Agrivestum

Agrivestum is a vast expanse of fertile farmland located northwest of Tatharia Capitolina, the heart of the Tatharian Empire. Governed directly by the city rather than the provincial administration of Hesperica, Agrivestum represents a unique political and economic entity within the Empire. Known colloquially as "Tatharia's Breadbasket," this territory plays a critical role in sustaining the capital's burgeoning population and fueling its ever-expanding ambitions.

Demographics

Agrivestum’s population is approximately 50% Human and 50% Halfling, reflecting a harmonious coexistence between these two groups. Halflings tend to reside in the villages, where their close-knit communities thrive amidst shared traditions and values. Though more common in the villages, halflings also own several notable farms, often specializing in high-quality produce and artisanal goods. Humans, by contrast, are more evenly distributed across the territory, managing larger estates and working as laborers, merchants, and craftsmen. This blend of demographics has fostered a unique cultural exchange, enriching Agrivestum’s identity as a vital part of the Tatharian Empire.

Government

Unlike the surrounding territories governed by Hesperica Province, Agrivestum falls under the jurisdiction of Tatharia Capitolina’s municipal authorities. This direct oversight ensures that the region's output remains aligned with the capital's needs. A specially appointed steward, known as the Praefectus Agrivesti, oversees day-to-day operations, including tax collection, infrastructure maintenance, and dispute resolution.

Industry & Trade

For Tatharians, Agrivestum embodies the Empire's ideals of harmony between urban sophistication and rural productivity. The region’s festivals, tied to planting and harvest cycles, draw visitors from the city, fostering a sense of shared identity and interdependence. Farmers from Agrivestum are celebrated during these events, often parading into the capital with their finest produce as offerings to Alessandra, the Sun Goddess.
Agrivestum is integral to the capital's food supply, producing a significant portion of its grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. Beyond sustenance, the region’s surplus goods are often exported to other parts of the Empire, generating revenue for the city. This economic importance has earned Agrivestum its affectionate nickname, "Tatharia's Breadbasket."

Infrastructure

With the continued growth of Tatharia Capitolina, Agrivestum’s importance is expected to rise. While the Aetherite Conduit System (ACS) has not yet been introduced to this rural expanse, the city’s government has begun laying the groundwork for future advancements. Current infrastructure in Agrivestum focuses on traditional and well-maintained methods, including an extensive network of irrigation canals, stone-lined roads, and granaries strategically placed near the river for ease of transport. These systems, while effective, are gradually reaching their limits under the pressure of increased demand from the capital.
Discussions among city officials and the Praefectus Agrivesti center on upgrading existing infrastructure to accommodate both population growth and technological progress. Proposed projects include expanded irrigation systems to combat seasonal droughts, reinforced roadways for heavier cargo traffic, and storage facilities enchanted with basic preservation spells. Though the full implementation of the ACS remains a distant prospect, these preliminary steps reflect the Empire’s commitment to ensuring Agrivestum remains a cornerstone of its prosperity, capable of supporting the ambitious expansion of Tatharia Capitolina.

Points of interest

• Glenhollow

  A small but vibrant village located near the central crossroads of Agrivestum. Despite its modest size, Glenhollow offers a surprising array of amenities, including an inn, a marketplace, and a small shrine dedicated to Rione. Known for its lively festivals and hospitable residents, Glenhollow serves as a gathering place for travelers and locals alike.



• Ilarian's Fall

  A mysterious series of caverns nestled within a dense forested area on the region's northern edge. Known for their treacherous terrain and unexplored depths, Illarian's Fall is steeped in local legend. One of the most enduring tales tells of a poor shepherd boy named Kethos Ilarian, who vanished after wandering into the caves to escape a storm. Locals say that on quiet nights, faint whispers and the forlorn sound of a flute—which Kethos was said to carry—can be heard echoing from within. Strange sounds, dangerous creatures, and ghostly apparitions have kept most would-be explorers at bay, leaving the caverns' secrets tantalizingly hidden. The name Ilarian's Lament is often used to describe the haunting aura that surrounds these enigmatic caves.



• The Three Sisters

  A towering hill that dominates the surrounding landscape, the Three Sisters is crowned by three impossibly tall pines, each rising high above the treetops below. Visible from miles in any direction, this natural landmark has become a symbol of Agrivestum's enduring connection to the land. Local legend tells of three sisters who planted the pines generations ago, vowing to protect the region with their spirits. Farmers often leave small offerings at the base of the trees, believing the sisters' spirits bless their crops and guard against misfortune. The hill is a popular gathering spot during festivals, with its panoramic views offering a moment of serenity amidst the bustling agricultural life.

Geography

Stretching along both banks of the Tath River, Agrivestum comprises a network of verdant fields, orchards, and pastures, interspersed with small villages and hamlets. The region is connected by a series of well-maintained roads and irrigation systems, all managed by the city’s administration. The Tath River serves as the lifeblood of the territory, providing essential water for agriculture and a means of transporting goods directly to Tatharia Capitolina.
Agrivestum’s terrain features varied elevations and rocky outcrops, remnants of the region’s tumultuous geological past. Rolling hills blend into flatter farmland, while the occasional jagged ridge breaks the otherwise pastoral landscape. These rocky areas, though less suitable for farming, often harbor unique ecosystems and serve as natural boundaries between fields and villages. In some places, ancient stone walls and terraces hint at the ingenuity of past inhabitants who sought to tame the land.
Over the centuries, the region has faced both natural upheavals and the scars of past conflicts. Erosion and floods from the Tath River have reshaped parts of the landscape, while abandoned watchtowers and crumbled fortifications tell of skirmishes that once threatened this vital territory. Today, these features stand as silent witnesses to Agrivestum’s resilience and the enduring bond between its people and the land.

Table of Contents

Type

District

Location under

Tatharia Capitolina

Ruling/Owning Rank

Praefectus Agrivesti

Owning Organization

Tatharian Empire