Rostova

Overview: Rostova, known traditionally as Rustov to many of its inhabitants, is a free city that strategically chose to "partner" with the Kingdom rather than face conquest. Nestled beside the Reach, a deep, expansive lake with a northern strait leading to the ocean, Rostova remains isolated for much of the year due to the severe winter freeze. Paradoxically, it is also the only portion of the Kingdom with semi-regular contact with the Southern continent, during the summer thaw. This geographic and climatic isolation combined with the influence of outside culture has shaped the city’s unique blend of fierce independence and pragmatic cooperation with the Crown. Today, Rostova stands as the most populated Chernayan holding north of the capital, Sevgorod.   History and Significance: Rostova’s decision to join the Kingdom was driven by a blend of survival instinct and a desire for prosperity. The city’s leaders recognized the benefits of aligning with the powerful Crown, yet they ensured that Rostova retained a degree of autonomy and cultural identity. This balance of independence and alliance is encapsulated in the city's ethos, where the spirit of the 'Free City' is still palpable despite its official integration into Chernaya.   Geography and Layout: Rostova is divided into two primary areas: the lower city and the outer city. The older lower city is a maze of canals, characterized by stately and refined architecture. These waterways are the city's main arteries, bustling with life during the warmer months as boats and barges transport goods and people. In winter, when the canals freeze, they transform into icy roads, with residents using snow-shoes and sleds to navigate.   The outer city rises from the lower parts, climbing up the hillside along the eastern side of the Reach. This newer section of Rostova features fortified, pragmatic stone structures designed to endure the harsh northern winters. These buildings are centered around large “hearth rooms,” communal spaces that provide warmth and a sense of community during the colder months. North of the lower city lies the Finger of Sendiir, an icy peninsula that houses an enclave of southern "exiles." These exiles have become quite wealthy in the time since their arrival, maintaing trade between the guilds and the Imari, and have grown fairly influential, although this always must be tempered with caution because of a general fear of outside influence amongst Chernayans.   Cultural Identity: Rostova's choice to align with the Kingdom was shaped by a mix of pragmatism and the pursuit of prosperity. Despite this alliance, the spirit of the ‘Free City’ remains strong, with citizens taking pride in their heritage. Rostovans value knowledge, but unlike the Imari, who seek it with a singular purity, they balance intellectual pursuits with a practical, almost fatalistic understanding of the world. This pragmatism is a reflection of the harsh realities of their environment and history.   This blend of pride and practicality is captured in the city’s traditions, such as the message on the tomb of Aryn Chernaya. The tomb was relocated to Rostova from the capital by Belgarion’s predecessor, standing amidst ivy-wreathed avenues. The plaque, placed by the Regiment, honors the union between Rostova and Chernaya as "the Free City’s finest vintage," symbolizing the city’s enduring connection to its past and its complex relationship with the Kingdom.   Guilds, the Watch, and Merchant Houses: Rostova’s society is deeply influenced by its Guilds, the Watch, and Merchant Houses, each playing a crucial role in maintaining the city’s autonomy and prosperity.   Guilds: The Guilds are powerful institutions in Rostova, representing various trades and crafts. They are central to the city’s economic life, ensuring that artisans and merchants thrive. The Guilds wield considerable influence, often working closely with the Merchant Houses to control the flow of goods and services. These include the Guild of Alchemists, the only sanctioned practice of magic in the North, however, in general Rostovan crafts are highly regarded throughout Chernaya, known for their quality and craftsmanship.   The Watch: The Watch serves as both a peacekeeping force and a symbol of the Crown’s authority in Rostova. However, their power is balanced by the strong local governance. The Watch Academy in Rostova is one of the most respected in Chernaya, producing some of the kingdom’s finest officers. While the Watch is a visible presence in the city, they are careful not to overstep, especially when dealing with the influential Guilds and Merchant Houses.   Merchant Houses: The Merchant Houses are the true power brokers of Rostova, with many tracing their lineage back to the city’s founding. These families have amassed considerable wealth through trade and alliances, maintaining a delicate balance between loyalty to the Crown and their own interests. Their influence extends beyond Rostova, playing a significant role in the city’s continued prosperity and its complex relationship with the Kingdom.