The House of Venora

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:34 am

History

The House of Venora

"All roses wilt. What is important is that we bloom." - Cyrene Venora, Arch-Lector of the Saintivelle

Love. Beauty. Loyalty. These are all characteristics ascribed to the House of Venora, whose Holy words are Thou Shalt Not Betray, a verse of significance running back to the legendary loyalty of Cyrene to her husband, Verne Andaris. So great was the loyalty of Cyrene that - upon her final moment - she willingly drank from a cup of poison, to warn her husband of the treachery of his cabal of courtiers.

But these values were not always ascribed to the House of Venora, a House that existed long before Rynmere; a family native to the western coastline of the Kingdom of Sheor, ruling over the great lands of Marsoleine. Before, and even during the lifetime of Cyrene, the House was known as a source of haunting enigma. It was said then that the Venora were cursed with beauty and vainglory by An Galeth, a duplicitous deity of the Sheoran paganism. For this reason, the Venora of Sheor wore masques to conceal their faces, sparing the common men from their haunting beauty -- and concealing the machinations of the cunning God they so dutifully served. Their names were synonymous with deceit, seduction and guile; they spoke with the silver tongues of myth . . . siphoning fortune even from famine, escaping every obligation to surrender their lives to peril.

Perhaps - that all being so - they were seen as loyal . . . to their people, who were wealthy and civilized despite the fate of other lands, and so remained even through the fall of Sheor, and the toils of Rynmere. Perhaps that, more than any action by Cyrene, cemented the reputation of the Venora - even as deceitful as they appeared to outsiders - as the loyal stewards of prosperity to their own flock. And forever, where they have gone, beauty and culture have followed.

But to understand the history of Venora, one must know of the two great pillars of the House; the Founder, and Mother . . . separated by two gulfs of history, yet conjoined in their pragmatism and bold natures. These two individuals were Antonaris, and Cyrene.

Antonaris was the true founder of Venora, before the Great Restoration, and the beginning of aged history. It is estimated that he was born around four hundred years before the beginning of the first Arc, a steward of the fledgling Kingdom of Sheor,. In youth, the man was an inspirer, a cultural leader of his time. He spoke of art, and meaning, and all manner of beautiful things; he spoke of the great burdens of the human soul, and the longing of the heart. He spoke of love, and community, and purpose. And he spoke of pleasure, and liberation, and of the wisdom of the debauched. Loved by the common man, and feared by the cultural elite, Antonaris was subject to vast scrutiny.

Throughout his life, he was continuously pulled into tribunes, and judged by the arbiters of Sheoran truth. He was declared a great deceiver, a mouthpiece to An Galeth, and forced to wear a masque as a symbol of shame. But he built his House around this mythos, and made the masque his symbol; he strode through the lands of Marsoleine in the Summer, wearing naught but that masque, speaking all of the same shades. So enthralled were the people of the land, that they declared him their King 373 Arcs Before the Oath. He settled for the region, swearing his fealty to the King of Luthreign, and taking his sister as a wife.

It was from Antonaris that songs of love, and inquiry and beauty . . . all truly began for the men and women of Sheor. It is from his legacy that fashion and art took to the forefront of the gregarious, decadent people of Marsoleine, who benefited from his centralization and reforms. Yet there was to be one further great leader of Venora, a woman who would let live the ideals of that man through the calamities of the ages; Cyrene Venora.

The Witch, born Arc 152. One of the greatest mages in Sheoran history -- an Empath, Abrogant, and Transmuter. The woman who would perform the Final Treachery, the betrayal of the last King of the House of Luther, massacring his family and all loyal vassals amidst a night of triumph and vows. A secret that few in the world know, though some daringly speculate.

Cyrene brought Venora into the fold of Rynmere, helping the people of Marsoleine to find refuge within the summer-like lands of the southern coast, in a valley filled with flowers. It is from Cyrene that the symbology of the Rose begun, as she adorned her dresses with the crimson flowers, and spoke of them as a symbol of love. Her adoration for the rose was well known, and many stories were borne of her husband's devotion; Verne's garden of roses, where only she was allowed to roam. His bouquets, delivered from the maw of a Jacadon. Perhaps as a result of Verne's love of Cyrene, House Venora was the first of all noble Houses to be ordained, in Arc 178.

But what she was known for, was more than simply being beautiful, or a powerful mage. Cyrene was a spymaster of incomparable skill. She held spies in every court, knew the whispers of mothers to the children in their hovels . . . she could recite poetry yet unreleased, and find treasures lost to the ages. She knew all, and from this knowledge acquired the imagery of almost omniscience. She was revered, and feared, and considered the greatest asset to the Crown. She was an enforcer of the King's virtues, a propagator of values and cultural norms, a determinant of what truly was in good manners and good faith.

And that is where Cyrene's true significance begins, and never afterwards ended. She made the culture of Venora, the culture of Rynmere. The standard, and the excellence; the thing to aspire to. Venora's fashion would always be worn - or its absence would be a source of shame. Their art would be the inspiration for all, and their sculptors would be sought after recklessly by patrons. Their food would invoke a reverence not compelled by taste alone. In her own way, the Witch of Marsoleine founded a cult of culture that would last for centuries, unchallenged and unabated. And that is why, even unto this moment, Cyrene's prophecy failed - the Rose of Venora never wilted, and possibly, never will.

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:43 am

House Venora

Members of the garden region, the Venora line produces some of the most beautiful people in all of Rynmere. Known for their striking looks and graceful exchanges, House Venora is famous for its beauty, musical and artistic talents, and skills in persuasion.

Key:
♚ = King
♛ = Queen
♔ = Duke/Duchess
☗ = Count/Countess
✤ = Baron/Baroness

Capital:
Sabaissant

Counties:
The Lilac
The Eclipse
The Promenade
Baronies:
Novilane
Azmarine
Bellesoir

♔ Willow Venora (50, Duchess of Venora, human female)
m. Kaleb Venora (nee Fate, 51, Duke of Venora, human male)
☗ Alistair Venora (27, human male)
✤ Zvezdana Venora (24, human female) Deceased
☗ Andráska Venora (first in line, 22, human male)
✤ Kalani Venora (49, human female)
m. Manu Venora (nee Burhan, 53, biqaj male)
- Oliver Venora NPCed (30, mixed blood male)
- ________ Venora (mixed blood)
- Darcyanna Venora NPCed (22, mixed blood female)
- Pythera Venora (Valkyr) (21, mixed blood female)
☗ Noah Venora (47, human male)
m. Shannon Venora (nee Meadow, 54, human female)
- Tristan Venora (21, human male)
- ________ Venora (human)
- ________ Venora (human)
- ________ Venora (human)
- Theodore Venora (17, human male) Deceased

Venora's Relations

Within Kingdom affairs, the Venora tend to maintain positive relations with other Duchies and Great Houses. It is said that at least a quarter of the food in the Kingdom is drawn from Venora's fields, and so positive relations with the house can be seen as quite the necessity, especially in times of war, strife and famine. To begin with individual houses, it is said that for a long time since the formation of the Houses, there has been tensions with House Krome. It makes sense that such a practical and artistically deprived house would find themselves in tense relations with a family that values beauty and grace above all other things, and as a result, the Lords of the two Houses have been exceptionally distant since the time of the first Kings.

Most houses are neutral to Venora, or merely cordial. While many nobles from Warrick to Andaris adore the Duchy's wines, songs, painters and parties, the common men of Rynmere often find Venorans to be prissy and posh. Their reputation is thus as a Duchy of overly-sensitive artistic types with little grasp on the hardships of the world, especially as starvation is something you will rarely find in a land filled with lush and ripe fields.

Burhan and Venora have been historically cordial, if not quite friendly. It would make sense that the lavish party throwers would always have room at their tables for the Kingdom's most skilled musicians and artists, that both families would enjoy one another's refined stories, and often is a happy couple made from a Burhan and Venora betrothal. They have maintained positive trade relations for as long as many can remember, and often Burhan merchants are involved in the sale of tens of thousands of bushels of Venoran crops.

Venora and Andaris have always been greatly close, as well. They have a longstanding alliance that has endured the test of time. House Andaris has power in the Capital that Venora has always sought after, as the family has had a long standing aspiration of royalty, even if merely as the spouse of a reigning Andaris King. Furthermore, Andaris has possessed many great generals now and in the past, fit well to lead the always swelling manpower of the fertile region of Venora. The two of them have had a military, social, political and trade alliance for as long as any living man can recall, and while bumps in their relations do sometimes occur, friendship between the two remains both important and necessary.

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:45 am

Realm

Summation of Territories

Sabaissant - Ducal Capital
Sabaissant is the Capital of Venora, crowned by the Rubicund Court, the marvelous ivory castle overlooking the city. The Court hosts nearly all of the Venora and all of their courtiers, and the most intrigue-laced court politics in all of the Northern Realms. The city is exceptional, beautiful and highly gentrified, with the populous of Sabaissant among the wealthiest in the entire world on average. It hosts legendary painters, poets, singers, playwrights, fashion and interior designers, and a whole slew of other wealthy enterprises quite particular to the Duchy of Venora. The city lays beside a lake, and at the foot of a mountain, offering a defensible position. Most of the members of House Venora live in Sabaissant in the Rubicund Castle, only to leave in order to administer a Barony, if they inherit.

Novilane - East End, Barony
The Barony of Novilane, located along Cyrene Bay and Venora's southern coast, is a prosperous and wealthy barony typically inherited by the heir of the ducal throne of Venora. The barony is renowned for its strong presence on the Cyrene Bay trade node, receiving a great deal of shipments and tariff gold for items and luxuries heading westward, towards the rest of Venora, Burhan or Warrick.

Due to its strong position in foreign and internal trade, the city of Oxentide (the barony's capital) has since developed into a booming hub of industry, employing large swaths of commoners in textiles, ceramics, glassworking, the sale of luxury goods, and the production of a great sum of goods assembled in Venora and even neighboring Duchies. Oxentide is renowned for its role as an urban center, with many of the surrounding villages of Novilane acting as its suburbs. As a result, Novilane's population is almost entirely focused around or within Oxentide, with much of the outer areas managed only by camps of laborers or farmers.

Bellesoir - West End, Barony
Bellesoir is nestled prettily amongst sweeping fields of flowers and crops that colored the landscape in a patchwork quilt of bounty, stretching around the medium barony in an inviting beautiful feast for the eyes. The township itself is comprised of quaint houses with whitewash walls and pointed thatched rooted, each property dressed with flowers and gardens of their own. Due to this fare, the township hangs with the aroma of flora rich and sweet.

Although Bellesoir is small, it is a place of bustling tourism due to its beauty. People often visit for a stay, enjoying the beauty and partaking in the feasts the farming community provide. Vintage wines, aged cheeses and fine cured meats are all main staples in any of the dining establishments. This tourism keeps the townsfolk both well employed and the streets spotlessly clean.

Azmarine - South End, Barony
Azmarine, unlike the other cities in Venora, runs at a much slower pace than that of its surrounding areas. It is considered a hub of culture and artistic endeavors and the majority see this place as the center of luxury and paradise. With white stone structures overlooking the soothing coast, this city boasts of low crime rates and easy going citizens. With the second largest population of Biqaj, the ports are filled with a variety of cultures and competitions, the most notable being that of excellent ship making.

Citizens of Azmarine take great pride in the appearance of their city, and the streets are some of the cleanest in all of Rynmere. Given the proximity to water sources, sewers and pipes have been constructed to allow running water, and the design of unique architecture gives natural ventilation in both homes and businesses alike.

Counties

Counties are positions offered to nobles of exemplary service to their Houses, and it is not an inherited title, but granted, with the Duke or Duchess retaining the position for themselves until offered to another. These positions are not commonly offered, serving as stations of incredible might; Counts and Countesses will typically rule over hundreds of thousands of people, or even millions in the case of the more populous Duchies, such as Venora, Warrick and Andaris. There are typically three Counties per Duchy, and they comprise of many Baronies. One Barony - which the Count or Countess rules directly - serves as the seat of the County, and the reigning Count will rule from within that locality, directly. Ducal Capitals are not within the border of the Counties, and serve as a sole untouched center for the Duke or Duchess' rule.

Counts and Countesses are expected to be utterly loyal to the Duke and/or Duchess. It is the Counts and Countesses that are treated as the Duke's generals and advisers during times of conflict, and they are expected to provide a suitably large supply of soldiers to the ducal army, including their personal retinues. Venora's Counties will be listed here.

The Eclipse - The Northern and Eastern County
Named after a supposed meteorological effect that causes the Duchy to enter a state of twilight at seemingly random times throughout the day, the Eclipse is the industrial heart of Venora, and is seated in Novilane, in the city of Oxentide. As the most populous region of the Garden Duchy, the Eclipse is well known for its highly urban atmosphere, a place typically associated with city life and dense living arrangements, and all the pros and cons that come with. The County acts as the border between Venora and Andaris, and in many ways, Venora and the remainder of the world; with a strong foothold in international trade through Cyrene Bay, the Eclipse is the first stop for many travelers and traders from around Idalos. It's also among the most diverse regions of Rynmere, with a higher number of Sev'ryn, Qi'ora, Aukari, Naerikk, Eidisi, Lotharro and Mer than the vast majority of other regions.

There are few counties in Rynmere with a larger navy than the Eclipse, and one in such professional condition. As a result of this, the County truly dominates trade particularly on the western end of the country, with ships sailing to port even in other Counties to rack up wealth and proxy tariffs from trade. The Eclipse is known for its incredible competitiveness in control over trade, often coming into diplomatic conflicts with Astedia for this reason. In terms of sheer production of wealth, it is the wealthiest region in Venora, though it is not followed far after by the other two sections of the ducality.

The Lilac - The Western County
The Lilac is known as the heart of inland beauty for Venora, and - more importantly - the heart of wine for what may well be the whole of Idalos. There is more wine produced in the Lilac than in the rest of Rynmere combined, by a wide margin, and enough famous wines are exported from the Lilac so as to fund much of Venora's institutions in and of themselves. There are vineyards everywhere in the Lilac, alongside fields of flowers, and beautiful antique homes overrun with red and green ivy. The Lilac's beauty is often known as almost subterranean, or secretive, for few expect a land of farmers and vintners to carry such timeless elegance. The people of the Lilac are known to be communal and kind, and as the County has been seated in Bellesoir for some time, the tradition of heralding beauty within the region has not diminished - and likely never will.

The Promenade - The Southern County
The Promenade is a unique County, with several esteemed and internationally renowned locations that have all served as the County seat in arcs past. Azmarine, the current seat, is known for subtropical beauty and crystal blue waters... and is the current leading locale for tourism into Rynmere. Lamonte, a town known to the natives of Venora as a place of freelance artists, musicians, poets and young ones looking to experience a night of coastal pleasures... places like these line the long coastline of the Promenade, which occupies the vast majority of Venora's coast. For this reason, the Promenade is known to have among the most ideal climates in the Kingdom, with warm and sunny weather for most of the arc, save for the extremes of Zi'da and Cylus. The people of the Promenade are known to be many things, and can often instantly be recognized; they're tan, with unkempt hair, exceptional physiques and a warm smile, but often with pretension seeped into their fun-loving demeanor.

Still, the Promenade and its people are often referred to as the two most beautiful things in the Kingdom, a title that the County has battled with the Lilac for throughout the ages. It certainly can't be denied that the Promenade has the best beaches in the Kingdom, at least - and among the best in the entire world. In terms of resources, the Promenade is very wealthy, with a massive artistic bloc, filled with coveted international artists and Venoran natives who have made their home there and will never live. It's also the go-to place for tourism in the Kingdom, and altogether is very well adjusted within the confines of the Duchy, rivaling the Lilac and the Eclipse suitably well in wealth, influence and prosperity.

More to come via player submissions.

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:46 am

Significance

The Obligations of the Rose

Responsibilities and Duties
Aside from the standard responsibilities of any ducal family, the Venora are expected to administer several cultural events throughout the arc, as well as organizing charitable enterprises to feed and house the poor of their own Duchies, and even others. Due to the egregious wealth of the Venora and many of their vassals, the Duchy tends to invest into other poorer realms, but often with motivations behind their money. Additionally, though not necessarily a responsibility, it is customary for the Venora to provide information to the Houses Warrick and Andaris, as Cyrene often did. This in turn creates funding and manpower for the Saintivelle, the elite inquisitors of culture and thought.

Resources
The Duchy - Obviously, the Venora rule the Duchy almost absolutely. Though the King may levy his weight into the realm, doing so is nearly unprecedented, and highly unpopular with the Dukes. As such, the ducal family make nearly all decisions within the realm, and can decide the fate of nearly all of their inhabitants at will. They can recruit their own personal levies and control their own trade and defense fleet, mostly stationed along the waters of Cyrene Bay. As Venora is very populous and wealthy, the family - on paper - is one of the most well-placed Houses for continued longevity, though they must always seek to keep Andaris and Warrick loyal, as Venora lies the vulnerable door between the two somewhat more militarily powerful lands.

The Saintivelle - Though not much is known of the group, the Saintivelle were founded by Cyrene Venora on Arc 191. Since then, they have been Rynmere's most elite organization of spies, reporting directly to the Duke of the Rubicund Court. Aside from the typical duties of a network of intelligence operatives, they ensure the cultural integrity of Rynmere, and quickly strike down viewpoints that threaten the social fabric. Additionally, Saintivelle are often sent to foreign realms to ensure their intentions, as well as attempting to deter them from making any movements against the Northern Kingdom. However, it appears nearly impossible to join the Saintivelle, and to this day there is little written of them in history.

The Bay - With equal access between Venora and Andaris to Cyrene Bay, the Venora gain similar amounts of wealth from trade, exporting their highly sought after luxuries to the upper echelon of other realms. These goods include perfumes, silks and satins, fine wines, sculptures and other pieces of art, sonnets and poetry . . . books of music, jewelry and other accessories, and more. The Bay brings an immeasurable amount of wealth to the Venora, and has helped to spread their enthralling reputation throughout Idalos. Nearly every bar of any repute on Idalos has Venora Red stocked, and so each time one takes a seat and prepares their cup, they are reminded of the giant of Northern culture.

Religious Significance
As one of the Sacred Seven, a living and spectral ancestor of Rynmere, there is much mystery behind the woman in death - perhaps even more than when she lived. The Lady speaks to those who would hear her whispers, and heed her words . . . and she does not speak often. When she does, it is Cyrene - most often - who may make warnings to the ears of those she seeks out. Always the informant, she seeks preemptively to protect her family and followers, the wind carrying echoes of her voice across the land. It is said that the leader of the Faith speaks to her often; that she warns them most of all. Of the challenge of hubris - of the defiance of tradition.

A Priestess in the past, who Cyrene spoke to frequently, was said to have gone mad . . . merely muttering Cyrene's words over and over, for arcs on end, until her tongue was removed to spare those around her. Cyrene is a haunting vestige of the past, and though the people of Rynmere admire her almost maternal instinct over the Kingdom, she is equally feared as an icon of relentless arcane power - and a desire to control outcomes around her at all costs. She is said to lay with all in their sleep, offering them her warmth and embrace, a touch of beauty . . . but equally observing them in the quiet, in the dark, ensuring that each breath in the night does not tell of treachery and rot.

Familial Artefact
The Duke or Duchess of Venora wears the Crown of Thorns upon their head, given to Cyrene by Warren Gawyne and held closely to the family for centuries after. The crown lays peacefully around the skull of a true-blooded Venora, no matter who may wear it, but will immediately puncture through and lobotomize the head of any with no considerable lineage. In this way, it is both a symbol of prestige and an assurance to the people that the wielder of the Crown is a rightful Venora, with no scandal or secrecy to be discovered.

The true effect of the crown is that it may grow - as if sprung from nothing - a similarly peaceful bed of thorns around the pectorals or breasts of the Venora's followers, any individual who is - at least initially - willing to trust the Lord utterly. Offering this growth of dormant thorns is the ultimate test of loyalty for a Venora retinue, and to deny the offer can lead to demotion, shame and exclusion from the ranks of military. If one who carries the thorns is ever to betray their Lord willingly, including by desertion, the thorns will instantly plunge through their chest and rip through their heart. The Venora virtue of loyalty is absolute, and demonstrates itself in the world, at the behest of this crown. For this reason, the Venora army - though typically smaller comparatively to Warrick and Andaris - has always been loyal, and elite. Unwavering -- for no death is more certain than the one who flees, or takes sword opportunistically against their Lord.

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:48 am

Leadership

The Duke(ssa) of the Rubicund Court

The current reigning authority of House Venora is Duchess Ebony, alongside her husband Karl Venora (nee Warrick). Ebony, born the 3rd of Cylus, Arc 647, was given leadership of Venora at the age of thirty when her brother - Wolsingham - was publicly assassinated at a Knight's tournament. Originally residing in the estate of her husband, Karl Warrick, Ebony was granted the title of Duchess regnant. Previously, the woman had been living merely as an ornament of her House; married away to a Warrick Baron, she was offered little prominence in her home Duchy. As a result, there was a considerable amount of talk in the Rubicund Court of her succession, and how in which it may have been prevented.

Ebony stepped into the seat of the Duchess beneath a great conspiracy by Merchants and Lesser Nobles, seeking to ensure the weakness of the ruling family. Her brother's assassination was a testimony to that; he was a powerful man who did not kneel to the will of his subjects. To that end, he was removed.

In the arcs after Ebony's succession, her brother's assassination acted as her shroud. To act and do as if Venora were in a state of emergency, its very integrity under question. Wolsingham had been well-loved, and so the populace angrily sought his murderers. Ebony played to this, and organized a round of public executions, culling each member of the conspiracy when the faintest pieces of evidence came to light. Policies were instituted, reducing the power of Venora's vassals, and returning much of their original hegemonic integrity to their own court. The coffers of Sabaissant grew, and as they did, Ebony monopolized her position further.

The woman restored Venora - almost a symbolic House at the point of her mother's passing - to that of a great state, unquestioned by the peasantry and unrivaled by any coalition. And since then, until now, she has reigned.

Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:55 am

High Fashion in Venora

The Crown of Lamonte

Women's Aristocratic Fashion
The fashion of women in Venora is exceptionally diverse and highly sophisticated. Satin is of course unrivaled in need for any noble lady to wear, and it goes beyond merely the fabric and the expertise - dresses are practically that of art collages, with flowery ornaments, ribbons and other such things lining the bottom to the middle of the dress. Women often wear shawls or thin overcoats made of animal fur above their dresses, as this shows a level of sophistication and wealth. Adornments and accessories are almost always that of a flowery design, with many of the aristocratic houses of Venora being represented by a different flower: Venora the Rose, Graysons the Lilacs, Desmond the Tulip, Furdan the Primrose, Guiliani the Dahlia, so on and so forth. These flowers - whichever they are - will often be worn in the form of elaborate jewelry for women.

For women of lesser noble families, such as those with no relatives of the rank of Count, singular or small arrays of flowers are to be worn in the hair of the women, a fashionable design that compliments their hairstyle as well as promoting the Venoran ideals of growth, devotion, beauty and elegance. The flower in the woman's hair that represents their noble house is to be worn up until they are married, at which point they will often instead wear this flower as an icon in their jewelry and replace the flower decorating their hair with that of their husband's noble house symbol, even if this means wearing a miniature boat in her hair. If a woman is to marry a lowborn man, she discards the flower decorating her hair entirely, displaying that she is disgraced. It is fashion, beauty and artistry that dominates the social hierarchy of Venora. As such, to be stripped of the beauty of one's adornments is to be relegated to the lower brackets of the social and political hierarchy. These pressures exist to ensure that men and women of high birth marry one another, rather than commoners.

Men's Aristocratic Fashion
Men's fashion in Venora is often dominated by colorful and exceptionally high quality brocade vests, as well as luxuriously designed satin trousers and a variety of accessories that display his unique aspects. While men in Venora do not wear quite as much fancy attire as women, their brocade vests and satin trousers, as well as the silk clothing they wear as their undershirt are expected to be of impeccable style, quality and elegance. Before marriage, the color of their vest is often that of their house's flower - thus the Venora men will often wear red to public occasions, Graysons a sort of light indigo, Desmonds a golden hue, so on and so forth. The colors worn by Venoran men are thus often bright and noticeable when they are young, displaying that they are young and ready for marriage so that mothers and fathers may watch their behaviors and see if they are suitable for their young daughters. When they become married, they often tend to wear darker colors - a shadowy purple, dark blues, black, to display that they are unavailable.

A man will often wear several rings - one displaying his marriage (often a gem styled into that of his wife's noble house), one displaying his talent (a ring cut to appear as a paintbrush for example), one displaying his chosen Venoran virtue (beauty, elegance, devotion, growth, nobility) in a symbol that the man will often draw himself before bringing it to a jeweler, and one signet ring that displays his family's crest, which is very often of course a flower.

The patriarchs of noble families tend to wear low collars that reveal the beginnings of their pectorals and a pendant running down them displaying their crest. The men of House Venora are expected to be attractive and presentable and even after marriage they will almost always wear their red brocade vests, perhaps complimented by the Crown of Lamonte, for any man or woman married to the reigning Duchess or Duke.

Outside of the Duchy
As Venora is the land of beauty, elegance and art, their fashion often inspires the clothing industry of nobles and middle-class citizens across Rynmere. Men and women across the Kingdom often advise their tailors and designers to style their vests and dresses similarly to that of a Venoran outfit, though many outfitters in Rynmere are incapable of the artistry required of one of their trade working in the duchy of luxury. As such, Venoran tailors are in exceptionally high demand and are often contracted to work for noble families outside of their home duchy, which is a profitable outcome for the duchy itself as they often bring home the money they gained from places such as Andaris, Warrick, Burhan and Gawyne.

Credit: Alistair

Tue Nov 13, 2018 10:37 pm

Sabaissant

Sabaissant, crowned by the Rubicund Court, is the capital seat of the Duchy of Venora and ruled by the Great House of Venora. It is located in the central-west region of the Duchy, and is surrounded by noble estates outside of the city walls, many with their own vineyards. This region is one of the least agricultural of the Duchy, as the wealthy denizens - including the nobility - forbid the smell of fertilizer and other such things from pervading their environment. This is not a complaint one would find stark within the community. In fact, one would say that the expectations within the city are exceptionally high; the people are highly critical and exceedingly protective of their high standards. The attire of those living in the city is expected to be of high quality, there are virtually no homes available for the lower class, and those without contribution to the Duchy are expected to live in some other town, perhaps as a farmer or some other drab thing.

The citizenry of Venora is populous, interestingly, considering the average wealth of the population. A good reason for this is that Venora is considered to be the most beautiful and fair-weathered of the regions of Rynmere, and the village especially so - it sits alongside a northern mountain, with tradewinds from the south thus rebounding and washing over the city for an extended period of time, as well as a placement on the axis of Idalos that offers naturally pleasant summers (free from humidity) and winters that are at least moderate by nature. In terms of outdoor activities, there is a lake surrounding the city, leading into a river that runs all the way through the coast. The conditions of the city are essentially exquisite, and so greatly sought after. Much of Venora's capital is thus filled with wealthy businessmen and their families from all over Rynmere, as well as elderly who have surrendered their life savings to live in a suitable, warm environment in their old age. More, the most successful artists, poets and musicians from all over the world often travel to Venora and never wish to leave; it is a city of constant artistic excellence, as if embroiled in a never-ending renaissance. There are festivals thrown often, ones that display the talents of the most renowned artists in all of Rynmere and even beyond.

The culture of entertainment is one that also finds a home in Venora. While plays exist all over the Kingdom, there are many bands of theatrical performers native to Venora, and their greatest performances often take place in the auditorium near the palace. In fact, many a show can be found there, from a theatrical play to an opera, a display of new artistry, or even an impassioned political speech.

The palace, looming over the city, is home to the House of Venora and their extended family, including the many cadet branches that rule over counties, baronies and other realms within the Duchy. It is the center of political intrigue in the Duchy, and thus was built large so as to properly host the community of aristocrats within the region. The main castle hosts the direct family of Duchess Ebony and the woman who will soon replace her, Willow Venora. It is a home for the future rulers of the region, though from the primary branch of successors only Lord Alistair lives here primarily, with Zvezdana and Andraska basing their careers in Andaris.

In terms of industry, the capital thrives off of a variety of unique businesses. Firstly, there is the production business, one in which fancy textiles, silks and other materials are used in the creation of fine, adorned attire. Many of the noblemen in Rynmere buy their brocade doublets, hose and other such pieces of clothing from Venora's tailors, while a great deal of noblewomen adore the regal and beautiful dresses sewn by their seamstresses. The clothing industry is exceptionally developed in Venora, standing to be one of the largest and most high profit enterprises in the area. Further, there is art, tapestries, sculptures, vases and other such luxury goods; these as a whole make up a great deal of the capital's income, with patrons buying exquisite art for unbelievable amounts of gold nel at one of the city's state-sanctioned auction houses. Sculptures and other similar products are sold at a high value as well, with legendary names behind the sculptures; Giulano Farnese, Henry Servano, Leighley Kletos, Merandara Seiande. There is a great deal of fame and prestige found in the city, contributing to its vast wealth.

The vineyards operated by the noble estates also spell income for the city, as some very fine vintages are produced in the fields outside of the village. The rich soil in the region reserved solely for these vineyards, and so a great quantity of product goes into the hands of wealthy winemakers and their employees or slaves. Slaves are, in direct connection with the wealth of the city's denizens, a large percentage of the population though not the majority. They handle the dirty work of the city, ensuring it is kept clean and maintained for the pleasure of their masters and mistresses. Better a well-trained and diligent slave operate the unfortunate labor of the city, a noble would say, than a man of low birth and the freedom to tarnish his surroundings as he chooses. There is an exceptional emphasis on class in Venora, and those apart from higher-class society are welcomed for short periods for the sake of business, but never to stay in permanent residence. The gentrification of the city is consistent, and intolerance of the poor is required.

Credit: Alistair

Tue Nov 13, 2018 10:38 pm

Barony of Novilane

Map of Oxentide

Location: Venora, Rynmere
Population: Very High
Imports: Lumber, Paper and Books, Military Armaments, Livestock
Exports: Silks and Textiles, Luxury Goods (Perfumes, Fine Tailoring, Furniture, etc), Wine, Glassworks, Manufactured Goods, Minerals and Metals
Leader: Baron Alistair of House Venora
Capital: Oxentide
Villages: High density around Oxentide, almost all sprawled around the barony's capital, creating an urban atmosphere. However, a low density of villages outside of the northern end of the barony.

The Barony of Novilane, located along Cyrene Bay and Venora's southern coast, is a prosperous and wealthy barony typically inherited by the heir of the ducal throne of Venora. The barony is renowned for its strong presence on the Cyrene Bay trade node, receiving a great deal of shipments and tariff gold for items and luxuries heading westward, towards the rest of Venora, Burhan or Warrick. Due to its strong position in foreign and internal trade, the city of Oxentide (the barony's capital) has since developed into a booming hub of industry, employing large swaths of commoners in textiles, ceramics, glassworking, the sale of luxury goods, and the production of a great sum of goods assembled in Venora and even neighboring Duchies. Oxentide is renowned for its role as an urban center, with many of the surrounding villages of Novilane acting as its suburbs. As a result, Novilane's population is almost entirely focused around or within Oxentide, with much of the outer areas managed only by camps of laborers or farmers.

While most of Venora's lands typically ply their trade in music and art, Novilane and particularly Oxentide are unique in their industrial and manufacturing focus. Due to the vast amount of jobs available in the holding of Oxentide, it is the most populous holding in Venora, actually followed after by Sabaissant due to the latter city's emphasis on privacy and wealthy hegemony.

The realms outside of Oxentide are mostly rural or suburban, with a focus on mining and winemaking on the interior, and agriculture and fishing along the coast. While most of the realm of Novilane is fairly flat, the borders are dominated by mountains, save for several trade routes with long roads leading towards Andaris, Sabaissant, Drakengard, and other large settlements within the Kingdom of Rynmere.

Oxentide

Oxentide, the seat of the baron, is one of the most industrialized cities in Rynmere. A place of innovation, many great inventions across Rynmere's history have been credited as being birthed and funded within this holding, particularly within the field of engineering. The economy of Oxentide has been one of continual growth for the past 86 arcs, when a previous Baron of the land began to invite academics from Viden, Ne'haer, Nashaki, Etzos, Hiladrith and other places across the world of Idalos to combine their knowledge.

As such, Oxentide is one of an incredibly diverse demographic, with a larger percentage of biqaj and other non-human races than any other area in Venora. Notably, there is a strong presence of Qi'ora in the town, drawn by the industry of glassblowing and masonry that has presented itself in the western half of Oxentide. Along the coast, the majority of the population is of mixed biqaj ancestry, where naval, wind and water-based technology are constantly being approached, researched, and re-examined.

Downsides

While Oxentide is a highly developed and innovative industrial center, there are a great deal of downsides that come with its business practices, its risky endeavors, and its development of energy and utilization of coal and other substances. For one, the town's crime rate is considerably higher than in the upper-class cities that tend to litter Venora. Most of the crime differences lay in robberies, petty theft and burglary, but vandalism and other crimes are considered an issue within the town. Drugs and their influence are always a challenge within the barony considering foreign trade and smuggling. The homicide rate is significantly higher than in Sabaissant, due to the cultural and racial tensions that exist between the unique groups inhabiting districts of the realm.

Furthermore, the lifespan of your average worker in Oxentide is notably lower than those in Venora's upper class cities, due to lung issues relating to the usage of smelting, coal and untested substances in order to achieve higher efficiency in the industrial centers. As a result, while Oxentide is a large money earner, it is also a place of significant risk compared to the safe and insulated centers of the rest of urban Venora.

Finally, Oxentide is constantly dealing with competitive trade opposition from Astedia as a result of their fairly equal share of the Cyrene Bay trade node. While the Duchy does not deal with as much privateering as Astedia at the far end of the bay, they struggle with issues of tariffs and foreign merchants constantly, and their economy can often fluctuate as a result of these disputes.

Setting Sun Estate

The Setting Sun Estate, seat of the Baron of Novilane, is named for its historical significance. Near the end of Nora, First Queen of Rynmere's life, the Setting Sun Estate was built as a place of retirement for her to dwell within as her children succeeded the Duchies of Andaris and Venora. The name signified, then, the setting of Nora's story upon the land - the end of her life, a place for her to die. Since then, it has served as a place of rulership for the firstborn child of the reigning Venora Duke, expanded upon and renovated consistently as both a historical site and a place of nigh-Sacred significance.

The Setting Sun Estate, while not as grand as the Sabaissant du Cristel, remains near to the people of Oxentide, overlooking the town from atop a rocky hill, farmland and endless plains at its back. It is from this estate that the Baron of Novilane leads, with a great deal of jobs provided within the estate itself, lumber mills and orchards a satellite around the building, many workers living within the manor doubly as servants and interns for Oxentide's great industries.

Note: Much of the estate, once known as the Setting Sun Palace, is now owned by Zaran Ki'zola's shipping and porting company. As a result, Alistair only holds a portion of the manor.

Location NPCs

Moderator's Note: Players are free to control NPCs in this location without moderation. However, keep in mind that these are NPCs involved in major events / plots and therefore they can only be used in a 'surface' manner. If in doubt, please check with a Ryn mod.

Kamden Bradford

Race: Human-Biqaj (Mixed Blood)
Age: 33
Title: Chancellor of the Barony of Novilane
Skills: Politics: 70, Etiquette: 60, Leadership: 45, Rhetoric: 40, Negotiation: 35

Kamden Bradford, Chancellor of the Barony of Novilane, serves as the direct advisor and assistant to the reigning baron. Previously serving beneath Willow Venora, he has essentially acted as interim leader within the Barony due to the former Baroness' dilettante approach to her role. As such, Kamden is highly well connected within Oxentide, and greater Novilane, with a firm grasp on the political and business landscape within the barony.

Currently, Kamden Bradford acts doubly as the Dean of the Oxentide Development Committee, seeking ways to expand upon the Barony's infrastructure and turn it into one of the greatest realms in Northern Idalos. His goal, he has always said, has been to witness Oxentide rival Andaris in all ways but crime committed per capita.

The man is quite admired by the business owners of the holding, though he holds a fairly ambivalent reputation among the common citizenry. Few notice his workings, and instead direct their ire mostly towards the former Baroness Willow, stating her irresponsibility as their grievance.

Taya Barrett

Race: Human
Age: 31
Title: Marshal of the Barony of Novilane
Skills: Blades: 70, Leadership: 60, Tactics: 55, Intimidation: 45, Mount: 30

Taya Barrett, born in the Eternal Empire, is a woman of incredible mystery. Even among the nobles there lies speculation, particularly regarding her inner thoughts, and the depth of her loyalty. She immigrated to Rynmere as a young teenager, citing her interest in the Iron Hand as a ladder on which she sought to climb. However, as she progressed through the Moseke Knights of Venora, the woman decided that her desires fell elsewhere - she would rather be a leader than an eternal follower, and so she became the Marshal of Novilane, leading the grand retinue and military force under the charge of Novilane's Baron.

In her time in said position, she has done incredibly well, organizing the retinue and training them to exceptional quality. She has also taken direct part in determining the upper echelon of the guard, a task she is proud of accomplishing, considering the decline of crime since replacing the decadent commissioner chosen by the former Baroness, Willow.

The Marshal allegedly holds the mark of Krorros, though she has never stated it, and refuses to acknowledge such questions. As in all things, she is very reserved in regards to her faith.

Zaran Ki'zola

Race: Biqaj
Age: 35
Title: Admiral of the Barony of Novilane
Skills: Shipbuilding: 80, Navigation: 65, Carpentry: 55, Business Management: 50

Zaran Ki'zola, known internationally as "Zaran of Oxentide", is a well-renowned shipbuilder and developer of modern sail technologies, based in Oxentide, Novilane. Due to his exceptional skill in the craft, the position of Admiral of Novilane was created specifically for him, never granted to anyone before him or after. Zaran operates a shipbuilding dock on the eastern corner of the coastal port known as "Montefrey," where a great deal of trade ships and navigational vessels are developed and built with the intention to expand the technology of Venora's navy. While the navy developed by Zaran still remains quickly behind Burhan, the man has helped to rapidly expand the Duchy's naval force, largely focused in the barony of Novilane.

Before becoming a famous naval thinker in Novilane, Zaran spent most of his youth in Ne'haer's nearby city of Bayward. Ironically among most of the biqaj in Oxentide, Zaran strongly supports slavery, and has a large quantity of slaves who operate the woodwork required to build his naval constructs. This is likely due to Bayward's own open advocacy for slavery, with Zaran true to their ideology and loyal to Rynmere's current laws and policies.

Otherwise, he is a man of unique tastes, allegedly spending a great deal of his nels investing into businesses many would consider taboo, such as brothels, drug dens, distilleries and gambling houses. Regardless of his penchant for slavery and his obsession with the nigh-illegal, the man is considered to be a kind and honest gentleman, fond of many at Novilane's court.

Lena Chicasaw

Race: Human-Sev'ryn (Mixed Blood)
Age: 26
Title: Treasurer of the Barony of Novilane
Skills: Mathematics: 65, Business Management: 55, Negotiation: 45, Logistics: 45, Construction: 40

Lena Chicasaw, Treasurer of Novilane, has been a ruling authority in the Barony of Novilane for the past seven years. Given her position largely due to nepotism, her father was quite scandalously known in several corners of the Duchy as the hidden lover of Baroness Willow of House Venora. There are some among Novilane's elite circle who claim she is the lovechild of the two, largely due to a "miscarriage" had by Willow around the time of Lena's birth. However, this is vehemently denied by both Willow and Lena.

Though her position was given as a show of favor, the Treasurer has proven since her employment that she is an excellent treasurer, capable of budgeting the Barony to a surplus even with the poor spending habits of the former Baroness, Willow. She has taken part in several keen investments that have built up manufacturing businesses in Oxentide, and one of her primary interests of late - with great success - has been the creation of suburban villages directly neighboring Oxentide to host a larger population of middle to upper class citizens, creating small and large business owners to employ the large sum of Oxentide's residents.

Personality-wise, Lena is generally quiet and tends to obey authority. However, when she is passionate or knowledgeable on a topic, the woman is known to be firm, resounding and articulate. Many find her quite intimidating, though few among Novilane's council have all too strong an opinion on her. She is simply there, and has been there for some time.

Tamlen von Sien

Race: Lotharro
Age: 48
Title: Spymaster of the Barony of Novilane
Skills: Intelligence: 75, Deception: 60, Interrogation: 45, Investigation: 45, Stealth: 25

Tamlen, once a member of Uthaldria's Alsingarde - their intelligence organization - is Spymaster of Novilane, known to be one of the greatest intelligence organizers of Rynmere.

As Spymaster of Novilane, Tamlen has dealt with - for a long time - affairs dealing in the scandal of the former Baroness Willow of House Venora. From covering up romantic affairs to intimidating the victims of her arbitration into silence, the man has shown his wit and his haste in preventing a grievous and inhospitable reputation among his liege. For this reason, the von Sien has always been seen as a reactive Spymaster, watching over the actions of Oxentide's elite and ensuring House Venora always comes out ahead, regardless of the trifles and foolery of the leader he serves.

But despite this loyal and protective reputation, the advisors of the Baron have always known something else of the man - he desires more. Tamlen has sought to join the nobility from his days as a youth, previously courting the Baroness in an attempt to acquire her hand in marriage. Since the ascension of Kaleb Venora nee Fate, the two have lived as rivals, the Spymaster desperately seeking to kick down the man from his position of authority. It is for this reason that Tamlen has never left or risen from his position as Spymaster of Novilane, with the Venora Lord keeping him in a singular position, never to rise.

But Tamlen's fire burns still, and of late, he has begun to seek other ways to join the ruling elite. With the ascension of Alistair, the man has a plan to truly modernize Oxentide - form a parliamentary council in the area, with himself as the helm, the Baron presiding over in quiet, content to allow his subjects their endless prattling while Ser von Sien expands his influence throughout the Baron's realm.

Credit: Alistair

Tue Nov 13, 2018 10:42 pm

Bellesoir

Location: Venora, Rynmere
Baron/Baroness: Kalani and Manu Venora
Line of succession: Oliver Venora, Darcyanna Venora
Appeal: Beautiful floristry and gardens, closest Venora barony to Andaris
Drawback: Only medium in size, it offers little in the way of industry outside aesthetic floral pursuits.

Bellesoir is nestled prettily amongst sweeping fields of flowers and crops that colored the landscape in a patchwork quilt of bounty, stretching around the medium barony in an inviting beautiful feast for the eyes. The township itself is comprised of quaint houses with whitewash walls and pointed thatched rooted, each property dressed with flowers and gardens of their own. Due to this fare, the township hangs with the aroma of flora rich and sweet.

Although Bellesoir is small, it is a place of bustling tourism due to its beauty. People often visit for a stay, enjoying the beauty and partaking in the feasts the farming community provide. Vintage wines, aged cheeses and fine cured meats are all main staples in any of the dining establishments. This tourism keeps the townsfolk both well employed and the streets spotlessly clean - who wants to visit a filthy town?

In the aptly named Rose Street of Bellesoir, the centre of town, there are many wonderful establishments. The Sweet Scents Perfumary, which has been dubbed the finest perfumary in Venora, offers visitors the opportunity to take home the aroma of Bellesoir. Another fine place to visit if one is looking for a good drink with a nice view is The Gilded Lily bar. Small inside, the decor is dark rich polish mahogany lit with glowing ambient wall scones. Round tables that seat up to four people are scattered around, with the establishment able to hold 30 people comfortably. There is a long sweeping bar that takes up the right when you enter, and booth seating right down the back. The front of the Lily however is comprised of floor to ceiling glass doors that can be opened back to allow a spectacular view of the flower fields across the hillsides. To take advantage of this, the Gilded Lily also has alfresco seating out the front under lattice work cover that is covered in intertwined flowering creepers.

For a fine dining experience, Rose Street also houses The Rose Crown, a larger establishment than the Lily, decorated in whites and golds inside. Chandelier lighting compliments the interior and seating is varied but on average it’s four a table. The food here is of exceptional quality, and as such does cost a pretty nel, but it is worth the visit. Once every 5th trial a musician or quartet is hosted. This is an open spot for visiting musicians, they simply need to speak to Ser Anders, the manager.

Along with a couple of cheese shops and a bakery, there is also a butcher and a florist. The Tulips Keep is the main inn, a neat establishment that can rent rooms with single, queen or twin beds. They also have two kingsized suites on the top floor, and one penthouse with roof garden access.

For an experience not to be missed, anyone who visits Bellesoir should make time to stay at The Bluebell Vineyard. A small estate away from the commons, this vineyard hosts some of the best and varied wines in all Venora. Whites, reds and rosés, made with a variety of local fruit and edible flowers. Anyone who you speak to will suggest trying the Elderflower Sparkling White. The estate house doubles as a restaurant downstairs and an inn upstairs, swathed in rose bushes where ever possible.

Novtrevé

Away from the town commons settled on a slight rise is the Novtrevé estate, and like the jewel that she is, the manor itself. A stone wall building with beige hues and pointed spires, it spans wider than it does back, beautiful in its clean lines and symmetry. The long road that leads up to the carriage drop off is lined with neatly manicured lawns and thick evergreens. These trees are intertwined with glowing lanterns on many an evening event, a magical and beautiful sight.

Around the side of the buildings, one will find the rose gardens, perfectly symmetrical and planned out. Once every few arcs the family gardeners change the colors, artfully digging up and planting the new colors whilst keeping the old colored plants alive in a field specifically for the manor gardens. This arc they are wearing the Venora banner colors of magenta, dusted with pinks, purples and reds. In the centre of the rose gardens is a rectangular body of water that houses beautifully carved stone statues of elegant men and women draped so perfectly on pristine arched neck steeds.

Nestled nex to the gardens, a ways into the trees that compliment the estate, there is a quaint hedge maze, and in the center a stone gazebo dressed with creeping roses. As children, the Venora's would remember the roses being red, but over the arcs the colors have been changed to the banner pink colors.

Location NPCs

Moderator's Note: Players are free to control NPCs in this location without moderation. However, keep in mind that these are NPCs involved in major events / plots and therefore they can only be used in a 'surface' manner. If in doubt, please check with a Ryn mod.

Lennard Bayle

Race: Human
Age: 44
Title: Steward
Skills: 50 Caregiving, 40 Blades: Longsword, 45 Ranged: Longbow, 40 Logistics

Considered the head steward, Lennard attends to most of the daily upkeep of Notrerevé. He assists in all things logistical, and is often the first to greet new arrivals at the estate. A former guard for Venora, the man is dry and quiet, trained to be so by the Hand. He walks with a limp in his left leg because of an arrow he took a few arcs earlier.

Jirelle le Fleur

Race: Human
Age: 47
Title: Head Chef
Skills: Cooking 90, Logistics 40, Gardening 50, Mathematics 45, Butchering 70

One of the greatest chefs the Kingdom has ever produced, Jirelle le Fleur runs the kitchens of Notrerevé. Sharp and demanding, Jirelle is often seen hustling to accomplish all her goals, though she loves to garden and write poetry in her spare time. Often looked up to by the three children of the house as wise and stern, she is a sort of surrogate mother in Kalani's absence.

Gav'ren

Race: Sev'ryn
Age: 24
Title: Stablemaster
Skills: Animal Husbandry 65, Animal Training 60, Mount: Horse 70, Medicine 60, Musical Instrument: Flute 40

A young Sevir, Gav'ren is no novice to horses or their upkeep. Taking to them seemingly from birth, the Sevir grew up caring for the equestrians, learning to ride them earlier than any the barony had ever seen. By his teenage arcs, he had learned how to effectively care for and breed the beasts, seemingly doing so with endless stamina and drive. He is polite and quiet, keeping to himself in his spare time. He is a proficient flautist, though.

Ambre de Relle

Race: Human
Age: 41
Title: Physician
Skills: Medicine 70, Surgery 70, Caregiving 50, Resistance 30

Ambre de Relle had studied for many an arc at the University of Rynmere, perfecting her medical skills in persuit of a position with the royal family. After earning her Degree however, the woman took a short spell of time to 'find herself' in the sweeping floral barony of Bellesoir. It was here that she met a one Ser Bayle, a young guardsman who had taken a most unfortunate arrow to the knee. After some care, a little time and a lot of stolen kisses, Miss Relle found herself applying for a position at Notreve, to be closer to Ser Bayle. That was nigh on twenty arcs ago. They still haven't yet married, for Ambre considers herself a 'free spirit' and doesn't want to put a label on their romance.

Claudio Raj'ryn

Race: Biqaj
Age: 38
Title: Weapons Master
Skills: Blades: Rapier 80, Unarmed Combat 70, Ranged: Shortbow 50, Endurance 35, Strength 35, Acrobatic 20

A warrior whose travels have taken him to places such as Nekhet and Nashaki, Claudio is an easy-going man whose cultured approach to weapons has made him an invaluable asset to the barony. Having no formal education, the warrior delights in telling tales while he instructs, mostly of his time abroad and of his two gods, U'frek and Cassion. He is often seen swimming, even when it's cold outside, and loves oceanic animals almost as much as weapons.

Establishments and Shops

Moderator's Note: Players are free to control NPCs in these locations without moderation. However, keep in mind that these are NPCs involved in major events / plots and therefore they can only be used in a 'surface' manner. If in doubt, please check with a Ryn mod.

The Sweet Scents Perfumery

Description: The Sweet Scents Perfumery, which has been dubbed the finest perfumery in Venora, offers visitors the opportunity to take home the aroma of Bellesoir.
Owner:
Prices: 2GN for a small vial, 5GN for a medium and 8GN for a large. Sampler vials for 20SN

The Gilded Lily

Description: Small inside, the decor is dark rich polish mahogany lit with glowing ambient wall scones. Round tables that seat up to four people are scattered around, with the establishment able to hold 30 people comfortably. There is a long sweeping bar that takes up the right when you enter, and booth seating right down the back. The front of the Lily however is comprised of floor to ceiling glass doors that can be opened back to allow a spectacular view of the flower fields across the hillsides. To take advantage of this, the Gilded Lily also has alfresco seating out the front under lattice work cover that is covered in intertwined flowering creepers.
Owner:
Prices: 5SN for a pint of ale, cider, mead or mulled wine. 7SN for a glass of wine, 2GN for a fruity alcoholic cocktail. Platters of cheese, cured meats, antipasto and cured meat for 5GN a head.

The Rose Crown

Description: a larger establishment than the Lily, decorated in whites and golds inside. Chandelier lighting compliments the interior and seating is varied but on average it’s four a table. The food here is of exceptional quality, and as such does cost a pretty nel, but it is worth the visit. Once every 5th trial a musician or quartet is hosted. This is an open spot for visiting musicians, they simply need to speak to Ser Anders, the manager.
Owner:
Prices: 15GN Main meal, 45GN for a three course meal. See Gilded Lily for drink prices.

The Tulip Keep

Description: a neat establishment that can rent rooms with single, queen or twin beds. They also have two kingsized suites on the top floor, and one penthouse with roof garden access.
Owner:
Prices: 2SN per night for single room, 5SN for queen or twin. 1GN per night kingsized suite and 5GN per night for penthouse.

Bluebell Vineyard

Description: A small estate away from the commons, this vineyard hosts some of the best and varied wines in all Venora. Whites, reds and rosés, made with a variety of local fruit and edible flowers. Anyone who you speak to will suggest trying the Elderflower Sparkling White. The estate house doubles as a restaurant downstairs and an inn upstairs, swathed in rose bushes where ever possible.
Owner:
Prices: 15GN for a bottle of wine from the vineyard, regardless of color. Vintages older than 10 arcs additional 3GN per arc. Meals and accommodation pricing per Rose Crown and Tulip Keep prices Per glass prices per Gilded Lily, however vintages older than 10 arcs cost additional 2SN per arc.

Credit: Darcyanna Venora and Oliver Venora

Tue Nov 13, 2018 10:43 pm

Azmarine

Location: Venora
Baron/Baroness: Andráska Venora
Appeal: Its beauty, amenities, and dedication to the arts.
Drawback: The cost of living is quite high, making it difficult for poorer patrons to get a permanent foothold in the city. The city’s prosperity has also recently drawn the interest of pirates and malicious Mer.

Azmarine, unlike the other cities in Venora, runs at a much slower pace than that of its surrounding areas. It is considered a hub of culture and artistic endeavors and the majority see this place as the center of luxury and paradise. With white stone structures overlooking the soothing coast, this city boasts of low crime rates and easy going citizens. With the second largest population of Biqaj, the ports are filled with a variety of cultures and competitions, the most notable being that of excellent ship making.

Citizens of Azmarine take great pride in the appearance of their city, and the streets are some of the cleanest in all of Rynmere. Given the proximity to water sources, sewers and pipes have been constructed to allow running water, and the design of unique architecture gives natural ventilation in both homes and businesses alike. Heavy winds can prove somewhat problematic without proper precautions as papers and flimsy items have been easily known to blow away unless doors and windows are secured tightly.

Natives, however, know the proper steps to take, and thunderstorms in this region are particularly breathtaking to behold. In fact, the beauty of this city has been heralded as a must see and as a result, tourists flock to the location, primarily newlyweds who wish to spend their first days together with their spouse surrounded by clear waters and lush vineyards. Further inland, farms, and orchards sweep the land, offering a nice retirement for older citizens or those looking to start their life in this region whereas the main streets prove to be too pricey.

Those interested in the arts are encouraged to apprentice in the city, as a vibrant artistic community thrives. Popular plays, concerts, and gallery showings are continually put on and are perhaps the most affordable thing about this location.

Solavora Estate

Previously a sprawling castle further inland and on the edge of the barony's border, newly appointed Baron Andráska Venora has moved his own residence to the hub of the city, preferring a seaside structure that allows for him to be among the people. While large and open as a whole, a number of city officials also share the same space, claiming different wings of the building in their working hours, only accessible by individuals with proper clearance. This allows for quick meetings and few delays, allowing the immediate addressing of complaints, much to the satisfaction of any disgruntled citizens who may find themselves seeking counsel from the baron himself. While many common folks have praised the young Baron's idealistic vision of the future and brave desire to relate to those he oversees, it has also been susceptible to harsh criticism as well, as the assassination attempts and anti-noble sentiments could put him in danger. Many expect that he will relocate to the estate's original location once he is married and wishes to start a family.

Location NPCs

Moderator's Note: Players are free to control NPCs in this location without moderation. However, keep in mind that these are NPCs involved in major events / plots and therefore they can only be used in a 'surface' manner. If in doubt, please check with a Ryn mod.