Aetheria Machinara

Aetheria Machinara is an intense industrial city enshrouded in consistent overcast and heavy fog. During the day, the people go about their business under guidance from the Church of Light. At night, most choose to hide away in their homes in an effort to keep safe from that which comes out in the dark. Factional ideologies are not an uncommon sight, with certain neighborhoods noted by locals as belonging to a particular 'gang' of sorts. Occasionally people go missing. Occasionally they end up dead in the streets. It's fortunate that there are those who would stand up to protect the average person: the Hunters.

Demographics

Gnomes, Goblins, Dwarves, and Humans are the most common humanoids that take up residence within the city. Tieflings are not uncommon, but face a fair amount of prejudice. Kobolds are occasionally seen working underground. Wild animals roaming the streets are also not an uncommon sight.

There are clear class delineations throughout the city primarily separated by the city's spoke-like design. Nicer neighborhoods are frequently gated to prevent unauthorized entry; tho there are few of these.

Government

AeMach's government is operated by representatives of the various industrial unions, as well as members of the Hunter's Guild and the Church of Light. These representatives are chosen every two years by Union members. Similarly, the meeting location for the Government changes hands during these election cycles on a rotational bases (with the Hunters' Guild and Church excluded as options).

Funding for public works is paid primarily though income tax and church tithes. Elected representatives receive their normal pay with their duties adjusted for their service period to balance their normal work with their political duties.

Infrastructure

Aside from fears of local gangs and rumors of disappearances, the overall infrastructure of the city is quite walkable with consistent intermingling of industrial, commercial and residential zoning. The roads that connect the various neighborhoods are well maintained with frequent taxi services available even after hours. For swifter travel across the city, airships are available from various servicing platforms, though this tends to be more expensive.

Guilds and Factions

Most of what might count for factions would be the various Union organizations for the city's numerous trades and crafts and other labors. These very widely, with members and heads working tirelessly to ensure employees are met with fair pay, hours, and safety measures.

There are two other well known factions that reside within the city.

The Church of Light

The Church of Light is host to a collection of devout worshipers and servants of an Entity referred to solely as 'the Light' by those within the city. The Church provides spiritual counseling and other services such as food, shelter, and healing to those in need.

The Church has a clear hierarchical structure and are headed by Mother Saerah who oversees the rest of the congregation.

The Hunters Guild

The Hunters operate as something of a police force within the city walls similar to the Trail Wardens in Nexus but without the same levels of bureaucracy and oversight. They are typically called in to investigate deaths and disappearances as well as other reported suspicious activities.

The Hunters have no real structure and operate more as a loose collective of independent actors. They tend, however, to be keenly aware of the strengths of their fellow guild members and know who to call in when situations call for it.

Points of interest

The Church of Light

Located at the top of the northern tower, with access to the Star of Hope, this immaculate building acts as a place of worship and as a safe haven within the city walls. The attendants within welcome all visitors for worship and guidance.

Midnight Tower

The city's southern tower, topped by the Dire Star, what once may have been another place of worship has long since fallen into disrepair. Local ruffians have taken over the tower for their own.

The Heart of the City

The city's central tower actually reaches deep beneath the earth as well as high into the sky. A massive mechanical clocktower rests atop its peak. The tower was once the city's industrial hub, a massive factory whose purpose now lies unknown. Some residents have taken to trying to repair this place piece by piece. Sometimes, a glint of light can be seen at the tower's peak.

Architecture

The industrial history of AeMach is reflected in its architecture with large buildings constructed of brick and brass and copper. Dwarvish influence is heavily reflected throughout with a focus on thick lines and geometric shapes.

Personal decor varies district by district with western districts seemingly focused on significant amounts of drapery and flowers while eastern districts lean more into a recycled industrial appeal.

Climate

The skies over AeMach are overcast more often than not and the fog that sits heavy on Brassfounder's street often bleeds into the city walls. The citizens are no stranger to rain and chilly conditions.

Alternative Name(s)
AeMach
Type
Large city
Inhabitant Demonym
Gearhead
Characters in Location
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Cover image: Aetheria Machinara by yhelsstuff

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