Ellentev

It has been said that Rostonst is the beating heart of the floating island of Arithasia. If this is true, then the capital city of Ellentev is its soul. This place is home to all the most important people on the island, where few foreigners ever see.

Demographics

Almost all citizens of Arithasia are human, and unlike the port city of Rostonst, almost no foreigners ever visit here. As such, practically everyone one might encounter on the streets is human. As such, non-humans are given a great deal of attention, for better or for worse.

Government

As the nation's capital, the government of Arithasia is the government of Ellentev. The city is ruled by the High One, a quasi-religious figure that serves as the unquestioned ruler of the entire island from birth until death. Her whim is law, and this is no more visible than in the city where she resides.
Directly beneath her are the seven Blessed Families that serve a role similar to that of nobility in other lands. The matriarchs of these families are almost treated as queens in their own right, and the women of these families are almost treated as extensions of the High One, herself.
Another important organization here is the army. Most of Arithasia's warriors are stationed within the city, mostly to protect the High One. However, unlike in other places on the island, they also protect the ordinary people by serving as the city's law enforcement.

Defences

Unlike many other cities of similar size, Ellentev is without defensive walls. The thought behind this is that the very center of the island is already quite defensible. If any attackers wished to strike at Ellentev, they would have to conquer one of the ports along the coast, such as Rostonst.
This does not mean the city is defenseless, however. A vast majority of the Arithasian army is stationed here at all times, as are the forces of the Blessed Families. The greatest warriors, mages, and priestesses of Arithasia make their home here and are more than willing to shed blood in the city's defense.

Industry & Trade

Due to the fact that the most influential and important people on the island live in Ellentev, the most skilled craftspeople also live here. That said, the Arithasians are not known for the quality of their craftsmanship. Much of the wealth and quality goods traded from elsewhere are funneled here, however.
In addition to being the center of the floating island physically and politically, the capital is also the center of magical learning. The Academy of Lady Sion is here, and more magical reagents are sold in the city than anywhere else on the island. The city is also home to enchanters who primarily work on commission for the wealthy of Arithasia.

Infrastructure

Ellentev was built in the very center of the isle of Arithasia, with the Grand Palace of the High One built on a mountain overlooking the rest of the city. The rest of the city is built going out in all directions. Four streams are always running out of the palace providing cool, clean water to the entire city before disappearing underground. Just where the water comes from and where it goes is kept secret from the population.
Surrounding the palace are the manors of the seven Blessed Families. These are in a very symbolic defensive location and are gifted to the families by the High One. In that same vicinity are various businesses that cater specifically to the upper class. Also in the area is the renowned Ellentev Arena, where people come from around the island to watch gladiatorial fights and other sports and performances.
There is very little order to the rest of the city. Residential and commercial areas are scattered throughout the lower streets. They tend to still be quite prosperous, however. The poorest citizens of Arithasia are not permitted to live in the nation's capital city.

History

The history of Arithasia, itself is shrouded in mystery, and the capital is no different. The people initially fled to the island due to a terrible war. Most scholars believe this war to be either the Second Imperial War or the Second Rising, but the details are unclear. The first landing was said to have been were the city of Rostonst is today.
From there, they naturally explored the rest of the island. The mountain in the center loomed over the surrounding countryside, drawing explorers in very quickly. Since it seemed the ideal place for a secure settlement, settlers came to make their homes not long after.
The story goes they met something in a deep cavern beneath the city. This being, it is said, deemed the females of the island to be worthy and taught them its ways, so they might never have to flee from war again. Today, few Arithasians even believe this legend, considering it little more than a bedtime story.
Since that time, the city has been very secure. Arithasia as a whole has warned with the sahuagin and the people of Tarador, but they have never been able to attack Ellentev.

Architecture

The architecture of Ellentev is very similar to that found in the rest of the island, being primarily domed structures cooled with vents in the hot southern summers and warmed with fireplaces in the cold northern winters. This style is used even for such important buildings as the Grand Palace and the Academy.
The primary difference between the buildings around the island and those of Ellentev is in the materials. Most Arithasian buildings are made of an unusually strong white stucco. The buildings in Ellentev are built from the mountain stone cut from quarries nearby. This makes these buildings far sturdier than those elsewhere.
Also like the rest of the island, these buildings are heavily decorated, although there is some variation in this, as well. Most buildings on the island are painted in colorful and intricate frescoes, and many of the buildings in Ellentev are no exception. However, the important structures are instead decorated with carvings in the stone walls, primarily celebrating Arithasian might.

Founding Date

2nd Age

Type

City

Population

Approx. 20,000

Inhabitant Demonym

Ellentevi

Owning Organization

Arithasia