Sagemont
Sagemont (also known as The Silver Jewel of the North) is an imperial city in the northern region of Almeria. It is the second largest city in the country after Eisenberg and it has a population of around 40.000 people of diverse races, although humans are more prominent than others. It is placed near the Auberveil Basin, a small lake, and is traversed by Moussante River. Geographically it is situated in the center of the continent of Iseron, in the northern part of the Frauendorf Valley and at the border between Almeria and the Khentis Dynasty.
Sagemont is an autonomous city within the country of Almeria although it is still subject by laws and decrees issued by the Council of the Five Lords. It is ruled by the House of Rosenburg who hold various positions in the city's government. The head of the house and the official city ruler is the Grand Duke Gilbert of Sagemont who lives along with the rest of his family in the Brakenburgh Castle. The House of Rosenberg has ruled Sagemont for more than 500 years even during Khentis Dynasty’s occupation of the city which has ended in the year 141 of the third age. Since then, the house has tried to consolidate its power throughout the city and its neighborhoods with various degrees of success.
The political power of the Grand Duke is put in balance with Berthold Starmantle, the High Priest of Selûne, who is loved by the people. Selûne is considered the protector of the city and has a Grand Temple of Selune in the King’s Lane District. The two of them are in a power struggle for the dominance city as they try to undermine each other. The cold war between them has engulfed many guilds and factions to pick one side or the other.
The city is famous for the Rutherford Academy where they train various combat arts. The academy is a public independent organization but is influenced and loyal to the Royal House of Rosenburg who uses it in its affairs concerning protection and war. Duels are permitted within the city limits as long as witnesses are involved, and honor is valued above else in the city (even surpassing gold). As such many people will duel for their honor, some to their death, and others for competition and fame.
History
The city was founded by a group of fishermen who settled near Auberveil Basin in the fifth century of the first age (around 1.800 years ago)'. Quickly growing due to its strategic location being at the crossroads of the main trading routes, the city affirmed their prominence during the rise and expansion of the Pailenid Empire 300 years later, becoming one of the main exporters and trading partners within the empire. The city thrived in the empire becoming the City of the Kings in the third century of the second age. After the fall of the Pailenid Empire in the year 613 of the second age, the city has asserted their independence becoming a metropolis during a golden age when the city attracted numerous investors and businesses that flew the conflict and war that followed empire’s fall.
It was conquered in 822 of the second age by the Khentis Empire, a growing power of the continent, but has kept some of its autonomy. In the year 137 of the third age, after more 300 years of Khentis occupation, the city of Sagemont, along with few other Almerian cities, rebelled against the Khentis Dynasty and gained their independence after 4 years of fighting. Together they formed into an alliance they called the Almerian Alliance to protect themselves from future invasions.
Architectural style
Sagemont is mostly built-in gothic style architecture with most buildings made with stone having arches at doors and windows. The main streets are paved with cobblestone and lit with continual flame lanterns at night. Most areas are with 2 or 3 story buildings especially in residential areas. Several decorated small bridges cross the Moussante Canal whose banks are fully built with stone. Several grand temples are scattered around the city each having a different style.
The city has the royal castle (Brakenburgh Castle) which is walled up and composed of a square formation of wings with a courtyard in the center. Several wings are separate from the main castle building and hold residence for the family members.
Several other important buildings are also built in the gothic style with arches and stained-glass windows: The Royal Library, The Rutherford Academy, the high towers, Town Hall and several guild houses. Most residential buildings are made from stone with some exceptions of buildings in the Oldtown district that are made of wood.
Economy
Sagemont produces several resources but it is most famous by its manufacture of silverware and silver trading. It owns the Silver Mines located to the east of the city in the White Peak Mountains slopes. There are several major guilds and companies in the city involved in the silver industry and shops that sell jewelry and silverware.
Other than silver, the city is rich in farming and fishing that produce the food for the city and the surrounding settlements. Farms are mostly located in the northern parts of the city where several noble houses own farm fields. The biggest farm owner by far is the Havenglow family which also have their own walled estate outside of the city walls.
Sagemont, a vibrant city nestled in the midst of Silvercrown Passage, boasts cobbled streets and ornate architecture. People from all walks of life traverse its bustling markets and charming alleys.
Sagemont stands as a testament to grandeur and craftsmanship. Its skyline is dominated by towering spires, ancient cathedrals, and ornate bridges that span the reflective waters of the Moussante River. The city's architecture is a captivating blend of styles, reflecting centuries of culture and history. Elaborate gargoyles, intricate stained glass, and enchanting murals adorn its buildings, showcasing the talents of artisans from all corners of the realm.
Districts
Old Town
The Grand Market
Vibrant and lively, this bustling market offers a plethora of exotic goods, rare trinkets, and aromatic spices from lands afar. Traders haggle and storytellers captivate the crowd with tales of distant realms.
Ebonheart Guildhall
A gathering place for skilled adventurers and mercenaries, this guildhall offers quests, contracts, and training. The guild's emblem, a black heart on a field of silver, signifies both strength and cunning.
Enchanted Chalice Tavern
Known for its hearty meals and roaring fireplaces, this inn caters to travelers seeking respite. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a favorite among weary adventurers.
Ironhall Keep
It is a robust stone fortress nestled in the heart of the Old Town district in Sagemont. It stands as a stalwart guardian, with sturdy stone walls that have weathered the centuries. Its impressive facade is a testament to the city's dedication to law and order. Twin banners bearing the city's emblem, a radiant helmet, flutter proudly at the entrance.
Temple of Waukeen
The Temple of Waukeen is a place of commerce, prosperity, and the veneration of wealth and trade. This temple pays homage to the goddess of riches, bargains, and opportunity.
Artisan Consortium
Artisan Consortium in the Old Town district of Sagemont thrives as a haven for creativity and innovation, attracting patrons and visitors from across Sagemont who seek exceptional craftsmanship and magical artistry. The constant hum of creation, the vibrant colors of various materials, and the magical glow emanating from some workshops make the Consortium a captivating and lively district in the heart of Old Town.
Academy Hill
Rutherford Academy
Nestled within the enchanting, walled city of Sagemont, Rutherford Academy stands as a bastion of knowledge and martial prowess. The grand academy is a marvel of architecture, its towering spires and ancient stone walls echoing with the secrets of countless disciplines.