- Classification: Metropolis
- Population: 66,000
- Wealth: Wealthy
- Major Industry: Baths/Spas, Marble, Books
- Specialty Goods: Salted Lakefin Perch, Mithril arms and armor, Magic
- Populace Average Alignment: Neutral
- Leader Alignment: Neutral
- Government and Leadership: Feudal Monarchy, Count Liam Du'Ne'Sina
| Human: 42% | Half-Elf: 15% | Elf: 24% |
| Dwarf: 2% | Gnome: 7% | Halfling: 8% |
| Half-Orc: <1% | Other: 1% |
History: Capaal is an ancient city. Some historians claim to trace its origins back to the Precursors, stating that one of the Dragon lords themselves ruled from a throne near the city. Numerous (now abandoned) dragon caves near the city give credence to these theories, though no definitive signs of their existence remains. The earliest known records of a settlement however lies in the annals of the Elven histories, which indicate a fishing village existed sometime around EH 100.
Situated next to the largest fresh water lake on the continent, Capaal quickly grew into a sizable elven community. When humans began settling the Dyninn, the elven lords at first forbid them from entering the city. They would instead go on to found Tourmaline, who would grow to rival Capaal for influence in the region. When non-elves were finally permitted to settle in Capaal, the transformation was rapid. Scholars and magicians flocked to Capaal, seeking access to the elven lore. Money poured into the city as well, and the city became a haven for luxury and power.
City Lore: Capaal consists of three main districts: the University district, the Old City, and Cliffside. The University district is given over almost entirely to mundane learning, arcane studies, and other such past times. It is almost a city unto itself, with its own set of walls and militia to keep the students from the distractions prevalent in the Old City. The University of Capaal was the first university founded in the realms, and is renowned for its status and quality of education. Several other smaller schools and colleges also operate in the University district. Crime is low, usually just being petty vandalism and such by youthful students.
The Old City is where the rich go to play and live, in extreme wealth and comfort. Crime is almost non-existent here, thanks to the well-heeled militia that protects the interests of the cities elite. Luxury spas, villas, and restaurants abound, as do high prices and exorbitant fees, in this district, which overlooks Lake Capaal from the city's prime real estate atop the lake cliffs.
Cliffside is where everyone else lives, namely those that service the Old City: the maids and servants, the spa attendants and restaurant cooks. It sits at the bottom of the lake cliffs, next to Lake Capaal and below the Old City. Crime is a problem, as it is densely crowded, and the residents are poor and ill treated. The militia have a low presence, usually only showing up for severe disturbances. Capaal seems to have a Cliffside revolt every few decades.
The weather in Capaal is mild, thanks to the lake effect. Spring is usually rainy, with a dry, hot summer with frequent thunderstorms. Autumn is warm and mild with a fair bit of rain, followed by a short cold season. The city sometimes receives one or two snowfalls in the winter, but many years none at all.
Cuisine in Capaal is based on the lake, with many dishes involving the local perch, trout, and bass species. Fresh vegetables, tubers, and fruits are available practically year round. Many excellent wineries are in the area.
Count Liam Du'Ne'Sina is the continents first half-elven Count, and has ruled the city peacefully and successfully for over two decades. The city houses each of the Arcane Guildtowers, and has a temple or shrine for all of the major, legal religions. The Axebashers and the Sword and Shield Association both have guild halls in the city. The Black Wolf Crew, a bloodthirsty gang of bandits-cum-thieves runs the black market in Capaal. They've switched mostly to prostitution and gambling, though have been known to get involved in extortion, burglary, and pretty much any other lucrative crime.
Landmarks/Places of Interest:
- Dragon Caves - just outside the city are many large caves in the limestone hills purported to have been used by dragons in ages past. Souvenirs abound.
- The Grand Spa - near the lakes edge, hot springs and thermal vents create a natural spa effect. The heady vapors are said to expand ones feelings of well-being and contentment. Only for those with a healthy collection of platinum coins.
- The Elven Quarter - centered around the original fishing village, the architecture has not changed for centuries, giving visitors a glimpse into the ancient past.
