Valens, the City of Knowledge

The Land of Discovery and Innovation

Founding and Historical Context

In the aftermath of a world shattered by unknown calamities, Valens emerged as a beacon of safety and enlightenment. Founded by Castor Valensra, his cousin Kaysta Valensra, and their friend-turned-betrayer Pasma Tash, Valens was the first city to rise from the ashes of the chaos. People from across the land were drawn to Castor, renowned for his ability to defeat the Ancients plaguing the world, making his city a sanctuary in a perilous world.

Architectural Marvels and Early Growth

Valens began as a modest settlement, quickly growing into a city structured around the imposing Citadel. The architecture of Valens was a blend of simplicity and grandeur, with stone and wood houses giving way to majestic statues and fountains, each telling stories of victories over the Ancients and celebrating the city's founders.

Cultural Melting Pot

As a convergence point for diverse cultures, Valens evolved into a city unified in its adoration for its figurehead, Castor. Festivals in his name became a cornerstone of the city's cultural identity, especially following his ascension to godhood, with the Children of Castor, his closest followers, becoming prominent religious figures. These festivals, filled with tributes and tithes, exemplified the people's gratitude for their safety and freedom from the plague of Ancients and monsters.

by DALL-E

A painting of Castor, titled "The Master of Magic", was made by Ariana Halven. Reproductions of this portrait spread rapidly through the Valenians, becoming the main portrayal of the Father of Magic. This piece showcased Castor in opulent robes, contributing significantly to his reputation of majesty. Interestingly enough, the depiction of him in such lavish clothing led to Castor being presented with similarly lavish robes, created by talented and dedicated Valenians as thanks, which he wore at Kaysta's insistence.

Technological and Magical Innovations

Valens was not just a city of worship; it was a hub of innovation and a cradle of numerous inventions. Notable achievements included the plow, invented by Dunstan Halven, and revolutionary papermaking and bookbinding techniques, which transformed literature and record-keeping. The city was also home to significant magical discoveries, such as the Godhand and Castor's Cauldron, artifacts of immense power.

The Great Library

Because of the advancements made in record-keeping, the creation of tomes became an art. The books were no longer just sources of knowledge, but also objects of beauty and craftsmanship. This grand collection of knowledge and art was stored at the Great Library of Valens, and scholars traveled from all over to study from and contribute to it.

by DALL-E

Religious Transformation

With Castor's ascension as the God of Magic, the Kastir assumed control of the people's beliefs, establishing a formal religion in his name. Castor was venerated for protection against magical creatures and for mastery in magic and education. Temples and academies dedicated to "his teachings" sprang up, disseminating the doctrines far and wide.
This religious establishment led to the solidification of the Kastir's absolute control of the city, as they were now both political and religious figureheads.

Governmental Shift

During a brief two years, Pasma Tash abdicated his position as Valensra, the head of the Kastir and ruler of Valens, while he journeyed in search of answers. While he was gone, the man who filled the position restructured Valens' government. Instead of being ruled by the Kastir, he introduced a council of respected community members.
After Pasma Tash's return to the city, the interim Valensra was mysteriously found dead, and Tash was returned the title and given a position on the council.

The Fall of Valens and the Entombed

Despite its might and magic, Valens eventually fell to Mordred's spell, The Change, which converted the people into Azher'Tek.
To escape this while the city's magical barriers delayed the inevitable, the Kastir planned a spell to transport as many citizens as possible to the moon. However, because of the possible catastrophic consequences of such an untested spell, the Kastir Inner Circle chose to preserve themselves inside of magical sarcophagi, preventing them from being affected by the spell, and to be released not long after Mordred's magic had run its course. However, because of Pasma Tash's hesitation to undergo the also untested sealing, he was Changed into an Azher'Tek, and the release of the spell was never configured, trapping the Entombed and leaving them to fall into insanity over the centuries of their stasis.

Valens in Memory and Legend

The legacy of Valens lives on in literature, pilgrimages to its empty streets, and the annual festivals held by the descendants of those who escaped. The city's influence is seen in architectural styles and religious practices around the world, as well as the contributions its many inventions made to their fields.

Founders

• Castor Valensra
• Kaysta Valensra
• Pasma Tash

Alternative Name(s)

The City of Knowledge

Type

City

Population

11,023

Inhabitant Demonym

Valenian

Location under

Dalia, Land of the Whispering Pillar

Owner/Ruler

Pasma Tash

Ruling/Owning Rank

Valensra

Owning Organization

The Kastir

Characters in Location

• Castor Valensra

Valens in the Early Days

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