Arborlon (Metropolis)

  • Classification: Metropolis
  • Population: 81,000
  • Wealth: Wealthy
  • Major Industry: Education, Culture, Magic
  • Specialty Goods: Spellweave, Magic Items, Music
  • Populace Average Alignment: Chaotic Good
  • Leader Alignment: Chaotic Good
  • Government and Leadership: Feudal Monarchy, Countess Al'weth'tha Galaviel
Demographics:
Human: 12% Half-Elf: 16% Elf: 56%
Dwarf: <1% Gnome: 5% Halfling: 8%
Half-Orc: <1% Other: 2%

History: Arborlon is thought to be one of the oldest cities on the continent. Elven history states that the city was founded by those that fled the wrath of the pre-cursors, before the Dawn of Man, possibly from the area around Capaal. This would make it even older than that city by several centuries.

Built upon the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Lohst-Lach, Arborlon is a city of ageless beauty and teeming with magical wonder. At one time Arborlon was the capital of the great Arborlorian Kingdom, before their defeat at the hands of the humans out of Tourmaline. Arborlon had the favorable distinction of having been spared the ravages of the Rising of the Three, as the elven elders placed the city in a stasis field that prevent the Three from destroying it, and allowing it to greatly expedite the local recovery when the city finally emerged from its timeless self-imposed slumber.

City Lore: Arborlon is a city that seemlessly merges the ancient marble tower structures of the Arborlonian elves with the more terran architecture of its non-elf residents. The city itself resembles the core of a tree: the city center is the oldest part of the city, with successive "rings" expanding outward housing more progressive architecture and services.

At its heart the Nim-Barad, or city center, holds the White Tower, the residence of Countess Al'weth'tha Galaviel, who has ruled over Arborlon for well over 150 years. She not only represents Arborlon and the surrounding baronies, but also serves as the Earl of Arborlonia, the representative of elven cocerns in the Dyninn region. The White Tower is also where the Elder Council presides. Few are allowed into this sacred heart of the elven city.

The next is the Iant-Tal, or Old City. It is an esteemed location of learning and study, housing the Arborlonian University as well as the Arcane Guildtowers. The Citadel of the Spellweavers is here, as is the Shrine of Neravenwyn Silleastril.

Next is the Tkumba, or the Belly, of the city. It is the main mercantile and residential district, and holds many of the cities most famed culture buildings: the Naemanthe Symphony Hall, the Televariel Theatre, and the Amphitheatre of Haedhen for which Arborlon is most well known and respected.

Outside of the Tkumba is the Talwi, the great sprawl of residences, inns, and taverns, where the majority of the non-elves live.

Being on the north coast of Muriah, Arborlon is naturally a hot, wet place: it borders the great Tuluvian rainforest. Enchantments over the city however mollify the heat and humidity, especially in the main city quarters. Thus those living in the Nim-Barad, Ian-Tal, or Tkumba parts of the city are comfortable year-round. For those new to the city, entering the Tkumba on business from the Talwi for the first time is a surprisingly pleasant experience, especially at the height of summer. (The magical enchantments only affect temperature; the torrential rains of spring and fall affect everyone in the city.)

Life in Arborlon is one of constant entertainment, and fine cuisine. Food is typical elven fare: fresh countless varieties of fruits, vegetables, often honey-soaked, and wine and meads. Sweet bread, dates, and fish are also well represented. Music and performance is abundant: any bard worth his salt performs for some time in the magnificent city.

The city is governed by the Countess, advised by the Council of Elders. The Council is a powerful cabal of elven spellweavers. They rarely leave the White Tower, being seen only at official functions and parades. They give their life over to protecting Arborlon, and the Arborlonian elves.

The city houses temples to all of the legal religions, with the Church of Divine Beauty (Tethos) taking center stage. Each of the Guildtowers is amply represented as well. The Sword and Shield has a guild hall here, as do the Axe Bashers. The local thieve's consortium are The Players. It is unknown to what level they've infiltrated society, but they seem to be mostly harmless, preferring get-rich schemes to violent crimes. The militia is very capable, having many sword-mages on staff for investigations.

Landmarks/Places of Interest:

  • Shrine of Neravenwyn Silleastril - Devoted to the savior of Arborlon, Neravenwyn Silleastril is the arcanist who entombed Arborlon in a stasis field, protecting it from the ravages of the Three.
  • Amphitheatre of Haedhen - The oldest known center for music and theatre, the Haedhen is still used for plays and festivals today.
  • Isle of T'eor - A large island several miles offshore, the Isle of T'eor is a popular vacation spot for its unspoiled beaches and crystal blue waters. Ferries take travelers there most any day of the year.