Hollow Lake

The population is primarily human, but Hollow Lake also hosts a significant number of half-elves, halflings, dwarves, and other races due to its status as a trade hub. This diversity is reflected in the variety of cultural influences found throughout the city.

Hollow Lake is ruled by King Richard Koffre, whose palace sits in the heart of the city. The king presides over a central council made up of noble families, merchants, and advisors, who manage the city's affairs and trade relations. The city's governance is heavily centered on commerce and ensuring its continued dominance as the economic heart of Nunca.

The city is naturally defended by the surrounding lake and mountains. The only access points, the harbor and the bridge, are heavily guarded by the Royal Guard. The city also maintains a standing army and navy, with watchtowers along the shores of the lake and regular patrols.

Hollow Lake is a commercial powerhouse. Its primary industries are trade, shipping, and manufacturing. The city is the gateway for goods flowing in and out of the Ancient Reach, with imports including exotic textiles, spices, and metals, while exports include high-quality craftsmanship, agricultural products, and jewels mined from the Dragon Spine mountains.

The city is highly developed, with well-maintained roads, bridges, and waterways that support the flow of goods and people. The massive bridge connecting Hollow Lake to the mainland is an architectural marvel, essential for the trade and travel that sustains the city. Numerous ports line the edges of the lake, with shipyards constantly bustling with activity. The city also boasts a sophisticated aqueduct system, providing clean water to its residents.

The Harbor District: Hollow Lake’s bustling port, where merchants and traders from distant lands converge. Ships laden with exotic goods are constantly arriving and departing, making this district the city’s economic engine.   The Merchant’s Quarter: This district houses the majority of the city's shops, markets, and warehouses. Here, visitors will find everything from everyday supplies to rare and expensive treasures. It is also where the most influential merchant guilds operate.   The Palace District: Located in the city’s center, this district is home to King Koffre's palace, government buildings, and the estates of noble families. It is the most secure and prestigious area of Hollow Lake.   The Foreign Quarter: A district where non-human residents and travelers live, often offering a mix of cultures and unique goods. It is a lively area, known for its food stalls, festivals, and open markets.   The Blackstone Alley: A less reputable district where rumors of the Black Blade assassin guild thrive. Though hidden from the public eye, this alley is the heart of Hollow Lake's underworld.

Hollow Lake’s central location on a large island with easy access to both sea and land routes makes it a critical trade hub. The ports, the bridge, and the city’s marketplace are its most significant assets, as well as its proximity to the Dragon Spine mountains for resources. Hollow Lake also holds vast storage facilities for precious goods and trade items.

The Merchant's Guild: One of the most powerful entities in Hollow Lake, ensuring the smooth flow of commerce and managing relations with other regions.   The Black Blade: A mysterious and feared assassin guild rumored to operate out of Hollow Lake. Little is known about their internal workings, but their reputation for precision and ruthlessness keeps them in the shadows.

Hollow Lake was founded in 1000 BGW as a small trading post, but its natural defenses and prime location soon attracted more settlers. It gradually grew into a bustling city, becoming the capital of Nunca after the signing of the Treaty of Radiant Dawn in 150 AGW. Throughout its history, Hollow Lake has faced few external threats, but its internal politics and trade disputes have created ongoing power struggles. The city’s wealth and prosperity have often made it the target of intrigue and rebellion, though King Koffre’s iron-fisted rule keeps most dissent in check.

The King's Palace: A grand structure in the Palace District, where King Koffre rules over Nunca.   The Grand Bridge: The impressive bridge connecting Hollow Lake to the mainland, both a marvel of engineering and a critical trade route.   The Docks: The lifeblood of Hollow Lake’s trade, always teeming with ships and workers.   The Market Square: The largest market in the Ancient Reach, where merchants from all over gather to sell their goods.   The Silver Light Cathedral: A majestic temple dedicated to Solara, the Radiant One, where worship and important ceremonies are held.

Hollow Lake’s architecture is practical yet elegant. Buildings are made from sturdy stone and wood, with sweeping arches and expansive windows to allow natural light. The city lacks the ornate spires of other capital cities, but its functional beauty reflects the industrious nature of its people. The Grand Bridge and the harbor structures are architectural highlights, showcasing the city’s engineering prowess.

Situated on an island within the shimmering Hollow Lake, the city is surrounded by water on all sides, with the Dragon Spine mountains looming in the distance. This geography provides the city with both natural beauty and protection.

The city enjoys a mild and temperate climate, with cool breezes coming off the water in summer and relatively mild winters due to the surrounding mountains. The lake’s reflective surface often bathes the city in golden light during sunrise and sunset.

Hollow Lake has access to fresh water from the lake, fish, and other aquatic resources. The nearby Dragon Spine mountains are rich in gems, precious metals, and stone, which are mined and traded throughout the Ancient Reach.