In Astria, where shadows stretch long beneath the watchful gaze of the Stark family, the stories of the past influence the choices of the present, and the future hangs in the balance.
Astria City, one of the largest cities in the country of Pyronis, is uniquely situated on Emberglace, a vast island shaped by the forces of nature and time. This island, one of the two largest landmasses in the region, is a land of contrasts and power, housing two monumental cities that serve as its lifeblood. To the south of the island lies Cryostria City, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Cryothorn Heights, while Astria City rises in the north, just beyond the ancient expanse of Pyronis Forest.
Astria itself is ruled by the beloved Stark Royal Family, a lineage that has shaped the island's history for centuries. Perched on the northern edge of a vast cliff, Astria stands as both a fortress and a beacon of power, its towering walls shielding it from the untamed wilds beyond. The winds that sweep across the cliff carry the scent of pine and damp earth from the dense forests surrounding the town, and the distant roar of the Silvervein River, which cuts through the valley below, serves as a constant reminder of the natural forces that surround this bastion of civilization.
Nestled between two mountain ranges, Astria's black stone walls, quarried from the very mountains that guard its borders, form a perfect hexagon around the city. These walls are wide enough for entire battalions to march along their tops, and they are outfitted with watchtowers where guards keep constant vigil. Beyond the northern wall, the land plunges into a steep cliff that meets the swift, deep waters of the Silvervein River—a natural moat that has protected the city from invaders for centuries. On the southern and western sides, the thick Pyronis Forest sprawls, its ancient trees whispering in the wind, full of mysteries and dangers that only the bravest dare to explore.
Within these formidable walls, Astria is a city of contrasts—both a place of rigid order and vibrant life. At its heart lies the Stark Royal Castle, perched on a high, rocky hill, towering over the city like a sentinel. The castle's many spires, built from pale gray stone, rise above the dark walls, and its high windows gleam in the sunlight. The Astral Tower, the tallest of the spires, is a symbol of the Stark family's ancient lineage, said to house relics and tomes of lost knowledge. The people of Astria often look to this tower for guidance, believing it to be a beacon of hope in times of need.
The town itself is divided into districts, each with its character and purpose. In the center lies the bustling Market District, where the cobbled streets are alive with activity. Merchants from all corners of Pyronis and beyond come here to sell their wares—exotic spices from the southern deserts, fine silks and tapestries from the eastern kingdoms, rare gemstones and metals mined from the nearby mountains, and even mystical artifacts rumored to hold ancient powers. The market is a maze of stalls, tents, and small shops, where the scent of roasting meats mingles with the aroma of herbs and incense, and the chatter of bargaining fills the air. Street performers and musicians entertain the crowds, while pickpockets move stealthily through the throng.
Beyond the market, Astria's Craft District hums with industry. Blacksmiths hammer away at anvils, creating weapons, armor, and tools, while skilled artisans craft intricate jewelry, fine pottery, and masterful works of art. The sounds of forges and workshops blend together, creating a constant hum of productivity that can be heard throughout the city. This district is the lifeblood of Astria's economy, providing goods not only for the city's own use but for trade with neighboring regions.
Closer to the castle lies the Noble Quarter, a stark contrast to the bustling, chaotic markets. Here, grand estates with manicured gardens and tall, elegant mansions line the wide avenues. The noble families of Astria, many of whom have served the Stark family for generations, live in these opulent homes, surrounded by wealth and luxury. Carriages drawn by fine horses move quietly through the streets, and the people here speak in hushed tones of politics, court intrigues, and alliances.
In contrast, on the outer edges of Astria, near the imposing city walls, lies the Commoner's District. This part of the city is a maze of narrow alleyways and stacked houses, where families of craftsmen, laborers, and farmers live in close quarters.
While life here is more modest, there is a strong sense of community. Children play in the streets, neighbors share food and drink, and taverns are filled with songs and stories at the end of the day.
It is here, in the Commoner's District, where K.J. Sharpe, the commoner with a partly deaf ear, resides. Despite the hardships, there is a sense of resilience among the common folk, a belief that through hard work and loyalty to the Stark family, they too can find a better future.
