Certon

The city of Certon is the capital and seat of power for the western nation of Vindraxos. Also known as "The Eternal City", after the Eternal Queen Avellisse Vindraxos, it is a large city surrounded by a sturdy wall of a dark, grey stone, that give the city the outside appearance of a dour fortress. The wall and other defenses, manned by the Bleak Guard are often called "a necessary evil" by the ruler, and they form a stark contrast with the city within the walls that features wide promenades, lot's of greenery, and many public art pieces. This reflects the disposition of the Eternal Queen and her people in which they accept death as a part of daily life - though not necessarily an end - and pour all their energies in the persuits that make life worthwhile. The city, therefore, hosts an exceptionally large number of taverns, theatres, parks, art studios, and artisan's workshops.   Many flock to the city, however, not for leisure or in search of art, but for learning. Certon boasts a lively scholarly schene, closely linked to the renowned Mortis academy complex, which is situated in its own district within the city. Within one can find a library, specialised shops, book binders, and of course the magical academy itself that teaches all schools of magic, but places a large emphasis on the school of necromancy to teach many of the important state officials and other magic practicioners the fundamentals and responsible ethics of this magic school so mistrusted outside of Vindraxos. In front of the academy is a large, circular square surrounding a set of incredibly detailed sculptures depicting three important moments in the life of the eternal queen; her banishment from Athis Val, her death during the Valmith schism, and her resurrection as an arch lich. The sculptures are a well known monument to Vindraxians and are meant to allow its residents to reflect on their unique situation. Necromancy may be forbidden and mistrusted by most of the world, but it allowed the nation of Vindraxos to prosper.