Nelskrol

Nelskrol is governed by an elected city council known as the Chairs, a body that reflects the city’s emphasis on deliberation, representation, and public performance. Debate within the council is famously long, procedural, and often theatrical. From among them, a First Chair is chosen to preside, set agendas, and serve as the city’s chief executive voice.

Alongside the Chairs stands the Impresario, a hybrid role unique to Nelskrol, combining ambassador, diplomat, cultural envoy, and political operator. The Impresario represents the city’s interests within Gattland and abroad. Though formally appointed by the Chairs, the position carries considerable independent authority.

The symbolic heart of Nelskrol’s governance lies with the Kresherkiln family, long-time patrons of the arts whose influence persists through wealth, reputation, and access rather than direct rule. Dame Jarolina Kresherkiln, current head of the family, remains a central figure in the city’s political and cultural life.

Nelskrol rose to prominence not through conquest or industry, but through accumulation of talent. Its location along northern trade routes and within the dramatic geography of the Bahtfall made it a natural meeting place for ideas, styles, and techniques. Over centuries, artists and performers settled here, supported by patrons who believed that cultural prestige was a form of power worth cultivating.

The city's emphasis on experimentation, improvisation, and cultural autonomy often puts it at odds with the rest of Gattland, especially Gatt.

The Civic Resonarium

Nelskrol’s great hall of sound, performance, and public assembly. Designed for both formal concerts and improvised symphonies, it is considered a civic institution rather than a private venue.

Symphony Square

A grand plaza adjoining the Resonarium, ringed by arcades, cafés, and instrument vendors. Impromptu performances are common, and debates about art and politics often spill into the open air.

The Blushing Bridegroom

A bustling café favored by artists, intellectuals, and professional provocateurs. Poetry, song, and argument are served alongside wine and strong spirits.

The Kresherkiln Gardens

A public green space donated by the Kresherkiln family, used for outdoor concerts, salons, and quiet meetings that are rarely as informal as they appear.

The Midnight Dram

Part cabaret, part tavern, part boarding house, the Midnight Dram offers refuge to those living outside accepted norms.

Tourism in Nelskrol is driven almost entirely by its reputation as the artistic capital of Gattland, and at the center of that reputation stands the Civic Resonarium. Visitors arrive not just to attend performances, but to witness the city’s most famous invention: the improvised symphony. Unlike traditional compositions, these performances are assembled live from shared motifs, gestures, and cues, with musicians responding to one another in real time under the guidance of a conductor.