Mythralis

Introduction

Mythralis is a thriving metropolis located in the southern part of the Keraian Empire, steeped in history and rich with cultural heritage. Once the capital of a grand elven kingdom, the city now flourishes upon the remnants of its storied past. Situated on the coast, Mythralis boasts a striking view of Sentinel's Watch, a small island fort that stands sentinel on the horizon.

The city’s architecture reflects a blend of majestic elven elegance and imperial grandeur. Its streets are a maze of narrow, winding alleys lined with colorful, ornate buildings, their intricate stonework and graceful arches echoing the city’s ancient heritage. The waterfront is a bustling hub, featuring lively marketplaces, vibrant cafes, and bustling docks where merchants and sailors from across the empire converge. Elegant promenades and expansive plazas offer stunning views of the sea, and the scent of saltwater mingles with the rich aroma of spices and local cuisine. Mythralis’ skyline is adorned with towering spires and domes, casting a captivating silhouette against the backdrop of the ocean.

Founding

Mythralis holds deep historical significance as the oldest settlement of Keraian, dating back nearly nine centuries. As the capital of the ancient elven kingdom under King Vaeril Le'Quella, it witnessed the rise and fall of an era. The city's transition from elven to human rule marked a pivotal moment in Keraian history, especially after The Condore Dynasty dynasty, led by Alarin I Condore, defeated the elves and claimed the region. In an effort to break from the past, Alarin moved the empire's capital to Thandor in 15 ADA, further emphasizing the shift in power and the human dominance over the region. The relocation to Thandor was a strategic and symbolic decision, one that severed the link between Keraian’s elven past and its human future.

Mythralis, though no longer the capital, continues to hold immense significance for the Empire. Its strategic location and rich history kept it relevant, ensuring its survival and eventual transformation into a thriving metropolis. Today, with a population of approximately 130,000, the city stands as a testament to both its storied past and its adaptability, drawing on its elven heritage while embracing the imperial growth that followed.

Goverment

Mythralis operates under a unique form of governance characterized by a council of influential merchants. The city’s political structure is managed by a Parliament composed of ten members, all of whom are prominent figures within the powerful Merchant Guild. These merchant leaders wield considerable authority, making decisions that shape the city’s economic and social landscape. Although the council answers to the Empire, their relationship with the central authority is more indirect, allowing them a significant degree of independence in local matters. This system enables the council to navigate the city’s affairs with a focus on commerce and trade, reflecting the interests of the Merchant Guild while maintaining a delicate balance with imperial directives. The council's independence and its members' deep ties to the economic lifeblood of Mythralis ensure that the city remains a vibrant and self-sufficient hub of prosperity.

City Layout

1. Seasfarer's Harbor
   
   This is the bustling port district of Mythralis, serving as the gateway to the closed Sea of Syralis. This vital maritime hub facilitates trade and travel to key destinations such as the cities of Pariant and the dwarven lands of Louthiran, as well as providing a route to the Aerithia Archipelago. The district is alive with the clamor of commerce, from the creak of ships unloading goods to the vibrant exchanges in the market stalls that line the docks. The harbor is lined with sturdy warehouses, lively taverns, and the grand offices of trading companies, all set against a backdrop of tall masts and billowing sails. The scent of saltwater and cargo mingles with the sounds of seagulls and the shouts of dockworkers, creating a dynamic atmosphere that embodies the city’s role as a crucial maritime center.