Ardyria

Overview

Arising from the reconstruction of the Titanic Ring, Ardyria is the bastion continent of the Titanic Ring. Along with the three other major continents (Xorgaddon, Shah Vaedin, and Draulmyr), it represents the core of the Titanic Ring. Unified under the rule of the Twin Empresses, Ardyria is a land at the forefront of civilization on the Rings.

Counts of Ardyria

There are ten true Retainer Counts active in Ardyria plus one unofficial count who rules over the sanctuary city of Alluvium. Below are the current Retainer Counts as of 777 A.R.

County	Name
Ambresis	Count Dara urtel Ambresis
Cardyria	Countess Lavatera of the Orion Court
Drenth	Countess Karina Khan
Gravisburg	Count Weirden Xixson
Kestril	Count Benetar Crane
Mecklen	Countess Corania urtel Mecklen
Phalia	Countess Diana Skiritai
Raxony	Countess Yasmin Yasser
Saar	Countess Oceanne Allaire
Zauphen	Count Helmuth von Grayz
Alluvium	Viscount Castor Windsmith

Ambresis

Ruled by Dara urtel Ambresis, the county of Ambresis houses the largest natural desert on the Titanic Ring. In addition, Ambresis possesses vast mineral and spice reserves, which are distributed throughout Adryia, the Titanic Ring, and even the entirety of the Rings of Meropis. Ambresis also controls the Ionad Gate via its regional capital city of Zaigen and the great Albeck rail, which runs through the center of the county connects cities as far away as Tiras to the South Saoran sea where the goods are shipped from Zaigenhaus to the West.

Zaigen

The regional capital sits at the most important trading location on the Ionad sea (other than Amalathea). Zaigen controls the Ionad Gate, a strait that any merchant vessel seeking to enter or exit the Ionad must use. This has turned Zaigen into not only an important trading hub but a vital strategic stronghold. Many believe, though, that as long as the sure hand of Count Dara Ambresis remains on the Ambrenian throne, the county will continue to prosper.

The Kraken’s Ire

Few soldiers reside in Zaigen due to its near impenetrable defenses. One of these defenses is a gate known as The Kraken’s Ire. This gate, made out of proprietary S.J.C. industries enchanted steel alloy, is able to seal the Ionad Gate in under thirty seconds. Once the Kraken’s Ire is shut and locked, no fleet in existence could sail through Zaigen. After a thorough inspection, Material God Helmuth von Grayz called the gate “very good.”

Legendary Zaigen Emporium

On the Eastern side of the city, along the waters of the strait, lies the greatest market in all of Saora. Within the Zaigen Emporium is every type of vendor and item a person can imagine. Seekers of rare treasures journey from across the Cosmic Stack to peruse the stock found inside the market. There are thought to be tens of thousands of private rooms nestled within the Emporium harboring incredible treasures.

Noble Broker’s Guild of Ardyria

Zaigen is home to the Broker’s Guild of Ardyria. This Guild is responsible for controlling shipping and trade across the continent. Members of its seven-person board are some of the richest, most respected, merchants on the Titanic Ring. The Broker’s Guild controls billions of gold pieces worth of ships, inventory, and office buildings across the continent. However, the Guild’s power is not without limits. Twice sanctions from the Twin Empresses nearly bankrupted the Guild. This has caused the Brokers to walk a fine line between their economic interests and their Empresses’ equitable hands.

Loðbrok School of Sailing and Shipping

For those wishing to become sailors on the Titanic Ring, many will journey to the Loðbrok School in Zaigen. The school an institution that teaches sailing in all its many forms but with a specialty in merchant shipping. However, the school is also known for its cutting-edge naval combat techniques. Many graduates are headhunted after graduation and score lucrative positions in merchant convoys, government naval positions, or exploratory vessels.

Drautell

The small forest town of Drautell represents the main supplier of timber in Ambresis. Drautell’s forest are considered near sacred by its people as they represent their livelihood and future. For years there has been a great demand on Drautell as Zaigen and the whole of Ambresis has sought to expand. This has come to a head with Drautell’s refusal to install a Magna Rail line for fear that it would disturb the forest.

Vitis

Miners in Vitis journey into the mountains each morning to mine iron ore from the mountains. Using a flowing aqueduct, broken-up chunks of ore flow from the mountains into a great pit in the center of Vitis. Although demand is high, the workers of Vitis only work three days a week. This is partially due to the strenuous nature of the work, partially because the Twin Empresses decreed that all mine workers must gain one day of rest after working in the mines, and partially due to the creatures that dwell in the mountain. Miners speak of noises and shadows moving deep below the Ring. When the mines are two busy, the creatures advance further toward the surface. No creatures have been found after investigation, although this has not eased the anxiety of the miners. Many dread the day the creatures from below finally make their dreaded reveal.

Zaigenhaus

The sister city of Zaigenhaus sits on the coast of the Ambres Desert. It sits at the end of the Great Albeck Railroad and provides a port to ship goods from the rail around the Titanic Ring. As the importance of magna rails increases, Zaigenhaus only grows in importance in Ambresis. However, this has also attracted attention from not only the Dark Triad but also bandits. They come seeking to poach the excess goods like flies to carrion. For this reason, many defense contractors employ mercenaries to defend the magna rail transports from attack. Some come solely for money while others come to protect the life-giving river of supplies that keep hundreds of towns in the Ambres desert alive.

Eckhart

Once, in the early days after the Titanic Ring was reformed, the people in Eckhart cried out for relief. The Ambres desert took the weak while the skies refused to give rain. Eckhart petitioned the Twin Empresses for aid. In response, in 719 A.R., Ishin arrived in Eckhart on a ray of sunlight. Eyewitness reports say that the Empress blessed the people, and she relieved their sickness. Then, she blessed the livestock and made them hearty and healthy. Finally, she walked to the center of Eckhart before blessing the ground on which she stood. A great geyser shot forth from the cracked ground. Before long an oasis formed, which remains to this day, tied to the power of Ishin, giving life to the region. During times of drought the people of the Ambres desert flock to Eckart to receive succor from the gift of the Redeeming Empress given long ago. This gift has allowed Eckhart to thrive in the middle of the desert. One of the many stops on the Great Albeck Railroad, it is a distribution point for goods traveling across Saora. The Noble Broker’s Guild has one of its main offices (the Silver Keep) in Eckhart for this reason.

Ossberg

The Blue Sands of Ossberg hold a series of rare minerals. Workers venture from Ossberg each night from the city to mine the desert until late morning when it becomes too hot to mine the sands. Dysprosium, Praseodymium, Mithril, and various rare magical salts are taken from the Blue Sands. In 775 A.R. everything changed for Ossberg. Workers from Ossberg found a nugget of Zostrium weighing 0.8 ounces was found. Now, those seeking their fortune venture to Ossberg in hoping to find Zostrium. As of 777 A.R. 1.6 ounces of Zostrium was extracted from the sands, a total 7.8 billion gold pieces in worth. However, this has also attracted the attention of the Dark Triad and other malicious powers. Since the discovery of Zostrium, miners, usually outsiders seeking Zostrium, are under near-constant attack by everything from Mind Flayers to dragons. The Twin Empresses and the Count of Ambresis have both ordered additional defenses in Ossberg but this has not stemmed the tide.

Strausing

Home to the Great Forge of Morthwyl, Strausing was once the permanent home of the Titan. Today Strausing is a forging hub along the Great Albeck Railroad. Mastersmiths make their home in the middle of the desert, away from distractions, and hone their craft. Those looking for masterwork pieces often journey to Strausing.

Cardyria

The lush county of Cardyria is home to rolling highlands and magical glades. Cardyria’s people, taking after their countess, have become independent and strong-willed over the years. This norm has progressed to the point where calling someone “Cardyrian” is a synonym for stubborn. The Cardyrian way of life has produced some of the most talented mages, inventors, and performers during the 8th century. Bands like Part-Time Poet, Electric Acid, Lemon Confession, People Food, The Upstairs Neighbors, and Uncle Randy all started in Cardyria. Many scholars have sought to study the conditions imposed by Countess Lavatera to create such a period of excellence. Sadly, most are met with a rye smile and a door slammed in their face.

Bellataria

Sometimes known as the Jewel of the West, Bellataria was once a small fishing village. In less than a decade the town has evolved into a new city complete with illustrious spires, granite streets that are cleaned every morning at dawn, and an incredible number of theaters open to the public. The regional capital is one of the most prestigious on the Titanic Ring.

Storm Hold

The great palace of Lavatera, Storm Hold is a castle constantly surrounded in a blustering hurricane of rain and blue lightning. Some have said the Storm Hold is ostentatious with its thirty-two spires, half a dozen ballrooms, and an electrified outer wall that can send thousands of volts of electricity through an oncoming attacker attempting to breach the hold. When a local reporter asked if the countess believed the Storm Hold was superfluous, her response was that the reporter and most other Retainer Counts in Ardyria “have no taste.” Those who have entered the Storm Hold note the awe of the design. The mystic of the Storm Hold only grows since only a select few ever enter the castle since the countess is picky about visitors.

“The lightning is nice but I have a serious problem with all the stairs.”

- Countess Yasmin Yasser, when asked about her trip to the Storm Hold.

Glasshouse

Located in the heart of Bellataria, the Glasshouse is a conservatory for talented individuals. The institution, founded by Countess Lavatera in 728 A.R., seeks talent in all forms. Jugglers, illusionists, smiths, musicians, potters, thieves, and more all find their way to the Glasshouse. Those who pass the grueling entrance exam and performance find a near-limitless set of resources to help them hone their craft. Although a tempting place to stay, most leave the Glasshouse after a few short years of patronage. It is a tradition that those who have honed their skills eventually set out to leave their mark on the world. In recent decades the tradition has helped the Glasshouse grow in prestige. Many nobles will pay premium prices for a night watching the skills of a Glasshouse member. If a member of the Glasshouse gains enough notoriety they may even receive an invitation to play for the countess at the Storm Hold. This is thought to be the highest honor one could be bestowed.  

The Wolf Gate

Near the Storm Hold is a large silver archway known as the Wolf Gate. Those who pass through the gate find themselves in a pocket dimension filled with wild game in a vast forest. It is not recommended for outsiders to enter though. Inside the Wolf Gate dwells a great clan of werewolves known as the Storm Pack. Fiercely loyal to Bellataria and their count, the Storm Pack is allowed to live within the Wolf Gate. However, in times of trouble, the Earth-Bone Witch Lavatera has been known to open the gate and unleash the Wolves of the Storm. Those tracked by the Storm Pack rarely, if ever, escape. Many are drug before the countess a blubbering mess. Others are simply bones when returned to Lavatera.

Olben

Many entering Cardyria pass through Olben. This hub city ships goods all across Cardyria. From musician instruments to crops grown in the fertile countryside, Olben has it all. The city is also home to the Primordial Pass. This building contains a series of transportation runes that allow a person to travel between the Titanic Ring and the Primordial Ring.

Ravindorf

Nestled at the top of Savris’ Maw, Ravindorf is a place that most pass through to enter the northern half of Cardyria. Its elevation and climate make traversing the sheer cliffs and mountains around the city nearly impossible. Even in the winter months, workers must be set to clear ice from the tracks.

The city is split into two pieces: the upper city and the lower city. The upper city consists of storehouses, magna rail stations, and a series of shops for travelers passing through. Many officials conduct business in the upper city. However, the lower city which hugs the cliffs, is a different story. Lower Ravindorf is home to strange folk magics that wrap their way through the streets. Legend has it that centuries before the destruction of the Titanic Ring, a cabal of magics attempted to channel dimensions within the Cosmic Stack through different streets within the lower city. Their experiments left abnormalities in the lower city which manifest in unpredictable occurrences. While the locals have adjusted to life mixed with the strange, travelers often find themselves snatched by one of Ravindorf’s many secrets. The Twin Empresses have sponsored private rescue teams whose mission is to suppress these strange magic anomalies. These rescue teams, known as Spooks by the locals, risk life and afterlife each day attempting to learn the secrets within Ravindorf.

Varinthia

Do you know what happens in Varinthia? Most don’t. Even if you pass through the city that shines with a pale violet glow, you likely won’t remember you stay. At best you’ll have glimpses, flashes, of moments and memories. People with generational wealth walk in one morning and leave later with no memory, no money, and no recourse. The opposite is true as well. What happens in Varinthia? Only the Countess Lavatera, the Twin Empresses, and a few well-connected people know. For this reason many travel to Varinthia just to experience the strange amnesia that comes with entering the city.

Strem

This harbor town sits in the frigid north of Cardyria. For much of the year ice sits in broken chunks within the waters of Strem. However, during the spring thaw and the summer heat, Strem is a bustling town. Once it was larger, being one of the main trading cities for the continent of Xorgaddon, but that trade avenue has dried. While Strem isn’t the shining trade power it once was the people still make a decent living. Yet, in recent years, something strange has begun to occur off the coast of Strem. Since 770 A.R. ships have been found floating abandoned to the West of Strem. The ship’s crew are all missing with no signs of struggle. Curiously, the cargo all remains intact except for medicines and certain alchemical supplies which are always taken during the event. While these events are infrequent, the Strem disappearances have the locals concerned.

Titan’s Rest

Resting upon the cliffs of Kost with pristine forwards to the east, Titan’s Rest was once a vacation spot for the Titans. Technically, it still is to this day. Titans, like Zolona or Wierden, will occasionally return to the shores to rest. However, many now flock to Titan’s Rest to get away from their problems. The entire town is essentially a resort. Titan’s Rest is also heavily enchanted to create an even more relaxed environment. These enchantments keep drinks filled, outside communications out, anxieties low, and the temperature always perfect.

Drenth

Drenth is a major trade leader on the continent of Ardyria due to its access to important shipping lanes. The rare alchemical materials found in the land around Drenth lake have led Drenth to primarily focus on alchemical creations.

Grunfeld The capital of Drenth was once a mighty Titan fortress that expanded into a flourishing city.

Pestle Towers Home to the foremost alchemist academy on the Titanic Ring.

The Augorial This diamond shaped block of Moonstone grants those with the gift of foresight increased power. Karina Khan and her acolotyes use this device to read the fortunes of those that seek them. Payment is often not tendered with money but with deeds, honor, and worth.

Drenth Turtle Docks The people of Drenth lake travel on the backs of turtles. This massive dock located in the harbor is where up to three-hundred turtles are housed at any given time.

Legara

This mining town is home to a series of rare mineral veins.

Saidorn

The coastal town of Saidorn is home to many elves which have immigrated from other Rings. Saidornians primarily collect pearls from the surrounding ocean.

Cahul

The coastal town of Cahul is home to many elves which have immigrated from other Rings. Its inhabitants tend to great kelp forests that they harvest for food. Recently, the people have begun growing sugar cane.

Derevo

The coastal town of Derevo is home to many elves which have immigrated from other Rings. Sitting at the mouth of the Duskerril, Derevo is a supply hub for many smaller towns that sit further into the mountains. It also controls an access point to Alluvium.

Betz

This town controls the Betz strait which sends valuable building supplies to northern Drenth. The strait is a favor target of bandits, monsters, and the Dark Triad. Therefore, many mercenaries find work guarding the Betz strait.

Ralian

Ralian connects the ancient city of Niederleis by rail to the rest of Ardyria. Due to poor construction, Ralian is beginning to flood. Karina Khan has begun importing in Teculite from Kovorov causing Ralian to start floating. It is a constant battle to save the sinking town.

Wrensburg

This is a sailor’s town that is often used for resupplying. The town was built near a series of necromancer tombs which has infused the dirt with magical properties. Necormancers and other mages with ill-intent often flock to the outskirts of Wrensburg which has become a problem. Rumor has it that there is a secret hideout for those practicing dark magic near the town itself.

Gravis

Leader: Count Weirden Xixson

This county used to house the capital city of the Titans. Now it is the epicenter for much of the residual action after the Vitality War.

Gravisburg

Hall of History Founded by Weirden, this museum is dedicated to documenting and remembering the history surrounding the Vitality War, the Titanic War, and the Great Betrayal.

Headquarters of the Concerned Ardyrian Society The headquarters of C.A.S. are located in Gravisburg. This organization, thought to be linked to the Throne Breakers, actively spreads hateful rehetoric and protests against the Titans.

The Tiefling Quarter Many tiefling have flocked to Weirden (the “first tiefling”) and have begun to settle in Gravisburg.

Bastion of the Nine Still underconstruction, the Bastion of the Nine is the seat of government in Gravis. Weirden keeps expanding the castle. By the time it is fully complete, it will be the largest castle on the Titanic Ring.

Fanore

The contested trading hub between Phalia and Gravis is where much of Phalia’s agricultural products pass. Thousands of workers labor around the clock packaging, marking, and shipping goods across the Rings.

Darataun

Home to University of Darataun, this is a college town. The university itself is dedicated to the advancement of the Titanic Ring via the uncovering of new technology, farming methods, trade practices, and through community outreach. This place is often a target for the Throne Breakers.

Memorial

This town sprung from the massive memorials dedicated to the fallen due to the conflicts between the Titans and the High Gods. In the year 759 A.R., 999 people were executed by a group of people called “The Sons of Vycherov.” The leadership of the group is still on the run as of 788 A.R. After much research, it has been determined that the vast majority of members on not from Vycherov and are connected to the Throne Breaker movement.

Toad’s Rock

The favorite vacationing spot of the Twin Empresses, home to their beachside villa, has grown into a thriving frog farming town. Poisons found within many of the frogs are extracted and turned into everything from perfumes to alchemical ingredients.

Kestril

Leader: Count Benetar Crane The central region of Kestril is home to a vast desert known as the Ghost Sands. After the Catastrophe of Xorgaddon, the Dark Triad descended on a weakened Kestril. Now Count Benetar Crane is attempting to hold the county together despite all odds.

Grestin

The capital of Kestril is home to some of the finest weapons manufacturers on the Titanic Ring.

The Botique District Grestin’s climate allows for the production of many different textiles which are all brought to the Botique District. Grestin has become one of the fashion capitals of Ardyria.

Buried Armory Below the streets of Grestin, the weapons manufacturing industry have constructed various factories which churn out weapons around the clock.

Massacre Spire Since demons return to the Abyss on after their exorcism, the Massacre Spire was built to trap demons until the end of time. The elite guard of Grestin, the Ashen Veil, and various other organizations guard the Massacre Spire around the clock.

Jaupon

The fields of Jaupon produce cotton and wool while nearby forests harvest silk worms. These textiles are shipped via rail to Raatzig.

Raatzig

The port city of Raatzig supplies the desert towns of the Ghost Sands while exporting raw materials primarily to Grestin and Zaigen.

Spertal

The people of Spertal begrudgingly pay their taxes as they seemingly attempt to escape civilization. Despite hating outsiders, Spertal has needed to bring in mercenaries to combat the continuing mind flayer threat.

Niederleis

One of the oldest cities on the Titanic Ring, Niederleis’ history supposedly dates back to the founding of the Ring. In the middle of the desert, it’s great green buildings rise like a mirage. But the massive city isn’t an illusion. Spanning more than three hundred square miles, more than fifty wells provide water to the city which houses a population of almost one-million people. Most live in the ancient buildings of Niederleis that stay cool in the day and warm at night.

To the North of Niederleis lies the great crater. There is a myth that a great king and their warriors made their last stand at Niederleis. In a final act of desperation, the king destroyed their army and the invaders. Whatever the truth turns out to be is irrelevant. The upturned rock and gemstones have made mining the crater incredibly profitable. However, in recent years, a number of strange staircases have been found leading deep into the Titanic Ring. They are still being explored.

As more people explore the crater it should be noted that an increased number of paranormal sightings have been reported. The Ghost Sands are no stranger to the paranormal. However, the locals note that these spirits seem to not be bound to a particular place or object which is typical.

Mecklen

Leader: Countess Corania urtel Mecklen Once the jewel of Ardyria, Mecklen has fallen under increased scrutiny since the Catastrophe of Xorgaddon. The massive debt the county now finds itself under threatens to tear the region apart. Corania is a shell of her former self as others attempt to vy for power.

Wulfax

The city of Wulfax is a four tiered city which is interconnected by magna rails and suspended bridged which allow access to its many buildings.

Wulfax Technical College The greatest artificers on the Rings of Meropis flock to Wulfax Technical College to learn their trade. Some of the greatest minds on the Rings have taught here since its opening in 714 A.R.

S.J.C. Industries Headquarters Known for their incredible works of articing, the company’s nervous system is found in Mecklen. Their building, know as the Mighty White Oak, is an iconic piece of Mecklen’s skyline.

Castle Mecklen Home to Countess of Mecklen, once the castle and its laboratories were open to the public. Now the famous innovation center is dormant with its occupants rarely making appearances. No new creations have left the castle in a number of years.

Lergenz

Lying at the heart of four important rail systems, Lergenz is the crossroads of Mecken. More than twenty shipping companies have made the city their primary base of operations. More freight moves through Lergenz then any other city on the Titanic Ring.

Sorava

Much of the major innovation surrounding the new LSRS technology is made in Sorava. The city is the primary production hub for the machinery needed to power the LSRS factories. Sorava’s port is also a major boon for Mecklen. Almost one-thousand ships a day load products and sail across the Titanic Ring with full cargo holds.

Hannersburg

The people of Hannersburg build the rails and cars for the magna rail lines that are starting to spread across the Rings of Meropis. As of 777 A.R., 95% of all magna rail parts, rail lines, and cars were manufactured in Hannersburg. Additionally, Hannersburg controls the Pearl Bridge and taxes those that sale in and out of the Pearl Sea.

Ferlach

This bordertown is filled with hundreds of factories. Most common items are manufactured in the town. Ferlach is a working man’s town. However, with increased labor demands and taxes, the people are beginning to grow restless.

Gfhol

This colony located near the active Antebeck Voclanco supplies raw ore to Mecklen. During a few weeks in the winter, the town becomes snowed in and loses contact with the outside world.

Seiber

Located on the water, the people of Seiber are dedicated to building the finest ships in all of Ardyria. In 772 A.R., the town started constructing Astral Ships. There are plans to construct an Astral Lighthouse but the debt burden has so far prevented the investment.

Muhr

Uisng the Seiber Railline, the crops found south of Hannersburg are harvested, put onto ships, then sail into the Pearl Sea providing the people of Mecklen with food.

Eberau

Due to its proximity to the mountains and near Lake Hinter, Eberau specializes in viticulture. The high quality has also led to various entertainment industries moving into the city.

Hinter

Most people in Hinter live a simple life in the swamp. They fish, travel west to the ore mines, and sell jewelry. However, away from prying eyes, various organizations have begun building black market weapon shops. Despite the best efforts of the Retainer Counts, they cannot crush the Hinter weapon trade.

Phalia

Leader: Countess Diana Skiritai Phalia is the breadbasket of the Titanic Ring. Filled with profitable farms, a person can walk across the county only crossing through crop fields. The land between the two rivers is one of the most peaceful places in all the Rings of Meropis.

Albeck

Hartear Sprint Port Albeck is home to the fastest moving port on the Titanic Ring. Workers pack grain, produce, and meat at a break neck pace for eight hours a day. Due to the pay, there is a five year waiting list for applicants. Many around Phalia train from birth hoping to jump the line and land a job at the Hartear Sprinit Port. After just four years of work, many workers retire with enough money to buy a farm and live comfortably for the rest of their life.

Phalian Red Feathers The Red Feathers are a feared group of snipers that prowl Phalia looking for bandits, monsters, and member of the Dark Triad. Named after the red feathers on their arrows, their fortress is located in Albeck. Trained by the Countess herself, the Red Feathers make sure the farmers can farm without interruption. It is said that the Red Feathers have one of the most robust intelligence networks in the Rings of Meropis.

In recent years, the [Redacted] has been most active in Phalia.

Dyrad’s Grove In the heart of Albeck is a grove with trees from the Primoridal Ring. The Primoridal energy within the grove attracts druids, fey, and others attuned to Primoridal Magic from across Saora.

Wexburg

Gazing out into the ocean, the great cliffs of Wexburg house an important resource: diatomaceous earth. This earth is mined and used to improve the soil quality across Phalia and beyond.

Falken

With its position on the Leben River, Falken ships cargo from the surrounding countryside via the Albeck Railroad. While not as busy as Albeck’s port, hundreds of ships still pass through the port every day. The Falken Tunnel, built by S.J.C. Industries in 751 A.R., gets far more use. Running beneath the Leben River, the tunnel allows for vial food to be dispersed to the deserts of Ambresis county.

Pearse

Pearse mines zinc from the nearby mountains which is used across the Titanic Ring for coins, building materials, and agriculture.

Shan

Acting as the main rail hub in central Phalia, Shan’s seven story rail station is one of the largest in all the Titanic Ring. Merchants have flocked to the town to engage in the booming agricultural market. Shan is also home to the Phalia property records office which details all property rights of all people within the county. Major real estate transactions occur daily within the records office.

Kiltarin

Home to the famous Kiltarin orchards, the surrounding landscape is filled with fruit bearing trees. What trees don’t bear fruit are carefully harvested.

Timolin

North of the profitable two rivers, Timolin specializes in the creation of paint, parchment, and other writing utensils. Timolin instruments are the gold standard across the Titanic Ring. The town is also a major railway hub between Zauphen and Phalia.

Rhyme The northern town of Rhyme is home to a major logging industry. Sturdy oak and evergreen wood is sent around Ardyria using the Albeck Railroad.

Raxony

Leader: Countess Yasmin Yasser Running along the Rush River, Raxony is home to wide open plains, crop filled fields, and a culture built around efficiency.

Raxen

The capital of Raxony connects East and West via the Gorlitz Bridge that spans the Rush River.

Gorlitz Bridge Made from chistled granite, the Gorlitz Bridge is a marvel of engineering that is over 400 feet wide. Countess Yasmin Yasser had the bridge double as a dam that uses the white water current of the Rush to create energy. The clean energy of the Gorlitz Bridge helps to supply the needs of the people more than 200 miles away.

Census Office Amalathea gave the job of record keeping to the county of Raxony. In the great census office, Raxony officials keep records on every trade, house, and perhaps every person. Employing more than fifty thousand people, the census office is the largest employer in Raxen.

Windbolt Racing Track Horse racing is the favorite sport in Raxony. The capital’s massive track can house more than one-hundrend thousand people. However, the track often has other more exotic creatures race for the enjoyment of the crowds.

Zargeers

The farming town of Zargeers sprang from a series of discoveries. Zargeers is littered with forgotten ruins hidden under ground. Treasure hunters now flock to the area hoping to open the next great dungeon filled with gold, jewels, and magical artifacts.

Grime

This town is little more than a collection center for the local harvests. Many who grow up in Grime never leave the town despite it being connected to a busy magna rail track. There is little to do here except gaze out at the wide open plains. Yet, for some reason, wild beasts often mutate in the plains around this sleepy town.

Hoxter

Found on the farthest western edge of Raxony, Hoxter is still recovering from the Catastrophe of Xorgaddon. Much of the town was destroyed that day from the shockwave. Now the people of Hoxter are experimenting with arcane architecture in an attempt to thrust Hoxter into the modern age.

Alsbruck

The open plains around Alsbruck are filled with horses. Alsbruck has become the horse capital of not only Raxony but also Ardyria. Prized horses are loaded onto special magna rail cars and transported as faraway as Amalathea.

Talstein

This major trade hub is home to a number of banks. With trading coming from Mecklen, Cardyria, and Raxony, the bankers of Talstein are some of the most influential people in Kost. For those wishing to know the real dealings within Ardyria, all a person has to do is find one of the private backrooms in a Talstein lounge.

Jahrn

Once upon a time, Jahrn was the place a person would travel to purchase a quality horse. Alsbruck dethroned Jahrn a long time ago. However, the populace adapted and now specializes in exotic mounts. Griffins, Wyverns, Green Worms, Titanaboas, Raptors, Rexes, and more can all be bought here.

Maun

This small town is Raxony’s access to the Pearl Sea. The uneven soil, mountains, and thick forest have barred the laying of a magna rail to connect Maun and Alsbruck. Merchants are able to make a fortune on the Maun-Alsbruck route. However, the treacherous terrain often hides monsters. Caravans often pay for escort at top dollar prices.

Zirn

The small town provides Raxen with all the building materials it could ever need. Miners trek from the town into the mountains to mine iron while the foresters load hundreds of logs a day onto the tracks. Some of have nicknamed Zirn as Raxen’s “supply depot.”

Fhea Noc

On the edge of Fhea Lake, the people of Fhea Noc live in quiet solitude. Unlike the Rush River, Fhea Lake is tranquil. Many seeking retirement find their way to Fhea Noc eventually.

Saar

Leader: Countess Oceanne Allaire The county at the edge of the world contains some of the world’s most confounding secrets.

Erlauf

The capital of Erlauf has all its building made from ash wood soaked in holy water. Under the shadow of the Erlauf pyramid, its citizens walk through a world that is barely tethered to reality.

Lawless Magic Magic does not behave normally around Erlauf and much of the surrounding landscape. It confounds scholars.

The Erlauf Pyramid Brimming with Primoridal Magic, the pyramid helps to regulate the strangeness around Erlauf. It was constructed in 733 A.R. by the Twin Empresses with contributions from many of the Retainer Counts and Seraphs.

Allaire Palace The decadent palace is the home of the immortal countess Oceanne Allaire. After the Nimogrov Incidient in 729 A.R., the Countess gained immortality and has not aged a day. However, the countess is a recluse, rumored drunk, and thought to be unlikeable. Saar continues to survive though despite the strangeness that grips the land so the people continue to elect the Countess.

Cahara

The port city of Cahara is little more than a small fishing village. It is considered the most “normal” place in Saar. The waters will still churn up a mystery or ravenous sea monster every now and then.

Lix

To the North of Lix lies the Bastai Wood. Spirits, curses, and demons prowl this ancient wood. The woodsmen of Lix who venture each day into the cursed landscape always return by sundown. Few survive in the Bastai after the sun sets.

Floresti

The flowers of Floresti are some of the most beautiful in all the Titanic Ring. Citizens of the town pick the flowers then teleport them across the Ring via a robust teleportation portal. At least, that is their story. Few outsiders ever go to Floresti because the teleportation portal is one way. Payment is shipped to the small oceanside town…

Dim Harbor

This is a prison settlement at the edge of the world. Criminals who must be removed from the Rings are often shipped to Dim Harbor. Little else is known about the inner workings of the settlement. Even Oceanne Allaire acknowledges her rule over Dim Harbor is moreso a burden. The Countess sends supplies and the people of Dim Harbor remain.

Zauphen

Leader: Count Helmuth von Grayz Zauphen mirrors its Count. The people are strong, fearless, and fiercely loyal to the Twin Empresses.

Traisen

Located in the far north, the area around Traisen is a frozen wasteland. The city’s multiple walls, arcane battlements, and layers of protective wards serve a single purpose: the last defense of the Rings of Meropis. Traisen’s civilian population is incidental to its true mission. Count Helmuth von Grayz has continuously upgraded the city’s defenses and stores for a prolonged siege. Privately the Count has confided that Traisen is supposed to allow some to survive if the Dark Triad overwhelms the Rings of Meropis.

Walls of Traisen As of 777 A.R. Traisen has four layers of walls: Fronza Wall, Cerebro Wall, Zoloto Wall, and Posledney Wall. The highest wall, Posledney, stands 80 feet tall around Traisen keep.

Sparklight Caves Count Helmuth von Grayz has constructed a series of caves beneath Traisen that grow food year round.

Io Array Traisen has an array of sixteen Io Cannons with enough ammunition to support one year of continuous firing.

Dunkel

Below Dunkel lies the Demon’s Maw, a crack in the Titanic Ring caused by an Abyss incursion as of 766 A.R. Since then demons and other demonic creatures have surged from the wound below the town. In 769 A.R. Fort Fear was completed and outfitted with three Io Cannons. Volunteers from around Zauphen come to join the Kahbre Guard. No matter the odds, losses, or consequences, Fort Fear has not fallen to the demonic host.

Tiras

With Traisen being a fortress, the administrative parts of the Zauphen government are found here. All major government activities occur with Tiras’ walls. The High Baron, first assistant to the Count of Zauphen and main executive official resides in Tiras.

Warth

The people of Zauphen need weapons and armor. Warth provides these things with its sprawling forges which keep the Kahbre Guard well equipped.

Langau

At the direction of Count Helmuth von Grayz artificers constructed an early warning array in Langau in 772 A.R. Since its construction Langau watches the skies and alerts towns across Ardyria of Mind Flayer raids.

Arriach

This is the main port city of Zauphen. Due to the poor climate, Zauphen must import a majority of its food and other essential resources.

Red’s Town

This town was founded as a dedication to a deceased High God. The population of the town mainly consists of tieflings that have immigrated from other Rings. Red’s Town is home to the Red Pyramid which floats 300 feet in the air toward the Western side of Red’s Town. The Pyramid itself seems to leak low magic. Despite the increased magic, necromancers are efficiently kept away by the town’s militia.

Vespar

Located in the North Ionad Sea, Vesper is a training town for the Kahbre Guard and other mercenaries.

Alluvium

During the dividing of land after the reformation of the Titanic Ring, the Twin Empresses gave all lands the ability to join the county system or remain independent. As of 777 A.R., Alluvium is the last independent jurisdiction in Ardyria. Even then, the city still pays a tithe to Amalathea every year.

The independence has made Alluvium city a favorite of rogues, recluses, Throne Breakers, and more.

As of 777 A.R., Alluvium is under the control of Viscount Castor Windsmith.

Alluvium City

While twenty percent of the city is above ground, most of Alluvium city is built into the mountain sides and below the ground. Some believe that the city descends more than two miles but there is no sure way to tell. Building codes are non-existent. Allluvium grows more like an organism than a carefully designed city.

The Sigiled Paths Powerful wards protect the entrances into the city. Only by navigating one of four carefully monitored paths can a person enter Alluvium.

Amalathea

Home to the Twin Empresses, Amalathea is a solar punk paradise of a city. Skyscrapers covered with solar panels dot the landscape beneath the shade of the Tree of Quelling.

Capital of the Counties Amalathea is the shining jewel of Ardyria. With a miniscule crime rate, all but extinct homelessness, and a booming economy, Amalthea is a testament to the success of the Twin Empresses and their allies in the years following the Vitality War.

East Port

Across the Nicholas Bridge lies East Port. This port is filled with mercenaries and other fortune seekers looking for work.

West Port

Those in West Port specialize in the appraisal, acquisition, and trade of technologies. Many researchers under the direct command of the Twin Empresses study the new pieces of artificing that appear in the local shops.

North Port

The smallest of the other ports by size, the area around North Port has the best soil. The Twin Empresses often grant small parcels of land to those who have aided the people of Ardyria. Those living across the Khloe Bridge are often thought of in the highest regard.