Naoned

Ethnic Breakdown

  One of the largest ports in the Northeast, Naoned is a cultural melting pot, drawing in peoples from across Alvez into the large and chaotic city. Located on the mouth of the Liger River, the longest river in Northwest Kornôgel, and the southern coast of the Armorican Peninsula, the city is a natural stop for the North-South trading routes, surpassed in size on the Ar Mor Bras only by Port De La Lune, and with a higher representation of Northern peoples.   Unsurprisingly, the ethnic makeup of the city is dominated by the Lethaned, especially those of Lower Letha, followed by Akitanians, their homeland less than half a days ride Southwards after crossing the Liger. Anjevin, Neustrian and Manchais also have large representation in the area, facilitated by geographic proximity and extensive trading networks.   A major cosmopolitan destination, the city attracts other populations from further afield. Merchant communities from the Cloth Cities and the Golden Sea have established themselves in the trading centers of the city, while sailors and craftsmen arrive daily from the County of Tolosa and the Kingdom of Navarre. Fomorians from the Orkney Isles serve as sailors, fishermen and longshoremen on the busy docks and fisheries.   Others, hailing from places as far off as Arle, Fjallkonan, Pharos and Slaver's Coast are present as individuals or smaller groups, rarely to the level of statistical relevance, but furthering Naoned's reputation as a true "world port". The Pilhaouer are less common in the region than in Upper Letha.  

Species breakdown

 

The Bediz make up the majority of the population, with Boermerzh representation being at a slightly higher than average level for a settlement of its size.

The Korrigan

    Naoned hosts a thriving Korrigan population, residing in and around the city, fully integrated into the civic and commercial life of the city.  

The Teuz , the hooved Korrigan of the Meadows are the most common and actively integrated faerie population. They typically live agrarian lives to the West, North, and East of the city, tending to farms in small towns, villages and hamlets outside the city walls. Some also live on the river islands to the South. Teuz farming communities are equal in number to those of the Bediz within the region, but the intra-muros population of craftsmen, labourers and merchants is less than the Bediz. Teuz typically travel into the city for trade and social interaction, but only a small portion reside within the city walls. Despite their large population, the Teuz are largely of peasant stock and poorly represented among the nobility, although a small, but respectable number are considered part of the bourgeois middle classes. The Teuz hold positions within the guilds, trading councils and other economic bodies.

The Kriores , the goblinoid Korrigan of the Moors, make up the largest intra-muros Korrigan population, working as excavators, labourers and craftsmen. While a large percentage of the Korrigan population in the city, their numbers are dwarfed by those in Gwened, to the West, and Naoned is considered to be a secondary city by their standards. Despite being found working in almost any part of the city, the population resides almost entirely in the Grimward and on the West bank of the Erdre, living in crowded shantytowns within the alleys between the warehouses and in the complex drainage tunnels that they helped construct in the undercity. The Kriores of Naoned are overwhelmingly of the lower classes, but several tiijinouriou, Journeymen and Craftsmen are also found among the population. The tiijinouriou are considered, per the Treaty of Gargantua, to be "Princes Etranger", and are vassals to Ker-Malastred, not the Konts of Naoned. For practical purposes, they are treated as the equivalent to Bediz non-landed gentry. The Gargantuan Kriores are under the command of the Kunduerez of Naoned, who holds a permanent position on the Council of 18.

The Jetins Kriores and the Fées-des-Houles have recently established themselves within the past 200 years, arriving from the Ar Mor Breizh in the North as trade increases around the Peninsula. While some reside in the Mask District or Place du Vin, they reside in larger numbers in the new extra-muros ports growing up to the West along the Liger, a result of disputes with the Gargantuan Kriores. The Jetins have petitioned to join the Council of 18 and other civic organizations, but have been continually blocked by strong Gargantuan opposition.  

The Poulpiquet, the Korrigan of the Dale, have a large community in the area, largely residing to the East and North along the Erdre and Liger Rivers, rather than intra-muros, living near Teuz hamlets or in traveling caravans of Pilhaouer. They works as tinkerers, ragpickers, entertainers and in the service industry. The Poulpiquet have little representation in the guilds and none in the nobility or the Council of 18. When living within the walls, they are most commonly found in the Forest or Grimward.

The Kornikaned , the Korrigan of the Forests did not arrive in Naoned by choice, but instead traveled along with the timber that would make the great halls, ships and windships that fill the city. This has resulted in sudden and dramatic social upheaval, as the famously territorial and insular people are thrown into an unfamiliar environment with other Kornikaned from all over Alvez. While some traditional troupes are found in the southern river islands and the surrounding areas, intra-muros troupes, largely found, fittingly enough, in the Forest, have become loose and chaotic organizations, more akin to street-gangs than traditional noble courts. They lay claim to structures, neighborhoods and parks, waging constant fighting amongst themselves as territory and membership changes dramatically.

The Gargoul , the Korrigan of the Mountains, arriving with the Windships from the Cloth Cities, have made themselves at home in the city, taking up residence in the high stone towers of Steepletown, Feydeau Island and Gloriette Island. A small colony has even petitioned, and gained the recognition of the Universities on Enez Naoned. They work as artificers, alchemists and assist with construction across the city. Colonies regularly pop up and vanish across the all parts of the city, with the most stable troupes centered on the Library of Gohard, the Nemeton of Naoned, the Cathedral on Naoned and the Windspire. Initially viewed as pests and hunted by the Southern Church, the Gargoul lobbied the local Korrigan population extensively and were allowed to become signatories to the Throne of Menez Hom, ending the immediate threat and gaining a foothold in the city.

The Hoseguéannets , the Korrigan of the Cromlechs, are rare intra-muros, found only in the Grimward and Undertown. Larger numbers are found on the Southern Bank of the Liger, among the tanneries, fisheries and slate mines. The Hoseguéannets are active in the City Watch and the Thieves Guilds of the city.

Other Korrigan, such as the Boléguéans and the Margot have smaller numbers in the city and its environs. The former do not have their own community, but rather live among the other Korrigan populations. They are often found at the Green Man Tavern, the centre of Korrigan civic life in the city.

The Sidhe

The Sidhe of the Fortunate Isles have a smaller presence in Naoned compared to the Bediz and the Korrigan, but are nonetheless an important community in the canal city, taking up important positions in the civic and commecial life of the port.  

The Tuatha de Danaan have traded along the Liger River since the days of Gradlon Mwar, making use of the villages that would become Naoned until the reign of Conomor the Cursed, when the city was sacked and burned. Eladan trade ceased entirely after the Battle of Keremma Dunes, when the fleets of the Summer Court were destroyed, but gradually trickled back. After the destruction of Naoned by Hastings Fireforged, Eladan smugglers made use of the abandoned port to support operations along the Liger and along the Silvercoast.

These smugglers proved vital allies to Dug Alan II, and were granted a charter to continue on as legitimate merchants as thanks for their support in his campaign, establishing the Lugoni Trading Guild. Eladan were also granted the right to hold positions in civic offices and even obtain noble title with the County of Naoned. This was later used as the basis for Dugez Konstanza I to recognize Sidhe nobility across all of Letha. Today, the Eladan serve in the upper echelons of Nantais nobility, residing in the wealthy regions of Feydeau Island and Place Alan II, as well as the private holdings in the southern river Islands.  

The Nathair had only a small population in the region prior to 1062 SI, when a genocidal campaign against them in Southern Arle and Tolosa drove them North to the relative safety of Letha. Naoned was the largest and nearest neutral port to the North, and hundreds of Nathair fled here following Konstanza 1's proclamation of her Duchy as a sanctuary. An Akitanian fleet besieged the city, but it offered heavy resistance and remained free until the end of the war. The Nathair continued to head towards Letha, with many ending up in Naoned. Today, most reside near Place du Vin and the Mask district, where their heating and cooling expertise is in high demand.

The Tempestarii began making use of the port as a major stop on their trading routes around 1080 SI, increasing their trips to the region with each passing year. While their is only a small permanent population, largely operating near the Windspire or the Windship docks of Quai de la Fosse, there is a nearly constant cycle of the winged traders through the city.

The Paolig - True to their nature, the Paolig wandered into town one day and simply never left. Various tales describe them arriving with a caravan, a ship or the Fomorian invasion, but none of these have been verified. The Paolig wasted no time integrating themselves across the city, from the criminal enterprises of the Grim Ward to the noble estates of Feydeau Island. The Clowder of La Cigale is located in the Mask District, serving as the closest thing to a cultural center among the independent-minded Paolig.

-------------------------------

Fomorians and Others

 

The Fomorians , under the leadership of Hastings Fireforged, sacked the city in 811 SI and have remained in the region after the campaigns of Alan II. The majority fled to the peat bogs of Blackmire in nearby Barony of Gwenrann, but have trickled back to work as sailors, longshoremen and fishermen in Quai de la Fosse and the South Bank of the Liger. Their numbers are supplemented by new waves of fomorii immigrants from La Manche and the Orkney Isles.

The Marie-Morgane had little interaction with the Southern Ar Mor until 736 SI and the start of the Odet Raids. Starting then, they began to push eastwards, attacking ships from the growing port and its growing slave trade. At several points in its history, Naoned has offered bounties on Marie-Morgane and constructed rivergate defenses to prevent their movement up the Liger.

Despite this antagonistic relationship, many Marie-Morgane were originally from Naoned and their knowledge of the harbor and canal systems became quite extensive, leading to the establishment of two colonies, one loyal to the Daughters of Ys, the other a group of Drifting exiles. The Ys faction operates within the canals, making use of flooded buildings in the Grimward and Undertown, attacking the slave trade, stealing goods and recruiting new members, as well as using the city as a base of operations to move further up the Liger River into Anjev. The Drifting of Pen Be, located near the Barony of Gwenrann, often travels into the city in secret, but lack a permanent presence in the city.

Noble Title

The city and the surrounding area, make up the Biskonti Naoned, the seat of the larger Kontelezh Naoned. As a result, the Konts of Naoned, who typically oversee the city's governance, are also the Biskonts of Naoned, the lesser title being subsumed into the greater one. The Konts may hold other titles that remain intact, such as the current Kontez, Janed "Ar Flamme" Monforz, who is also the Baronez of Gwenrann. Historically, the Konts of Naoned are often also the Dugz of Letha, although other regions have taken this on at different points in time. The majority of the lesser nobility within the Biskonti are unlanded gentry, or hold small territories and limited direct power.  

The Council of 18

While the Kont and the nobility hold ceremonial and military power, much of the city and its immediate administration is handled by the Council of 18, an assembly of 6 merchants, chosen by their respective guilds, 6 nobles, elected by their peers, and 6 officials, often military or religious, approved by the Kont. The Lugoni Trading Company and the Lavigerien Guild are all but assumed to be part of the merchant coalition, given their power within the city, and a Teuz or Boléguéan is also very common. The Kriores Kunduerez of Naoned and an Eladan noble are guaranteed a slot in the noble contingents by treaty. A representative of the Druids and of the Southern Church are typically appointed as part of the Kont's selection.   Elections to the Council take place every 7th Summerrules, or on the coronation of a new Kont. The Kont may also dissolve the Council at their pleasure, or call for special elections in the wake of death, sickness or scandal removing one of the representatives. Officially, each district of the city is to be represented, but this is not always the case and is only rarely strictly enforced.

Physical Defenses

  The city center of Naoned, located on the confluence of the Erzh and the Liger Rivers, is surrounded by fortified stone ramparts, dating from the days of Ker-Ys, which are constantly repaired and upgraded to their current state. The crenelated walls are reinforced by 21 towers, six gates and two rivergates. The Erzh river cuts the fortified city in two, connected by a series of bridges. The rivers surround the walls on 3 sides, with a dry moat on the East side. Each gate includes portcullis and drawbridge, as well as dedicated guardrooms.   The Dug's Castle is located on a fortified island in the Southeast, protected by two fortified gates, one into the city, another into leading into Faubourg de Richebourg, and five fortified towers. The castle is separated from the main city by a river channel moat. The castle is located near the fortified riverport, Quai Mellier.   In the Northwest, the Faubourg de Marchix is located within fortified earthworks dating from the reign of Waroch I. While not normally so, these can be easily reinforced with wooden palisades in times of war.   Several of the bridges leading into the city are fortified and reinforced with drawbridges and gatehouses, including stretches of the Dugsbridge. Small fortifications, such as the island fortress of Prison de Carrier, the Andennspire and the Kriores settlements of the Grimward cliffs supplement the defense of the city from various crucial points in times of extreme need.  

Other defenses

  In addition to its built defenses, Naoned is home to some of the largest defensive fleets in Letha, made up of both maritime and aerial forces. The Dug controls a fleet of ships and the Ducal Windgaurd, which often supplement the forces of the city itself. Ducal forces serve as the elite in both defense and internal security, while quotidian activities are administered by the City Watch. The City Watch is further supplemented by the private security of the Merchant's Guilds and Noble Houses. As a result of this, Naoned, together with Roazhon, are the only two cities in Letha where the city watch has their own Windships. Ostensibly independent, the City Watch technically has the power to commandeer the private forces of the Guilds and Nobility for the defense of the city, but more often, the reverse is true, and the Watch is more commonly used as pawns of the power plays of the city. The cities forces are supplemented by a contingent of Brassguard.   A kriores invention, fortified barges can be deployed along the river as defensive positions or chain stations, granting increased control over the river traffic.

Naoned is located at the confluence of three rivers, the Liger River, the Erzh and the Sevre, as the Liger drains into the Pleg-mor Gwaskogn and the Mor Bras. This has made it the linchpin of a massive trading network, connecting the river markets of the interior with the coastal traders. The wide river also allows the city to take advantage of the burgeoning Windship trade connecting it with inland trading partners once thought impossible. The Dugsbridge, a major land crossing over the Liger, connects Akitania and Letha, while old imperial roads bring in trade from the Northeast.  

Notable Trading Routes

 

Along the Liger, Naoned is connected with major cities like Angers, Tours and Orleans, passing through the agricultural powerhouse of Anjev. Along the Erzh, the gentle river flows through marshland, connecting with the Marches of Ancenis and La Mee, as well as agricultural districts outside of Naoned. The Sevre, on the South side of the Liger, connects the city with the Viscounty of Retz and the March of Naoned Vignobles, bringing the fruits of the regions vineyards into the city.

Along the coast, Naoned's largest trading partners are Gwened and Port De La Lune, serving as the median point between the two and a common stop on longer trading routes. Naoned also serves as a stopping point in both directions with voyages around the Armorican Peninsula, with many ships heading directly around the peninsula to the ports of Northern Letha, La Manche and the Cloth Cities. Likewise, it has active trade through the Gates of Ruin into the Mor Kreizdouar, actively engaging with trading ports in the Golden Sea and Slaver's Coast.

Imports and Exports

  Naoned is the largest port in Northern Kornôgel for sugar, wine and slave labour, though this last is currently officially banned in the Duchy. Press gangs still roam the docks for unlucky souls, however, and the trade persists underground.   Other exports include salt, tin, fabrics and hemp, while major imports included exotic woods, stone and spices from further afield. Coffee, Teas and Cotton are also profitable imports from Iram and Slaver's Coast. The great variety to these commodities has allowed the city to become a thriving trading hub, with guilds and noble agents creating a complex network of fares, levies, taxes and customs, as well as a sophisticated system of banking and administration to handle the constant flow of commerce.   The South bank of the Liger is dominated by fisheries and fishing docks, bringing in large hauls from both the sea and the Rivers, including shrimp, sardines, eels, lamprey and pike. The South Bank is the less developed of the two sides, but several villages, such as La Turballe and Le Croisic, have risen up to support this industry, largely ignored by the metropolitan North.  

Other Industries

  A modest, but thriving shipbuilding industry, located on the riverbanks in Richebourg, the Grimward and the South Bank, is also active in the city, with new trading vessels for both oceanic and river travel being constructed and repaired at all times.   Naoned is home to a small, but notorious university of the Arkane and alchemy, under the patronage of the Dugs of Letha, located in the Papegault District. While not as large or distinguished as facilities in Roazhon or the Abbey of Fontevraud, it is still a regional gathering point for magical research, with a reputation for unrestrained flights of fancy and occasionally dangerous experiments.

Water Management and Navigation

  Naoned is defined by its relationship with the water, located at the confluence of the Liger and the Erzh River, as the former widens to drain into the bay. Built on a marshy Aber, the city is filled with canals, streams, lagoons and waterways, with networks of bridges and walkways connecting dozens of smaller islands. The waterways of Naoned range in size and complexity from wide canals to small drainage troughs, all to manage the constant flow of water through the city. The city is at the whim of both seasonal flooding and dramatic tidal shifts from the bay, affecting the level of the river well East of the city walls. Many of the low-lying districts, such as the Forest and the Grimward, are built on floating docks that rise and fall slightly with the tide, while locks and Kriores built drainage systems mitigate the worst of the damage. Still, in heavy flooding, the city can be inundated with water.   As a result, much of the city, especially on the West bank of the Erzh, is built along a network of quais and docks, allowing for easy transition from water to land. Past the high-tide line, the cities industry has sprouted, with workshops, inns, taverns and warehouses serving those at the water's edge. Higher areas of hills and landfill, found in the Northeast of the city, is home to more heavy and elaborate construction of the Church, wealthy merchants and nobility. Throughout the city, sunken piles are driven down into the marshy soil to provide additional support.   The most dramatic flood control system is the Undertown, a network of tunnels, cisterns and aqueducts created by the Kriores of Gargantua. These tunnels form a subterranean web, allowing for additional storage, transportation and housing, in addition to their primary purpose. It is said that the "goblin road", the underground canal network, has a route that can bring one from the Dug's island castle to Ker-Malestred, although this rumor has not been confirmed. What is known is that the network can take one anywhere in the city. As such it has become popular with tradesmen and smugglers, even supporting indigent populations in its depths. The majority of Kriores live in these tunnels.   Small craft navigate the larger canals, above and below the surface, in congestion equal to pedestrian traffic above, in many ways serving as a secondary street network.  

Bridges

 

Extra-muros Bridges

The city is built on a peninsula between two rivers, surrounded on three sides by water. Four bridges allow access, 2 from the North, 1 from the West, and 1 from the South. The Northeast bridge, Pont Communeau, crosses the Erzh to the village of Marchix, which follows the band of the Erzh River to the Northwest, where the Rescue Bridge, where the relief to break the Siege of Naoned arrived from, connects to the intra-muros neighborhoods on the West bank of the Erzh through a fortified enclosure.. The Western bridge, also known as Victory Bridge, connects the Mask district and Quai de la Fosse across a channel of the Erzh, stopping on a fortified island. The Southern Bridge, the Pont du Dug, is the most crucial, providing the last crossing of the river before the bay. The Pont du Dug is actually a series of small bridges and roads, hopping the southern river islands to the South bank of the Liger. The stretch between Dugsgate, Feydeau Island and Gloriette Island is decorated with statues depicting the Kings and Dugs of Letha from Gradlon Mwar to Dug Yann II.  

Intra-Muros Bridges

A wide stretch of the Erzh River cuts through the center of the city walls, separating the main city of the East Bank from the Mask District, while a channel runs along the Western ramparts. The northernmost bridge is Fishersbridge and is built as part of the Northern rivergate, known as Fishersgate. Traveling South, the serpent's bridge is the newest of the bridges, donated by the Nathair community after the Siege of Naoned in 1097 SI. Small stalls line the path on both sides, selling utensils and small items. Next is the Pont du Vin, also known as Thievesbridge, is heavily built up, lined with jeweler's shops and apartments. Aside from a the sloping arch of the walkway and a few gaps in the building, there is little indication that one is on a bridge at all. The Southernmost, corresponding with the primary rivergate, is Foundersbridge, an elevated walkway between two towers, carved in the likenesses of Alan II and Gradlon Mwar.  

Trade Infrastucture

  The primary harbor of Naoned is Quai de la Fosse, located along the wide stretch of the Liger River West of the city walls, leading from the Mask District to the Grimward. This long granite quai services ocean going and coastal ships. as well as windships that land in the river.   The Port du Vin, located within the city walls on the East bank of the Erzh, was at one time the primary dock for the city, but as ships and demand grew, it fell out of relevance for the maritime trade, reworking to focus on the smaller rivercraft from the Liger, Erzh and Sevre rivers that converge near the city. It remains one of the busiest harbors in Northwest Kornôgel. Due to the proximity of the river, the city does not have a dedicated Windspire, although small spires for personal craft are common on noble estates outside of the city walls.   Other small docking facilities, such as at the Andennspire, Bourgneuf and the South Bank of the Liger service additional shipping, but focus heavily of local trade and small craft.   A specialized riverport, Quai Mellier, is a fortified section of the Southern walls on the Liger, used exclusively as a military port and for the Dug's private use.  

Other Infrastructure

 

The primary burial site, located on the outskirts of the city, is an old Imperial Necropolis, a large complex of tunnels and rooms that extend deep under the ground.

Following an outbreak of the Yellow Plague, the city ordered the construction of a new latrine and plumbing system, one of the most complex in Kornôgel, assisted by Kriores engineers. It was this project that led to the establishment of the large Kriores population in the Grimward.

Intra-Muros Districts

 

Cathedral Square is the home of the Cathedral of Naoned, as well as a priory, a hospital and other religious buildings. It is the centre of the Southern Church in Naoned and includes the Bishop's palace.

Forest of Naoned - The left bank of the Erzh River was once a port much like the Port du Vin opposite it, but the due to neglect and the more dramatic tidal shifts on its side, numerous ships were abandoned or left to run aground. Over time, these built up, creating the forest, a semi-permanent settlement built on the decks of these ships, floating docks and landfill, connected by inter-hull tunnels, gangplanks and bridges in the cluster of masts high above. It remains an active dock, with channels for small craft accessing the Mask District.

The Mask District is an intra-muros island between two branches of the Erzh River. Named for the elaborate stone mascarons that adorn the granite buildings that were once home to the merchants of Port du Vin, the area has gained a reputation as a "hot" quarter, known for its brothels, taverns and boarding houses for the many sailors and travelers who make their way through the port.

The Papegault District , named for a wooden parrot placed on the largest defensive tower for a yearly archery contest, takes up the Northeast corner of Intra-Muros Naoned. It is a wealthy district of merchant's housing and gardens. The Library of Gohard is located in this district.

Place d'Aiguillon, located North of Place du Vin and East of the Papegault District, this area boasts several small markets, including the Prowler's market, a black market exchange operated by the Coquillard. The Tour Moulin-Harnois, a small fortified enclosure, is the mansion of Patav Lourdaud in the city. A small convent of nuns is located in this region, with a small hospice under their control. The district is home to butter and thread merchants, with cutlery makers and swordsmiths set up along the Rue de la Salorge, a dirty alleyway running along the ramparts.

Place du Vin dominates the East bank of the Erzh, opposite the Forest. Once the primary port of the city, it has since become the secondary one, servicing small rivercraft instead of the larger seagoing vessels and cumbersome windships. Behind the docks is a thriving market district, including the largest wine market in Letha and the Bourse de Naoned, the city stock exchange and headquarters of the Lugoni Trading Company.

Place Alan II is the civic heart of Naoned, located across from the Ducal Palace, this grand public space is home to numerous administrative buildings and the primary garrison of the City Watch.

Place de Bouffay is a district built up around a large open square between Place Alan II and Port du Vin, it is a gathering point for public discourse and civic events.

Extra-Muros Districts   Ancreville is a largely agrarian district, with single story houses built along two streets resembling a 'K'. At the Crossroads of these is the "Anchor", a Kalvar carved with nautical scenes, that gives the district its name.  

Feydeau Island is located South of the city walls across the Liger, the first in several river islands connected by Dugsbridge. As the Mask District grew into a more commercial space and the stone walls of the city became less of a necessity against raiders, the wealthy merchants and nobility of the County moved to the islands, establishing private gardens, hunting ranges and spacious mansions, away from the bustle of the ports, but close enough to attend to daily business. While technically Feydeau Island is only the Northernmost river island, the term is often inclusive of the neighboring Gloriette Island and Prairie de la Madelaine.

Faubourg de Marchix is located on the Northwest bank of the Erzh River, located within defensive earthworks. A fishing and small craft quai follows the bend of the Erzh. The district supports fields and workshops, and serves to maintain the windmills located to the West.

Faubourg de Richebourg is located along the "Canal Felix" on the North bank of the Liger River, adjacent to the Mauves Prairie, one of the largest grazing grounds for livestock in the area. Housing in the district is largely along a straight street along the waterfront.

The Grimward , also known as Quai d'Aiguillon, is located to the West of Quai de la Fosse, a collection of warehouses and shantytowns built between the millstream and the cliffs that rise to the West of the city. It is the furthest settlement within the boundaries of Naoned, with the exception of the hamlet built around the Andennspire. It is largely populated by Fomorians and Gargantuan Kriores, who have taken advantage of the rocky cliff faces to build up a sizable network of tunnels and terraces.

Hameau de Pirmil , also known as Southbank or Beggardsbank, marks the terminus of the Pont du Grand Duc on the South Banks of the Liger. This less developed fishing port houses tanners, basket-makers and a small fishing port. It is considered to be the poorest district of Naoned and has a majority fomorian population.

Quai de la Fosse is a long granite wharf built along the North bank of the Liger river to the West of the Erzh river. The Quai serves as the primary port of the city, servicing maritime and windship trade due to the wide and deep stretch of river adjacent to it. At one point, the district was an upper class retreat, and the facades of the great mansions and orchards to the North serve as reminders of this time. As the city and its trading network grew larger than the intra-muros port of Port du Vin could handle, the quai was constructed and the new port was established, granaries, workshops and counting houses replacing the estates as the nobility moved to more up and coming neighborhoods. The district begins at Victory Bridge and terminates in the small shipyard that starts the Grimward.

Political Factions

 

The Staunchist faction is a large minority in the region, supporting the claims of "Sant" Charlez Blaez and House Pentevr. The group has the support of House Frihep, House Roc'han and others.

The Ermine faction, the supporters of Janed "Ar Flamme" Monforz, make up the majority of Naoned's political power, supported by House Laval and House Melusine.

 

Naoned is also infamous for the Prison de Naoned, an large island complex housing thieves, murderers and enemies of the Gallian State. The prison is well known for its horrific conditions and packed quarters, secluded in the bay and cut off by high walls. Here, Gilles de Carrier, Viscount of Retz, an Eladan Lord, acts as the warden, living as the noble sovereign of the island from a luxurious chateau. The walls are overcrowded and prone to disease outbreaks.

Commercial Factions

  The Lugoni Trading Company is headquartered in the city, controlling a vast trade empire across Alvez, owning counting houses and warehouses across the city. They are the largest mercantile guild in the city, and control a network of trade caravans, ships and windships.   The Salter's Company, headquartered in the nearby Barony of Gwenrann is a powerful lobby with a direct ear of the current Dugez and large coffers. They are among the most prolific inhabitants of the wealthy Papegault District.   Fisheman's compacts are loose, informal clubs of fishermen, often several to a district, working to ensure that they pass along information and aid to each other, often in rivalry with other clubs. While not formally established, they are an influential part of any of the riverports in the city.   The Troupe of Gargantua, originating from the Kriores settlement of Ker-Malastred, nearly controls shaft mining operations between Gwened and Naoned, and exert special influence over tin, silver and other ores. The tin-miners Guild is arguably the most powerful Korrigan-majority organization in Naoned.  

Criminal Factions

 

The Coquillard are easily the most powerful criminal organization in Naoned, under the control of Patav Lourdaud, AKA Gourmand. Originally from Aleth, the syndicate quickly and violently took over the underworld, destroying, crippling or absorbing the local gangs under a single umbrella. Cuts from almost all notable crimes in the city make their way into Gourmand's hands.

The Malandrins, a powerful thieves guild from Port de la Lune, has been pushing against the Coquillard's power, using its influence among smugglers and merchants to gain a foothold in the ports of the city, especially Quai de la Fosse.

While not a unified force, the Slavers and Press gangs, answering to both the Coquillard and Maladrins, as well as freelancers anwering to unscrupulous merchants and crooked nobles, roam to docks looking for able bodied labourers.

Naoned, located on a key river confluence in the Ar Briwer wetlands, was first established following The Tear as a remote fishing village during the time of Gradlon Mwar, growing as a trading post. Not part of Great Kernev, the petty kingdom of Werran nevertheless enjoyed friendly relations with Ker-Ys, becoming an important trading partner. It was spared the destruction that engulfed the Ar Briwer region in the tsunami that was unleashed by The Fall of Ys.   The area remained a sleepy rural area until the reign of Waroch I, the ambitious King of Gwened (~340 SI). Seeking to gain influence to counter his political rival Budig II of Kernev, who had risen to the position of the Ard Rí of Letha, Waroch turned his attention East to the Liger River Valley. The King's men took over the small fishing village, building a motte-and-bailey castle in what is now the Faubourg de Richebourg.   Naoned's influence grew during Waroch's reign, becoming the second largest city in Gwened. Its success came at a price, when Waroch was toppled by Conomor the Cursed. During the War of the Brekilien, the city became the stronghold of Alliance of the Brekilien under the command of Muldumarec Artegall. Fortified earthworks were built in the what became the Faubourg de Marchix to reinforce the position and its crucial access to the harbor and sea. During the Blood Moon Raids, Conomor's Sea Dogs, Garwaf Vikings sailed up the Liger and laid waste to the city, resulting in the heroic death of Roland of Gwitreg and the wounding of mercenary Armel Guyon. The Alliance was shattered.   Following the War, Conomor's supporters in Poher and the remains of the Sea Dogs sailing the Mor Bihan continued to pressure the city of Gwened, Naoned was able to rise above its former colonial power, leveraging its connections with Gallia and the Anjevin Clans. Power returns to Lower Letha with the ascension of Judicael I of Poher, but the East has entered the political fray as Gallia rises with strong ties to both Naoned and Gwened. During the reign of Frodaldus I (672 SI - 694 SI), these fall under the control of the Gallian crown, culminating in the campaigns against Ard Rí Morman and Wihomarc'h.   In 735 SI, King Nevenoe I of the House of Gwened is crowned, shifting power permanently to the East. Naoned rises in prominence during this time, but remains politically attached to Gwened, despite being the larger city and home of most of the regions economic power. Naoned, annexed as part of the Gallian controlled Marches of Neustria, becomes part of Letha proper.   With this transtion, the next hundred years of the city's history were marked by internal conflict between the nobility of Naoned, weakening the region against foreign threats. The city was plunged into a series of civil wars, first against Gurvand I of Roazhon, then against Judicael I of Kernev. These wars greatly weakened Naoned, allowing it to be captured by a Formorian host in 812 SI. With the capture of its largest city, Letha was quickly conquered by the Viking forces. The Feth Fiada swept across the lands, entirely covering the city, which fell into disrepair during the 30 year period of Formorian rule. The city was abandoned by the Bediz, until the Alain II reconquered the region and was crowned Dug of Letha, establishing Naoned as his capital, which it remained until the period of intrigue known as the Poisoner's Game, where control of the peninsula shifted to rival Roazhon (~894 SI). Naoned returned as the seat of Ducal power during the reign of Dug Alan IV in 972 SI   Naoned was a central in the Wars of Konstanza I, becoming an entry point for Fae refugees during the Heresy of Albi. When Konstanza refused to surrender the Nathair to Arnaud Amalric, a fleet of Akitanian warships besieged the harbor. Despite a brutal campaign, the city remained free until the Siege broke.

The Andennspire , a monumental statue of Elouan the Lanternholder, serves as the Western Kalvar of the Viscounty of Naoned, marking its border with Gwenrann.

The The Ash and Hazel Tavern and Boarding House is located in the Mask District, a lively place for locals and sailors arriving from the river ports.

 

The Bourse de Naoned is the primary commodities trading hub in the Place du Vin. A large circular building built around a central atrium beneath a crystal dome, its is the home for many of the trading and craftsman guilds in the region.

The Cathedral of Naoned is a large gothic structure located in Cathedral Square, surrounded by other Church buildings. The Cathedral is the tallest structure in the city.

The Green Man Tavern , is a dark, low building in Quai de la Fosse. It serves as the unofficial center of Korrigan civic life in the city and is a regular meeting place for the Re Vihan.

The Library of Gohard , located in the Papegault District in the Northeast of the intra-muros city, is one of the largest libraries in Letha. It is a gothic cruciform building constructed around a Manchais-style lantern tower over a central reading room, with 4 equal wings stretching off the corners. Additional cloisters, reading rooms and ancillary buildings are built around the structure.

The Palais de Justice de Naoned is the central court of the region, located in Place Alan II. A fortified complex attached to the structure serves as the garrison for the city watch and the Dug's soldiers.

The infamous Prison de Carrier is located on a rocky island in the Liger River, just before the Andennspire as the river widens.

The Three Lions Tavern , located on Feydeau Island, is an exclusive, upper class club and inn frequented by noble travelers along the Dugsbridge.

One of, if not the largest, ports in the Western Realms, Naoned has no shortage of travelers entering its gates, be it by water from the sea or river, overland along the Imperial Roads or aboard the Windships that cross the skies above. Its vast trade networks have bestowed upon the city a reputation of wealth and affluence. The nobles, guilds and wealthy merchants of the city make extravagant shows of their wealth, constructing luxurious mansions, guildhalls, private gardens, chapels and theatres. Numerous islands within and outside of the city walls are owned privately by the nobility, transformed into the private fantasies and playgrounds of their owners. Pleasure barges, laden with fine food and drink and sumptuously decorated, float along the wider riverways and picturesque private lagoons of the elite, often carefully removed from the tainted waters of the more public canals. Thermal baths are a longstanding industry in the city, heated by hypoclasts.   Wealth and influence is further illustrated in public works, resulting in the construction of numerous ornamental parks and arboretums around the city, which have established Naoned as a "garden city", with luxurious patches of dedicated greenery scattered throughout. Fountains, churches, bathhouses and entertainment venues, funded by wealthy patrons, are open to most of the public. A large public lagoon is found at the Place de Alan II, serving as a tournament ground for water-jousting and other public spectacles under the Ducal Palace. Other sites for Tournaments and public spectacle can be found across and outside of the city.   A nexus of global trade, Naoned has established itself as a gastronomical destination, renowned for its produce and spice markets. Specialties of the region include buckwheat galettes and fouace, a pillow-like brioche filled with pork rilettes, white beans and salted butter. Beurre blanc, an emulsified butter sauce made with local white wine and shallots, is commonly used as an accompaniment for many dishes, especially seafood. A rum and almond cake is a popular desert throughout the city.

Straddling the Liger river, the city is a study in contrast between the Gallian and Breton north and Akitanian South. The North Bank of the Liger is home to high buildings of tuffeau stone, schist or wattle and daub, a sea of grey slate roofs. To the South, the structures take on the orange and yellow hues of terracotta on low-slung buildings. Structures are often built on granite slabs on top of sunken piles to counteract the subsidence of the land under the heavy weight. Older buildings, such as those found in the Mask District, often have noticeable leans and ample bracing as a result of this.   Ornamentation is common for public and upper-class buildings, with vaulted ceilings, carved wooden or stone decorations and ornate windows found throughout the city. Low class housing is simpler, minimalist buildings crowded together in the poorer districts.

The Ducal city of Naoned is located at the confluence of three rivers, the Liger, the Sevr and the Erdr, a short distance before the Liger widens and empties out into the Mor Bras. The land on which the settlement is built is marshy and low, and the populace has established a complex networks of canals and lagoons to facilitate transit between the many islands, quais and docks. Ships and boats of all sizes are a part of daily life for all walks of life, and is used for transit, trade, waste disposal and entertainment. The rivers that flow through the city are tidal, with a range of up to 6 meters in extreme cases. Despite precautions, flooding is still common, especially in the lower districts of the city.   The shoreline around the city is dominated by low marshes, while the rolling hills further inland are covered in Bocage farmland and rows of grapevines, heavily cultivated to support the city and its trading partners. The Andennspire, a monumental statue of Elouan the Lanternholder, serves as the Western Kalvar of the city along the Liger River.

Winters in Naoned are typically cool and rainy, but with little snow. Summers are warm, but temperate. Rain is abundant in the area, gaining the region a reputation of it being "always raining". The hills and valleys surrounding the city create ideal conditions for fog, and the city has become inundated with the Feth Fiada in the past. The temperate climate allows for a level of floral diversity unusual in Breizh, and plants from further North and South both thrive in the region's fertile clay soil.

The primary resource of Naoned is its crucial location along the Liger river, giving it trade access deep inland, as well as to the Mor Bras and lands across the sea. However, while its trade network is complex and thriving, local industries are present as well.   Large deposits of tin can be found scattered throughout the County of Naoned, and the mining and refining of this metal has become one of the city's primary industries, with exports reaching as far as the Fortunate Isles.   Salt is another major resource, harvested from the low salt-marshes along the coast surrounding the city. Salt-farmers dig large networks of basins and channel to ensure the continued supply of saltwater, which is then cut off and allowed to dry for easy harvesting. Since Imperial times, the industry has grown considerably, with most exports from the region making their way to Naoned for transport further afield.   Further inland, the region's fertile soil allows for the cultivation of corn, leeks, radishes and carrots. Wine is produced in in the surrounding regions, most notably the white wines of the nearby March of Naoned Vignobles, which serves as the rural holdings for many of the nobility living in the city proper. By Ducal decree, all vineyards must be held by noble owners with an annual tithe paid or they will revert to the Duke. These vineyards provide lucrative income for the families that control them, are are highly sought after commodities of Ducal favour.