the city's future is constantly being shaped and reshaped.
The Academia Home to the city's intellectual pursuits, the Academia is a collection of grand, stately buildings adorned with symbols of knowledge and wisdom.

• The Archive of Ages: A massive library holding centuries of knowledge, its tall marble pillars are etched with glowing runes.
• The Observatory: A towering structure with a domed glass ceiling for stargazing and astrological studies.
• The Atheneum: A sprawling campus for the study of various arts and sciences, with beautiful gardens for relaxation and inspiration.
• The Debate Coliseum: A large open-air amphitheater for spirited debates and exchanges of ideas.
• The Alchemists' Lab: A fascinating structure of glass and steel where potion-makers and alchemists experiment and concoct.

The Hearth District

The Hearth District, founded by Vesta, a goddess known for her nurturing nature, is the homey heart of the Masquerade. It began as a simple market square around the Hearthfire Inn, but as the city grew, so did the district, expanding to accommodate homes, eateries, and shops. The Hearth District was designed to be a welcoming space, offering comfort and respite to the city's residents and visitors alike.
The Hearth District houses a diverse community, from innkeepers, bakers, and chefs, to traders, artisans, and performers. Everyone here plays a vital role in keeping the city's heart warm and beating. The Hearth District provides the Masquerade with sustenance and community, ensuring that the city remains a welcoming haven for all who seek it.
This district is the heart of the city, bustling with homes, marketplaces, and eateries.

• The Grand Bazaar: An expansive marketplace filled with stalls selling a variety of goods, its atmosphere is lively with bargaining and laughter. The Hearthfire Inn: An inviting establishment serving food and drinks, its warm glow is a beacon of hospitality. The Spice Route: A street lined with shops selling exotic spices and ingredients from across Konran. The Mariner's Loft: A seafood restaurant offering the freshest catch, it's structured like a ship with a fabulous view of the city. The Crystal Gardens: An urban park with beautifully manicured gardens and crystal sculptures, it's a favorite spot for picnics and leisure.

The Leisure District

The Leisure District, established by Melpomene, the muse of Celeste's court, is the vibrant heart of the Masquerade. It started as a single theater, but as the city's creative energies blossomed, so did the district. It grew into a dazzling array of venues and establishments dedicated to the arts of performance, entertainment, and leisure.
The Leisure District houses performers and entertainers of every kind – actors, dancers, musicians, storytellers. It's also a magnet for tourists and city folk looking to unwind, enriching the city with laughter, music, and the sheer joy of being alive. The Leisure District provides the Masquerade with entertainment and joy, ensuring the city never loses its vibrancy and charm.

District of Entertainment

The district dedicated to relaxation and entertainment, it teems with venues for music, theatre, dance, and other performances.

Key Venues in the District

• The Grand Amphitheater: The city's main performance venue, a massive marble structure capable of seating thousands.
• The Muse: A popular nightclub pulsing with music and vibrant light shows.
• The Wandering Minstrel: A cozy establishment for folk music and storytelling.
• The Crystal Ballroom: A stunning venue for dances and balls, with a ceiling resembling a starlit sky.
• The Silver Screen: An open-air cinema where residents can watch performances from the past and present.

Notable Leaders

Seraphina - As the founder of the Masquerade and Celeste's demigod daughter, Seraphina is a figure of reverence and respect. She is an accomplished artist and scholar, her wisdom and creative spirit reflected in the city she built. She possesses a unique affinity with creatures of the world, a trait that led her to Amanita and the creation of the Masquerade.
Talos, the Master of Stone - Stern and unyielding as the stone he commands, Talos is the head of the Stone Enclave. His life's dedication to Celeste's service is etched in every marble statue that stands ready to defend the city. His unwavering resolve serves as a pillar of support for the city in times of crisis.
Melpomene, the Muse - Melpomene is a celebrated actress and singer, her performances capturing the hearts of all who witness them. She's known for her creative vision and her relentless pursuit of perfection. As the leader of the Leisure District, she ensures that the city is always alive with music, drama, and dance.
Pallas, the Sage - Pallas is the intellectual guiding force of the city. As head of the Academia, she's renowned for her vast knowledge and the wisdom she imparts to her students. Pallas encourages open debate and critical thinking, cultivating an environment of intellectual growth and innovation.
Vesta, the Hearthkeeper - Vesta is the embodiment of warmth and hospitality. She is a master organizer and a skilled cook, her homely dishes bringing comfort to the city's residents. As the founder and leader of the Hearth District, she ensures that the Masquerade remains a welcoming and nurturing space for all its residents and visitors.

Demographics

The Masquerade is home to a kaleidoscope of diversity, housing an estimated population of around 10,000 individuals. This figure consists of a vibrant mix of artists, performers, magicians, artisans, and support staff, each playing their unique roles in keeping the city alive with magic, performance, and creativity.
The city is a cultural melting pot, with inhabitants hailing from every corner of Celeste and beyond. As such, its demographic make-up is as diverse as it is vibrant. There are humans, both native and foreign, mingling with a colorful array of otherworldly beings – from elegant elves to hardy dwarves, from the enigmatic fey to the elusive shadow-kind, and a wide spectrum of hybrid species. These diverse cultures, beliefs, and traditions interweave to create a vibrant tapestry that breathes life into The Masquerade, making it a truly unique entity in Celeste.
The Masquerade offers an opportunity to anyone with talent or an aspiration to entertain. As such, the demographic profile is further varied by age, social background, and profession. You might encounter a seasoned magician, a young acrobat from an impoverished background, a noble turned actor, or an artisan who left their homeland to create fantastic props. The Masquerade accepts all, regardless of origin, as long as they have something to contribute to the world of performance.

Government

The Masquerade Company, led by the High Diva or an equivalent leading figure, governs The Masquerade. This government structure is a meritocracy, meaning that ability, talent, and contribution to The Masquerade determine one's position within the company. The role of the High Diva is not hereditary; instead, a new Diva is elected based on merit, usually someone who has achieved renown in their field of performance or has made substantial contributions to The Masquerade.
The Masquerade Company is responsible for making all significant decisions regarding The Masquerade's functioning and future. They are responsible for everything from organizing performances, setting tour schedules, maintaining the city's magical infrastructure, and ensuring the well-being of the residents. To manage such a diverse range of responsibilities, the Company is divided into different departments, each led by a skilled individual who has proved their worth in that area.
The Government of The Masquerade strives to maintain a balance between freedom of expression and orderliness, recognizing that creativity thrives in liberty but also that anarchy could lead to chaos. As such, they have established guidelines and regulations that all residents and guests are expected to respect. However, they do their utmost to interfere as little as possible with the artistic process, focusing more on ensuring safety, fairness, and the well-being of all inhabitants.

Defences

Given its unique nature, The Masquerade has unconventional defensive measures in place. High-level enchantments and wards protect the city, shielding it from physical and magical attacks. These defensive spells are maintained and regularly updated by a dedicated team of magicians.
The ability to move around offers The Masquerade a strategic advantage in defense. The city can move away from threats, making it hard for enemies to launch an attack. Moreover, the city's unpredictable movement patterns make it challenging for potential aggressors to plan and execute an attack.
Besides magical defenses, The Masquerade has a security force comprising trained guards and combat magicians. They are responsible for maintaining peace and order within the city, ensuring that performances and daily life go on undisturbed. In addition to the knowledge that at any moment any of the cities marble statues can come to the defense of the city or the Stone Enclave.

Industry & Trade

The primary industry in The Masquerade is entertainment, with the city being a major hub for performing arts in Celeste. Performances ranging from plays, operas, acrobatics, magic shows, and more take place daily, attracting audiences from far and wide.
However, The Masquerade also has a significant trade sector. The city is renowned for its magical artifacts, costumes, and theatrical props, which are sought after by collectors, performers, and magicians across Celeste. Artisans from the city also produce a variety of other goods, such as magical potions, enchanted instruments, and unique artworks, contributing to the city's vibrant trade.
Due to its mobile nature, The Masquerade also serves as a conduit for trade between different cities and regions. As it travels from place to place, it brings goods and products from various regions, facilitatingtrade and cultural exchange between different parts of Celeste.

Infrastructure

Given the unique magical nature of The Masquerade, its infrastructure is unlike any other city. Most of the city's buildings, roads, and facilities are created using advanced magic, allowing them to be rearranged, extended, or diminished as needed.
The city's heart is the Grand Stage, a performance venue that can be magically adjusted to accommodate any form of performance, from intimate plays to grand operas. The audience's seating area can also be expanded or contracted to match the expected turnout, ensuring that every performance has a full house.
Residential quarters for the artists and staff are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, often incorporating magical elements to enhance comfort or productivity. For instance, a painter might live in a loft where the light can be adjusted to match the desired mood or time of day, while an acrobat may have an apartment with high ceilings and enchanted safety nets.
Workshops for artisans and magicians are equipped with magical tools and materials to aid in their work. The Masquerade also houses numerous other amenities such as dining halls, rehearsal spaces, libraries filled with scripts and magic tomes, and recreational facilities to keep the residents entertained and relaxed.

Districts

The Masquerade is divided into several districts, each serving a unique purpose or catering to a specific demographic. Some of the key districts include:
The Performer's Enclave: This district is home to the artists and performers who bring The Masquerade's stage to life. It is a vibrant and lively area, with sounds of music and laughter echoing through the streets at all hours.
The Artisan's Row: This area is where the artisans work, crafting props, costumes, and other materials needed for performances. The streets are lined with workshops, stores, and studios, each a hub of creativity and ingenuity.
The Magus Quarters: This district is where the city's magicians and spellcasters reside. It's filled with towers and laboratories, filled with arcane texts, magical artifacts, and a constant air of mysticism.
The Audience's Retreat: This district is designed for visitors and tourists, providing lodging, dining, and entertainment options to enhance their stay in The Masquerade.

Assets

The Masquerade's most significant asset is undoubtedly its unique magical infrastructure, which allows the city to adapt and change according to needs, ensuring maximum efficiency and comfort for its inhabitants and visitors.
Another major asset is the vast collection of theatrical props and costumes. These are the results of centuries of performances, each piece a work of art that has contributed to the city's rich history. These items, some of which are centuries old, are not only functional but also serve as reminders of the city's past glories.
A variety of magical artifacts are housed within The Masquerade. These range from magical lighting systems used in performances to powerful wards protecting the city, each serving a vital role in the city's functioning.
Finally, the city's population, comprising talented performers, skilled artisans, and accomplished magicians, is a significant asset. Their talent, creativity, and passion are the driving force behind The Masquerade's success and grandeur.

Guilds and Factions

The Masquerade is home to several guilds and factions, each contributing to the city's functioning and culture. The most significant of these is The Masquerade Company, the city's governing body and the primary organizer of all performances and events.
However, other guilds and factions play crucial roles within the city. The Prop Masters, for example, are a guild of artisans specializing in crafting unique props for performances. Their expertise and creativity are integral to the city's theatrical productions.
The Wardrobe Wonders are a guild of costume designers and tailors who create the stunning costumes worn by performers. They are known for their ability to bring characters to life through their costumes.
The Spotlight Conjurers are a group of magicians specializing in lighting and special effects for performances. Their ability to create mesmerizing lighting effects adds an extra layer of magic to the city's performances.
While each guild or faction has its area of expertise, they all work together to ensure that The Masquerade remains a hub of enchanting performances and mesmerizing magic.

History

The Masquerade has a rich and illustrious history dating back hundreds of years. Founded in the year 763 on the Alabaster Calendar by a group of visionaries led by Vesper LeGrande, it has grown from a small performing troupe to a full-fledged floating city.
The Masquerade has seen countless performances, witnessed the rise and fall of stars, and been home to numerous advancements in magic and the performing arts. Each era in its history has left a mark, contributing to the city's unique culture and identity.
Over the years, The Masquerade has also been through its share of trials and tribulations. There have been periods of economic hardship, internal strife, and even threats from outside forces. However, it has always emerged stronger from these challenges, thanks to the resilience and determination of its inhabitants.

Points of interest

There are several notable locations within The Masquerade that are worth visiting. The Grand Stage, for example, is the city's primary performance venue and a marvel of magical architecture. It can be transformed to suit any performance, making it a unique sight to behold.
Vesper's Memorial is a monument dedicated to Vesper LeGrande, the city's founder. It serves as a reminder of the city's origins and the vision that led to its creation.
The Starlight Balcony is a popular spot among residents and visitors alike. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and is a particularly popular spot during the city's night-time performances when the city is lit up with magical lights.
The Magic Cauldron is an enchanting district filled with magical shops and laboratories. It's a must-visit for any magic enthusiast or anyone looking to purchase magical goods.

Tourism

As a mobile city that moves from place to place, The Masquerade attracts a considerable number of tourists. Visitors flock to the city to experience its enchanting performances, explore its magical shops, and witness the spectacle of a floating city.
The city also hosts auditions at every stop, attracting aspiring performers from across Celeste who hope to join its ranks. These auditions are open to the public, making them a popular attraction for visitors.
To cater to its visitors, the city has a range of amenities, including lodgings, dining establishments, and recreational facilities. These amenities, coupled with the city's unique attractions, make it a popular destination for tourists from across Celeste.

Architecture

The architecture of The Masquerade is a unique blend of various styles, reflecting the city's history and diverse cultural influences. The most prominent style is Grandeur Gothic, characterized by intricate designs, soaring spires, and impressive sculptures. This style is blended with magical elements, resulting in structures that are both beautiful and functional.
Despite the prevalence of Grandeur Gothic, the city's architecture is not homogeneous. Different districts have their distinct architectural styles, reflecting the nature of their inhabitants. For example, the Artisan's Row is characterized by practical workshops and studios, while the Magus Quarters features lofty towers filled with magical artifacts.

Geography

The Masquerade's geographical location is unique due to its mobile nature. Originally established in the swampy regions of the Leste Providence, it is now a floating city that moves around the realm of Celeste.
Despite being airborne, the city retains some features of its original location. There are areas within the city designed to mimic the swampy terrain, complete with water bodies and greenery. However, these areas are kept for their aesthetic value and do not affect the city's functionality.

Climate

The climate within The Masquerade varies based on its location. However, internal enchantments maintain a comfortable atmosphere, ensuring that the city's inhabitants and visitors are not adversely affected by extreme weather conditions. These enchantments can regulate temperature, humidity, and even sunlight, ensuring that the city's internal climate is always conducive to performances and daily life.

Natural Resources

Unlike conventional cities, The Masquerade does not have typical natural resources due to its airborne nature. Instead, it draws upon ambient magical energies to power its magical infrastructure.
The city also relies on materials supplied by visiting locations. As it moves from place to place, it trades performances for necessary supplies, including food, water, raw materials for the artisans, and magical components for the magicians. Despite not having its natural resources, The Masquerade is self-sufficient due to its unique ability to trade and adapt.

The Masquerade At the heart of Celestine cities is the Masquerade, a city in itself, functioning as both a colossal audition stage and an academy. Those who pass the auditions enter the Masquerade to study and refine their craft, ascending from apprenticeship to mastership.

The great entry The Courtyard of the Celestial Cathedral

General Information

Status: Active
Type: Mobile Performance Centre and Residential City
Architectural Style: Grandeur Gothic and Cyberpunk
Location: Varies (Mobile), originally based in the Leste Province, Konran
Country: Celeste
Current Tenants: The Masquerade Company, The Prop Masters, The Wardrobe Wonders, The Spotlight Conjurers, and others
Established: 1207, under the Celestial Calendar
Last Renovation: 2223, under the Celestial Calendar (Year it became airborne)
Ruler / Owner: The High Diva
Height: Approximately 150 meters (492 ft) from the lowest to the highest point (The Citadel)

Dimensions

Other Dimensions:
Length: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles)
Width: Approximately 8 km (4.97 miles)
Area: Approximately 40 sq.km (15.44 sq.miles)
Volume: Approximately 9 million cubic meters (318 million cubic ft)

Design and Construction

Architect(s): The original architects are unknown. The current design is a collaboration of artists and mages across centuries.
Main Contractor: The original construction was carried out by the then-inhabitants of the Leste Providence. Renovations and the flight adaptation were done by the skilled artisans and mages of The Masquerade.
Defence Systems: High-level magical enchantments, wards, and the ability to reposition due to its airborne nature.
Travel Mechanism: Advanced anti-gravity technology combined with potent magic known as "Celestial Navigation".

Other Information

Population: Approximately 300,000 permanent residents
Demographics: Performers (40%), Tradespeople (30%), Academics (15%), Ruling council members and staff (5%), Visitors and temporary residents (10%)
Seating Capacity:
The Citadel Auditorium: 25,000
The Grand Stage: 5,000
Various smaller venues combined: 20,000
Total: Approximately 50,000

History and Origin

The Masquerade's origins trace back to an ancient civilization dedicated to the goddess Celeste. The city was conceived as a place where performers could come together and showcase their talents, seeking Celeste's favor. Over centuries, the city has evolved, integrating technology with tradition, yet retaining its core principles of artistry and performance.

Travel Mechanism

The Masquerade moves using a combination of advanced anti-gravity technology and potent magic. This technology, known as "Celestial Navigation," is a well-guarded secret, allowing the city to float in the air and move from one location to another seamlessly.

The Citadel

The Citadel is the central audition hall, a grand structure where performers from around the world come to display their talents. It functions as the city's cultural and intellectual core, serving as the epicenter of all activity in The Masquerade.

Star System and Primadonnas

The Masquerade uses a star-based grading system, wherein performers, tradespeople, and establishments are given a rating from one to five stars. The term 'Primadonna' is given to a five-star performer who lets fame cloud their humility and stops growing in their craft. However, a Primadonna can earn back their stars through improved performance and humility.

The Ruling Council

The Ruling Council governs The Masquerade. This group of esteemed individuals is responsible for the smooth functioning of the city and maintaining the sanctity of its traditions. They are also the ultimate authority on awarding stars and Primadonna titles.

Unique Fauna and Flora

Despite being a city focused on performance and artistry, The Masquerade is home to a unique range of flora and fauna. Some of these species are enchanted and have evolved to survive in the city's unique environment, adding to its magical charm.

Cuisine and Culinary Delights

The Masquerade offers a unique gastronomic experience, with establishments serving delicacies from across the globe. The city's food culture is a performance in itself, with chefs often incorporating artistic elements into their cuisine.

Famous Performances

Over the centuries, The Masquerade has been the stage for countless memorable performances. These range from Eris, the first Primadonna, learning humility, to the spectacular illusions of Andros, the Illusionist, which made the Citadel walls come alive.

Founding Date

763 BF

Alternative Name(s)

The Wandering Miracle, Konran's Mobile Stage, The Aerial Performance Capital.

Type

Megalopolis

Population

The population varies, but an estimate would put it around 10,000, which includes performers, crew, support staff, and a varying number of visitors and auditioning talents.

Inhabitant Demonym

Masqueraders

A Day in the life of

Audition Day - Sirus, the Fire Manipulator

They call me Sirus, master of fire, yet I found myself nervous as a novice. It was my audition day at the Citadel. I had practiced my fire manipulation for years, but this was a stage like no other. The grandeur of the Citadel was breathtaking, and I was to perform my craft in front of judges known for their impeccable taste and high standards.
Performing in front of the panel, the sweat from the nerves and the heat of my flames mingled. As I danced with the fire, shaping it into fantastical beasts and intricate patterns, I hoped it would be enough. The panel looked on, their faces expressionless, and I couldn't help but fear the worst. It was only when I finished that I saw a spark in their eyes. That spark gave me hope.

Another Day - Elara, the Master Seamstress

Being a master seamstress at The Masquerade is not just about stitching costumes. I, Elara, spend countless hours crafting magical costumes that can withstand the rigors of performance and still look extraordinary. The enchantments I weave into every seam ensure the costume moves and transforms as the performer does.
One day, I was tasked with creating a set of costumes for a new performance, each needing to morph from a peasant's outfit to a royal ensemble. The challenge was monumental, but so was the satisfaction when the curtain rose, and the costumes performed their magic, earning me an applaud from the audience, the highest honor a tradesperson could ask for.

Sweet Victory - Andros, the Illusionist

As Andros, the Illusionist, the Citadel was my battlefield. The competition was stiff, with performers from all corners of the kingdom vying for the prestigious five-star rating. I had prepared an illusion so grand, it would make the Citadel itself a part of my performance.
The audition was tense, the air thick with anticipation as I started weaving my magic. The judges watched as the Citadel walls came alive, turning transparent to reveal a celestial vista. The stars seemed to dance at my command, weaving and looping around. The performance ended with a shower of meteorites that transformed into a rain of flowers before they hit the ground.
When the illusion faded, the applause was deafening. The smile on the judge's faces was my greatest reward.

Two Cooking Contestants Prepairing for their Audition