Chapter 4: Cardinal Peaks
As the first rays of sunlight colored the sky, a town perched atop windswept hills of red granite known as Cardinal Peaks stood as a beacon, welcoming the dawn before any other part of the Qeddah Sultanate.
Known for its network of mines yielding precious ore known as brown æsther, the town expanded steadily over the years. It was a wellspring of wealth for the town, drawing merchants and nobles from far and wide who sought to capitalize on the town's growing economy.
Cardinal Peaks has witnessed a significant expansion of its boundaries, a response to the growing influx of people eager to take advantage of the thriving trade opportunities the town offers. The population has reached over twenty thousand, and the town is divided into five districts, namely the town square, the harbor, the mines, the arena, and the residential area.
The town square, Cardinal Peaks' central gathering place, is the heart and soul of the town. Surrounded by charming buildings constructed from the same red granite as the hills on which the town is perched, it exudes warmth and liveliness.
Cobblestone pathways crisscross through the square, leading pedestrians to various shops, cafes, and market stalls, while colorful awnings provide shade and shelter from the elements.
Merchants proudly display their goods, enticing passersby with an array of products ranging from fresh produce and handcrafted items to unique souvenirs and trinkets. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, baked goods, and tantalizing scents of local cuisine.
At the center of the square stands a majestic fountain, cascading water down tiers of intricately carved brown æsther. The fountain serves as a meeting point, where friends gather, children play, and romantics find comfort in its tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, the town square transforms into a vibrant hub of entertainment. Musicians and street performers fill the air with lively melodies and captivating performances, attracting crowds of spectators who revel in the joyous atmosphere. Laughter and applause can be heard echoing through the square, adding to the enchantment of the evening.
Surrounding the town square are a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and taverns, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. Locals and visitors mingle at outdoor seating areas, enjoying meals and drinks while engaging in animated conversations.
The town square of Cardinal Peaks is much more than just a marketplace; it is a place where the community comes together, bonds over shared experiences, and celebrates the town's prosperity. It is a lively and dynamic space that encapsulates the spirit and essence of the town, inviting all who step foot into its embrace to become part of its story.
The town square is a place of calming sights, sounds, and flavors, where business and community meet, producing a dynamic and friendly ambiance that is uniquely its own.
At the edge of the town square, where the vibrant energy of Cardinal Peaks flowed seamlessly into the tranquility of Crescent Bay, stood the harbor. This port was a gateway to distant lands, serving as a vital hub for trade and maritime activities.
The peer stretched out into the sparkling turquoise waters, offering a breathtaking view of the bay. Ships of all sizes, their sails billowing in the wind, lined the dock. Sailors hurried about, their voices carrying on the salty breeze as they loaded and unloaded cargo, ensuring the smooth flow of goods in and out of the town.
Merchants, with keen eyes and shrewd smiles, oversaw the precious cargo being transported to and from the ships. Exotic spices, silks, and rare treasures from far-off lands found their way into the eager hands of traders who sought fortune.
As the ships bobbed gently on the waves, the sound of seagulls echoed overhead, adding a touch of coastal charm to the maritime scene. Their calls mingled with the laughter and animated conversations of sailors and merchants, creating a lively symphony that filled the air.
In the shadow of the ships, fishermen returned from their early morning expeditions, bringing with them the day's catch. Locals and travelers gathered near the water's edge, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to purchase the freshest seafood straight from the source.
The harbor of Cardinal Peaks was a busy intersection of trade, adventure, and community. A place where the passionate energy of the town met the serene beauty of the bay.
As ships set sail into the unknown, carrying dreams and aspirations, the harbor remained a steadfast connection to the world beyond, embracing all who stepped foot upon its docks. In the harmonious blend of business and pleasure, the harbor of Cardinal Peaks reflected the spirit of the town itself - a captivating place that many called home.
Beyond the town square and the bustling harbor, nestled within the majestic red granite hills, lay the mines of Cardinal Peaks. These vast and treacherous caverns were the lifeblood of the town, drawing miners from far and wide in search of fortune and opportunity.
The tunnels snaked through the rocky terrain, their walls glimmering with veins of precious metals. The air was thick with anticipation and the sound of tools striking against rock echoed through the cavernous depths.
It was a dangerous endeavor, fraught with risks of cave-ins and gas leaks, but the promise of untold riches spurred the fearless miners onward. Day and night, they toiled tirelessly, their sweat and perseverance engraved into the very fabric of Cardinal Peaks.
The clinking of carts filled with æsther ore resonated through the mines, as workers transported their findings to the surface, their faces smeared with grime and their bodies weary from the laborious task.
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Over time, both commoners and nobles have been attracted to the town, drawn by the steady supply of brown æsther that it offers. A consistent output from the mines has sustained the livelihoods of all miners and guaranteed profitable returns for the nobles who invested their wealth in the town.
Æsther ores, while sturdy, are also volatile, requiring proper handling to ensure safety. As a result, professional guilds have been tasked with overseeing mining operations in Cardinal Peaks, ensuring uninterrupted æsther production and the safety of the town. While many guilds have staked a claim over the mines, only three have the necessary assets to back up their claims.
The largest of these three is the Mythrilius Exodia Guild, led by Raneeya Imani, a stern elven woman hailing from the southern kingdom. This primeval guild boasts a long lineage of renowned magicsmiths.
Raneeya's striking appearance, with her scarred face, slender features, pointed ears, and chin, commands respect and admiration from her followers. Her youthful visage belies her true age, which remains a mystery. Her mane of red hair cascades down her waistline, interspersed with silver and gold highlights.
The Mythrilius Exodia Guild has drawn countless individuals to its ranks, enticed by its well-organized structure and the reputation of its members. Many join not only to partake in the lucrative æsther industry but also to learn from Raneeya's unparalleled wisdom in the art of weapon crafting.
Their weapons are highly sought after by warriors and nobility alike, known for their exceptional quality and detailed designs. The guild has become synonymous with excellence in the realm of weaponry.
One of the guild's notable achievements is the establishment of the Electius Aqademia, a prestigious youth academy that sets Mythrilius Exodia apart from other guilds in Cardinal Peaks. Many renowned names have emerged from this fine establishment, solidifying its reputation as one of the town's best schools.
Under Raneeya's guidance, the guild has flourished, constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation, craftsmanship, and youth development. Her leadership has fostered an environment of growth and development, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to shine. Staying true to the guild's motto, 'Crescente Meliori,' the Mythrilius Exodia Guild continues to thrive and set the standard for excellence in their craft.
'Progress and Persevere' is the motto of the Dreadnought, widely recognized as the most technologically advanced guild in Cardinal Peaks. The guild is led by Oswald Brodley, a brilliant human technologist originally from the Rykan Isles in the West.
A middle-aged man, clean-shaven, with strong cheekbones, pale brown eyes, and short-cut brown hair, Oswald ventured into the town's mining industry over a decade ago, introducing new steam-powered technology.
Since then, the guild has become a hub for groundbreaking inventions and cutting-edge advancements. Brodley's visionary leadership has propelled the guild to the forefront of technological progress.
Members of Dreadnought work tirelessly to advance their current technology, perfecting their inventions to maximize efficacy and efficiency. The Dreadnought Polytechnique, the guild's school of engineering and technology, has drawn gifted engineers, innovators, and tinkerers from all over the realm.
To secure future talent, children with extraordinary IQs are enrolled in their youth programs, setting an environment of persistent workflow inside the guild like a well-oiled engine. Working together, they pushed the bounds of what is known and sometimes forayed into new waters.
While other guilds may focus on traditional craftsmanship or magical arts, Dreadnought stands out for its unwavering commitment to advancing technology. Their contributions have not only revolutionized the mining industry but have also had a profound impact on various aspects of society, from transportation to communication.
Remaining at the forefront of progress, the guild continuously strives to reshape the future through its innovative creations. In terms of production, none is on par with the guild presently.
Loxodar, a race of humanoids with elephant-like features was one of the first beastmen that managed to assimilate into human civilization. The Marque de Ivory Guild is notoriously known for its involvement in the black market with the loxodar Mormont Devereux at its helm.
Bony plates along the loxodar's cheeks and forehead ridge give him a perpetually angry expression. His yellowed teeth and black gums reveal a lust for meat, wine, and gold. A scowl in his eyes and a hunch in his posture show he is ready for a fight.
Having a fat loxodar in an ivory silk garb and black leather armor for a leader, it portrayed the image of wealth and greed. Synonymous with the guild's motto, 'Tout est d'or'.
The tusks protruding from Mormont's gnashing jaws are long and mighty, asserting his authority over his subordinates. He runs the guild with full authority and never tolerates any kind of disapproval.
The guild's mercenary training camp, 'le Fourrage' attracted applicants from all walks of life by offering them legal contracts to ensure both side's interests were secured. Those who managed to finish the training often ended up as the guild's bounty hunters.
Their reputation for shady dealings and their association with the black market often lead to whispers of corruption and illicit activities. Although never miss catching the attention of the mayor of Cardinal Peaks, Mayor Rachmat Sulong, and the sheriff in the businesses they partake in, the Marque de Ivory Guild is still considered tolerable by the local authority due to the job opportunities they created.
As the loxodar Mormont Devereux leads the Marque de Ivory Guild, the combination of their formidable presence and questionable dealings creates an intriguing dynamic within Cardinal Peaks, the town they have assimilated into.
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Surrounding Cardinal Peaks is the Purba Forest, a dense and ancient woodland that made Crimson Peaks nearly inaccessible via land routes. Towering trees created a natural barrier, serving as both protection and a source of intrigue for adventurers who sought to explore the untamed wilderness beyond.
Hanging over the great Red Cliff of Asphyr while overlooking Crescent Bay, Cardinal Peaks held its own against regular zak'nagi attacks. These creatures have a strong affinity for æsther, the reason why the town is under constant siege.
The sight of zak'nagi swarms outside of the town's wall passing by is far too common. As a result, warning shots fired by the guards also became a rhythmic norm.
The main gate to the town is towered by a couple of monumental overlooks made out of brown æsther, shadowing over the peers. In addition to spotting potential threats, the towers also serve as security checkpoints for people entering and leaving the city.
Armed with a steam-powered ballista on each tower and along the walls, added with constant surveillance by the guards, Cardinal Peaks served as a safe haven for everyone in its vicinity.
Castled in a defensive position and multiple defensive improvements over the years are what made the town what it is today. Apart from the ballista, Cardinal Peaks also managed to procure other forms of advanced siege weaponry via technological assimilation from traders and merchants alike to cope with the increasing zak'nagi peril.
Mayor Rachmat Sulong has done a great job in balancing the prosperity of the town. Emphasizing the safety of the people while making sure the welfare of each is not overlooked is not a cinch.
Mayor Rachmat Sulong is a 60-year-old man with a lean but fit figure. Prefers a monocle instead of a pair of glasses, he has a pleasant face with a pair of wide and inquisitive eyes. His skin is slightly wrinkled but not overly so. His semi-long hair is white, his head is balding, and his grey mustache and eyebrows complement his complexion.
With Sheriff Nathkin Cole, a bonecan veteran from The Great Beast War by his side, the order is kept nice and tight. Few dared to cross paths with the sheriff. The ones who did will only have their encounter with him being told by others as stories and bar jokes.
Simplified as an automaton with conscience, the bonecans have evolved over the years, giving them an appearance that resembles a human. Though many look down on them as artificial beings, discrimination against bonecans in Cardinal Peaks is rare.
Æsther is what made Cardinal Peaks the town it is today. The reason why Mythrilius Exodia, Dreadnought, and Marque de Ivory were in a constant struggle for control of the mines.
A source of profit, but also a beacon that attracted swarms of zak'nagi from time to time. A balance the mayor has been struggling with since the first æsther ore was discovered within the town's network of maze-like mines.
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