Ïsa’leza
Ïsa’leza is not only the capital of Cavana, it is its cradle. Legends claim that Chitas herself carved the first stone that led to the capital’s creation. Nowadays, it boasts the largest number of formicoids living together on the continent, and it is constantly being perfected. Located almost entirely underground, the capital is nonetheless easily accessible to those who know where its multiple entrances are located.
Unlike other cities within Western Varzzen, Ïsa’leza’s architecture is reminiscent of a labyrinth to foreigners. A knowledge of tunnels is required to navigate the city comfortably, which is why most visitors pay for a guided tour when they first arrive. Whether for a visit, or for a newly installed family, tour guides will usually split Ïsa’leza in four different horizons: Organic, Topsoil, Subsoil, and Parent Rock.
Organic
Also called ‘’the surface’’. Located on the Onyx Veil, the Organic horizon is essential to the inhabitants of Ïsa’leza, despite very few living there on a permanent basis. It is the location of most entrances for the capital, the area where formicoids let their various types of aphids graze during the day, and the land cultivated by farmers.
Entrances can be identified by the unusually high amount of tall pointed rocks agglomerated together. These rocks, once close enough to inspect, have carvings that indicate which horizon of Ïsa’leza will be reached upon completing the descent. Another indicator of being near an entrance is the presence of sentries, formicoids who have the task of filtering who enters and leaves the capital.
The Organic horizon also acts as ceremonial grounds for the formicoids. With both feet planted on the surface of the Onyx Veil, all stand as equals to either receive news, or to share a rare night of merriment under the stars.
Topsoil
The soft earth that makes up the Topsoil horizon has been molded to perfection and filled with both residential and commercial districts. It is notable for being the only underground horizon to receive natural sunlight through holes in the ceiling. For this reason, inhabitants of Ïsa’leza who are not formicoids prefer to establish their houses there.
The commercial districts located within Topsoil are meant for trade with other nations. Businesses will have work hours, and will usually be closed after nightfall to respect the lifestyle of foreigners who have come to trade and temporarily live in the capital.
As for the residential districts, there is a high percentage of houses that belong to soldiers since Topsoil has no military base. It is another unique facet of the first underground horizon. Soldiers are mixed with civilians to create a harmonious environment that promotes a feeling of safety while making economic trades.
Subsoil
A horizon that is hardened with metal salts and mineral deposits. Starting from this horizon, the main light source shifts from the sun to glowing mushrooms which are farmed underground.
The layout of Subsoil is far more complex than Topsoil. This horizon contains trades that are exclusive to formicoids, a military base, Chitas’ Workshop, the barns where the various types of aphids are kept during the night, and the farms where the bioluminescent mushrooms are grown. It is the busiest horizon of Ïsa’leza, with formicoids coming and going at all hours of the day.
Subsoil’s air is more stifling than Topsoil, despite the horizon boasting an impressive ventilation system. For insectoids with a particularly sharp eyesight, the reason for the stifling air is clearly visible. It is a fine cloud of dust in suspension from the work that is done to continue expanding the capital city. Formicoids are aware of this cloud that permeates the air, seeing it as the proof of their hardworking nature.
Parent Rock
The final and deepest layer of Ïsa’leza. Parent Rock is where Tunnulus, the living quarters of the High Assembly, is located. It is also home to the main nursery and to a second, elite, military base.
Visitors can rarely reach Parent Rock unless they have to attend a meeting with the High Assembly. Most comings and goings are supervised by soldiers, and it is not uncommon to see formicoids have to squeeze by one another if many attempt to take a tunnel at the same time.
The narrower structure of Parent Rock is not due to its old age, when there were less formicoids in existence. Rather, it is a conscious decision to ensure the protection of the important formicoids living within the depth of Ïsa’leza.
The Untouchable Fortress, The Underground Capital Type
Capital Parent Location
The Onyx Veil, Cavana Included Locations
Chitas’ Workshop, Tunnulus Owner/Owning Faction
Cavana Founding Date
Early Age of Order Destruction Date (if any)
N/A Size
Capital City Population Size
200,000 (90% formicoid, 3% vespoid, 2% necrites, 5% others) Notable Assets
N/A
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