Cordax Cross

### Overview

The Capital of Malthoria, Cordax Cross is situated in the northern region of Calonear. Often referred to as simply 'Cordax' or 'The Cross', it is one of the oldest cites on the island and home to a population of approximately 82,000.This mainly consists of humans, however it is not uncommon to see Dwarfs, Elves & Half Elves, Half Orcs and Gnomes living their daily lives within the city walls. However it is not often that Halflings make there home in the city.

### History

 Cordax Cross was built some time late in the 1st age of Astron, between 1245 and 1324, but the exact date is unknown. What is known however is that it was built as a safe haven for all travelers, from the ancient creatures that used to walk the islands of Malthoria. Over time the city grew and the huge stone walls that surrounded the once humble town, became the bounders for the busy city streets.

In 459 of the 2nd age, the city went to war with Winsford. The main cause of this was that Wisford was then under rule by King Berg 't*he ice*'Skarfson, who although seen as a great champion by his people, wanted to concur all of Malthoria. However he fell at the first herald and his forces were defeated by the king of Cordax Cross, Ivan IV.

In 526 of the 3rd Age the living distinct of Cordax Cross was hit with an outbreak of plague. The cause was hugely debate and although some believe it was a warning from the gods in response to the Kings men pushing their research too far, most agreed that it was a direct result of the lax polices of who can enter and make their home in the city's walls. As a result of this an undercurrent of prejudice tension has stood in the city ever since and for many who lost their families, this attitude is presented openly.

### The Great Library

The Great Library is situated in the heart of the city and is the biggest library in all of Malthoria. With its centerpiece being a spherical orb that is said to hold all the knowledge in the universe, the library attracts many visitors from all over, however it is only under special appointment from high ruling that anyone can enter the main chamber where the orb is situated.

The library is run by a strange race of sentient mice known as Squeakers. These librarians are only found within the library's walls and can not leave. It is not known where these creatures come from however they insist on telling anyone who asks that they are as old as the library itself. There have been incidences of people trying to remove the Squeakers from the building, much to their dislike, however when the Squeaker is removed both the librarian and the remover disappear into a cloud of thick purple smoke, with what has been described as the smell of mango.

### The Market District

Famous throughout Malthoria, the bustling markets of Cordax Cross is *the* place to find what or whom you are looking for. The market is made up of over 800 stalls which stock an array of items including foreign silks, pickled fetuses, wooden toys, livestock, jewellery, maps, spyglasses and of course an array of magic items, among other things.

The Market itself weaves its way around the city in such a manor that it is easy to get yourself lost in, however it is often said, as in the old Malthorian proverb, '*In the markets of cordax, you may find only what you seek when you have lost yourself* '.

### The Cordax Palace

In the north of the city, the palace sits tall on the skyline. Built out of beautiful white marble, the whole building is surrounded by a huge wall and heavily guarded. This is is the palace of King Tytos & and Queen Caitlyn, rulers of all Malthoria.

### Cordax Tunnels

The complex tunnel system under Cordax Cross, is home to many secrets and dangers. Although at present there is no direct threat from those who dwell under the streets of Cordax, who can tell if this will remain.