Lithorion Thalas

Before the occupation, Lithorion Thalas thrived under a government that embraced Dragonborn traditions and principles of communal governance. The city was led by the Council of Elders, a group of respected and wise individuals chosen for their knowledge, experience, and commitment to the well-being of the community. Decision-making involved open discussions, and the voice of each citizen was valued in shaping the city's future.   However, with the onset of the Tertius Empire's occupation, the governance structure underwent a drastic transformation. The Council of Elders was disbanded, its members either ousted or co-opted to serve the imperial administration as figureheads. In its place, the Tertius Empire installed an imperial governor, appointed to rule with an iron fist on behalf of the empire. The governor wielded absolute authority, backed by a militarized presence that maintained control through fear and oppression.   Imperial law replaced the city's previous legal framework, suppressing Dragonborn traditions and implementing harsh policies that stifled dissent. Any form of resistance was met with severe consequences, from imprisonment to public punishments meant to serve as a deterrent. The once-open governance became a closed system, where decisions were dictated from above, and the citizens of Lithorion Thalas were forced into submission.   The change in governance left a void where once there was community engagement and shared responsibility. Now, the city's inhabitants live under a regime that values compliance over collaboration, and the spirit of communal governance has been replaced by the heavy hand of imperial rule. The transformation of the city's government stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom within the walls of Lithorion Thalas.

Lithorion Thalas, situated to the east of Laëril, adapted its economic activities to thrive in the challenging environment of the grasslands and deserts. Before the Tertius Empire's invasion, the city's inhabitants engaged in a variety of occupations that contributed to the settlement's prosperity.   Trade and Commerce: The city served as a crucial trade hub, facilitating the exchange of goods between the grasslands, deserts, and other neighboring regions. Merchants from the eastern wilds brought unique resources, exotic materials, and rare artifacts, contributing to the city's economic diversity.   Agriculture and Herding: Despite the arid surroundings, Lithorion Thalas practiced innovative agricultural techniques and herding. Specialized crops and livestock adapted to the harsh conditions allowed the city to sustain itself and provide surplus resources for trade.   Craftsmanship and Stonework: The abundance of stone from the nearby desert steppes fueled a thriving stonework industry. Skilled craftsmen created intricate sculptures, durable buildings, and defensive fortifications. Stoneworkers were highly respected for their craftsmanship, contributing to the city's architectural uniqueness.   Magical Studies: With the inherent magical potential of the region, some inhabitants dedicated themselves to magical studies. Scholars explored the magical properties of the land, contributing to a local magical academy that attracted students and researchers interested in harnessing the unique energies of the eastern landscapes.  

Imports and Exports:

Before the invasion, Lithorion Thalas engaged in a dynamic trade network, importing and exporting goods that complemented the city's resources:   Imports: Fine textiles, spices, and magical artifacts from the eastern wilds were sought-after imports. The city valued these exotic goods, enhancing the quality of life and serving as symbols of prestige and cultural exchange.   Exports: Lithorion Thalas exported its surplus agricultural products, stonework, and magical items. The unique flora and fauna adapted to the eastern landscapes became sought-after commodities, attracting traders and merchants from distant regions.  

Post-Invasion Economic Challenges:

Following the Tertius Empire's invasion, the economic dynamics of Lithorion Thalas underwent a drastic change. The oppressive rule led to the disruption of traditional trade routes and the exploitation of the city's resources for imperial gains.

The infrastructure of Lithorion Thalas underwent a significant shift after the Tertius Empire's occupation, as the once-proud Dragonborn cityscape adapted to serve the needs of imperial dominance. Lithorion Thalas, in its formative years, was built with practicality and defensive capabilities in mind. The city was constructed primarily from the sturdy stone quarried from the nearby desert steppes, providing a robust foundation that could withstand external threats. The architectural style reflected the utilitarian nature of the outpost, with fortified walls, watchtowers, and gatehouses strategically placed to guard against potential invasions.   As the outpost gradually evolved into a proper city, the focus on defense persisted. Additional residential areas, markets, and civic buildings were added, expanding beyond the initial defensive structures. Despite the growth, the original stone architecture remained a prominent feature, creating a unique blend of practicality and functionality.   The Tertius Empire's occupation led to alterations in the city's infrastructure. Imperial fortifications were imposed upon the existing stone structures, altering the once-harmonious defensive design. Watchtowers were heightened, and the city's layout was reconfigured to suit imperial logistics. The original stone structures, while still present, were overshadowed by the imposing additions, reflecting the shift from a defensive outpost to a symbol of imperial dominance.

Lithorion Thalas had humble beginnings as a defensive outpost during the early years of the First Astral Era. Founded in the year 476, the settlement emerged at the eastern frontier of Laëril to safeguard against potential threats arising from the expansive grasslands and deserts. Built primarily from the abundant stone of the nearby desert steppes, the outpost's architecture prioritized practicality and defense.   Over the centuries, Lithorion Thalas evolved, transforming from a mere outpost into a thriving city. The inhabitants cultivated a strong sense of community, and the outpost's strategic location facilitated trade with neighboring regions. As the Umbral Era unfolded, marked by the Primordial Soulforge altering geological landscapes and necessitating relocations, Lithorion Thalas was one of the rare settlements to remain and endure thanks to __, a humble guard who discovered a talent for leadership under the exceptionnal circumstances of the time. His wise decisions and great foresight allowed him to become know as The Stalwart Sage, the enduring guardian of Lithorion Thalas.   The city weathered the challenges posed by the Umbral Era, adapting to the transformed environment. The stone structures, originally crafted for defense, took on new significance as a symbol of endurance. The citizens embraced their surroundings, finding harmony with the altered landscapes while maintaining their commitment to a shared future.   In the year 238 of the Second Astral Era, the tranquility of Lithorion Thalas was shattered by the ruthless invasion of the Tertius Empire. Seeking to expand its territories, the empire targeted the city due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Laëril. The once-defensive outpost found itself under siege, facing a formidable adversary.   Despite valiant efforts by the city's defenders, the Tertius Empire emerged victorious in 239, imposing its oppressive rule upon Lithorion Thalas. The Council of Elders was disbanded, and the city's governance structure was replaced by an imperial governor appointed to enforce the will of the empire.   Imperial forces transformed the city's infrastructure, incorporating imposing fortifications and watchtowers that overshadowed the original stone structures. The once-proud outpost, now under occupation, became a symbol of resistance as pockets of rebellion persisted, hidden within the altered architecture of Lithorion Thalas.