Kythyss
Kythyss, once a thriving coastal city and hub of maritime trade, now lies desolate, a shadow of its former self. It was the first city to fall during the war, succumbing swiftly to the forces of darkness. For months, the city became a bastion of enemy control, its streets transformed into a stronghold of corruption. When Kythyss was finally liberated, it was left in ruins, a haunting reminder of the war’s devastating cost.
The city’s fate was further cemented in history as the site of the climactic battle against Elriza, the campaign’s final, desperate stand. The grand pantheistic temple, once a symbol of unity and faith, was severely damaged during the fighting, its spire collapsing after being struck by an airship in the chaos. This temple, along with the remnants of the city’s harbor and markets, now stands as a testament to Kythyss’s former glory and the trials it endured.
Despite its desolation, the Crown has declared Kythyss a priority for reconstruction, citing its strategic importance and symbolic value. Salvage efforts and reconstruction plans have kept caravans flowing along the High King’s Road, breathing new life into the region and offering hope that the city will one day rise again.
Geography
Situated along the coast, Kythyss once boasted natural harbors that facilitated bustling trade routes. The remnants of its docks and piers, now rotting and shattered, serve as grim reminders of its prosperous past. The surrounding area, once rich with fertile farmland, is marked by scars of the war, blighted fields and burnt remnants of what were once vibrant villages. Despite the desolation, the High King’s Road serves as a lifeline to the city, connecting it to the inland settlements. Caravans laden with supplies and workers travel this route regularly, ensuring that Kythyss remains a focal point of reconstruction efforts.History
Kythyss was a jewel of the southern coast, renowned for its shipyards, vibrant markets, and the diverse cultures it welcomed through trade. Its strategic location made it a vital asset to the kingdom, but also an early target during the war. When the darkness came, Kythyss fell swiftly. Its defenders fought valiantly but were overwhelmed by the sheer ferocity and numbers of the enemy forces. The city’s fall marked a turning point in the war, sending shockwaves throughout the kingdom. For months, Kythyss became a stronghold for the forces of darkness, its people either slain, enslaved, or forced to flee.Current State
Kythyss is now a place of ruin and echoes, its once-bustling streets eerily silent save for the activity of salvage crews and hopeful workers. Crumbling buildings and the remnants of burned ships dot the cityscape, while parts of the harbor remain submerged or unusable. Despite this, the Crown has declared its intent to reclaim Kythyss, announcing a reconstruction effort to restore its strategic and economic value. Salvage teams scour the ruins for materials, relics, and any sign of surviving infrastructure, while caravans flowing up and down the High King’s Road ensure a steady supply of labor and resources.
Legends and Rumors
The Ghost of Major Rem: Workers in the ruins claim to see a spectral figure near the site of Rem’s Stand, said to protect those who strive to rebuild. Elriza’s Mark: Some believe Elriza left a curse upon the city that has yet to be fully lifted, citing the eerie whispers heard in the ruins at night. The Hidden Vault: Whispers persist of a hidden vault beneath the Grand Pantheistic Temple, containing artifacts of immense power and faith.Did You Know?
The fall of Kythyss inspired a dozen ballads, though most survivors of the city refuse to sing them, considering the songs a reminder of tragedy rather than triumph. Major Rem’s final words, “Hold the line, for all of us,” have become a rallying cry for soldiers and reconstruction workers alike. Salvagers in Kythyss often speak of strange whispers in the ruins, believed to be echoes of the city’s darkest days. _______________________
RUINED SETTLEMENT
10th of Marpenoth, 1491
“There’s a sadness in those stones, but there’s also hope. We’ll build again.”