Nova Caledon

==Description==
This city-state sprawls for miles along the southern coasts of Cyrillia, boasting a massive population and status as the beating heart of the Aralian civilization. The city is the birthplace of Aralian culture, and is well-renowned for their production of fine art and luxury goods. Having a reputation across the planes as a haven for artists and artisans of all stripes, this sprawling metropolis stretches for miles across a fertile bayside valley, and is supported by countless acres of farmland in the surrounding river delta.
A network of connected boroughs and neighborhoods provide housing and commercial space for the middle-class artisans and servile laborer caste. These neighborhoods each feature a central square where poets gather at cafes, musicians ply their trade in public forum, and theater takes place on well-maintained stages. The citizens of Nova Caledon find their solace from the working day in these hubs, and many live to make their mark on them, aspiring to rise out of the segregated outer districts of the city into the noble districts within the Carnelian Gates.
Inside the inner circle of the Carnelian Gates lies the source of Nova Caledon's magnificent reputation. Awe-inspiring landscapes of opulence and cascading arrays of grandiose buildings adorn the city's center, complete with manors, colleges, opera houses, and concert halls. Private residences open to host public displays of artistic innovation, pristine neighborhoods are patrolled by the ever-courteous Carnelian Host, and the undercurrent of ruthless political intrigue can almost be forgotten amidst the magnificent splendor.
==History==
Founded by the Archmage Cassandra Aralie during the mid Age of Orcs, Nova Caledon has a rich tradition of bardic magic, boasting numerous schools to train up-and-coming musicians, performers, and artists. Many of these schools follow the traditions laid down by their beloved founder, who herself was a Bard of legend.
At sunrise on the city's one-hundred-and-first year and first day, Cassandra Aralie disappeared in a spectacular arcane explosion at her manse in the city center. That very evening at sunset, a beautiful and powerful spirit appeared before the people of Nova Caledon at their hastily-assembled funerary festival in the ruins of the city center. She claimed to be a manifestation of the city and its people; a gestalt spirit of ambition and inspiration, matron to the creative artisan. The Lady-in-Rose had appeared before her beloved, chosen people, and her appearance set Nova Caledon on the course to become the planar capital of high art and renowned craftsmanship that it is today.
The title Aralian was adopted in honor of the late Cassandra Aralie, whom this newly-found Goddess neither confirmed nor denied she had been. In the past certain factions preferred to the moniker "Caledonians" or "New Caledonians", but modern uses of these terms are associated with disgruntled secular or misotheist groups. These insurrectionists plot rebellion against the ruling caste of Nova Caledon, as well as the downfall of the Goddess that condones their slaving ways.
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"Life in Arcadia wasn't easy, what with the Orcs and then the Fiends. King Gregor and the Archmage Cass had the right idea. Gregor took his people across the seas, but instead of crossing an ocean, Old Cass took hers across the planes."
— Anton Tethier, Dual-Citizen of Dis and Nova Caledon, prompted to speak about its history
==Notable People==
===Melchior Battagli ===
The Principate and overseer of the College at Sedicce, the city's most prestigious university of the arts. No mere collection of students and professors, the College serves to bring together the best and brightest of Nova Caledon under the careful direction of its Principate. Maestro Battagli knows exactly which soprano would be best for that aria, the composer most suited to write sorrowful music into a poet's elegy, and which tailor could fix your unspeakable ensemble. If there is anyone who knows anyone, it is because they were introduced by the Principate.
===Catrina Leon===
The Maestra responsible for preserving the unity between Nova Caledon's ruling caste. Maestra Leona is the first among equals in matters of law and arbitration, a position which she wields with patience, prudence, and cunning. The way she speaks is considered by many to be a form of art, and she has attracted a cult of devoted attendants to aid her in her duties as the Consiglatore.
===Adam Pavarost===
In the face of rebellious rabble, soul-stealing sailors, and the protection of a city-state from itself, Maestro Pavarost is constantly on the move, lending an excited hunger to his features. As Commandant of the Carnelian Host, he is sworn to protect Nova Caledon from every danger, a duty to which he takes sanguine pleasure. Born from Netheran immigrants and having claimed his title by means of a duel to the death, Maestro Pavarost commands the Aralian military with an iron fist, a velvet blade, and an overwhelming dash of style.
==Notable Locations==
===Carnelian Gates===
Towering ornate walls encircle the inner districts of Nova Caledon, separating the common castes of Operada, Artagiani, and Protetteri from the noble castes of the Creatori and Maestri. Patrolled by the brutal elite of the Carnelian Host, constructed by the first Aralian settlers, and spell-woven by the Archmage Cassandra Aralie herself, this monument reminds every soul in Nova Caledon of their place. High or low. In or out. Ruler or ruled.
===Il Crogiolo===
This stage was discovered after the Lady-in-Rose first appeared during Nova Caledon's one-hundred-and-first year. Its location changes depending on the performance, appearing atop a spire under a starry sky or carved from the stones beneath the city itself. When Il Crogiolo, the Crucible, appears, a calling is sent. Nova Caledon must select the most perfect artist, devoted performer, and immaculate work of art, and present them before the Lady of Caledon. The stage disappears after the performance is finished, but the audiences of each performance swear Il Grogiolo was the most perfect is has ever been.
===Palace of Lilac and Gold===
Category:Settlements