Jadehaven

Jadehaven in the distance.

Jadehaven is a coastal town situated in the southwestern territory of the Sultanate of Marhonja, perched atop the high rocky cliffs known as the Weeping Precipices. Overlooking the ocean of the Western Reach, the town enjoys breathtaking views of distant islands scattered along the horizon.

Jadehaven is the final destination of the famous Bladeway, a 200-mile-long road that stretches from the capital city of Marsk to the northern reaches of the Feral Highlands peninsula. The town is predominantly populated by Sun Elves but is also home to various minority races.

## Description

The town gets its name from the abundant jade deposits found within the cliffs and surrounding areas. The precious stone has been a source of prosperity for the town, and the local community has embraced the gemstone as a symbol of protection and good fortune. The town's emblem, a green sun with 8 spikes on a purple background, represents the jade stones and the Sun Elves' connection to the sun.

Jadehaven is renowned for its exquisite jade carvings, jewelry, and artifacts, which are highly sought after by collectors and nobles from across the lands. The skilled artisans of Jadehaven have built a reputation for their craftsmanship, making the town a hub for trade and commerce. Additionally, Jadehaven's strategic location on the Western Reach makes it an essential port for both the Sultanate of Marhonja and the greater Ammarid Empire.

Jadehaven is perched atop the Weeping Precipices, high rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean of the Western Reach. The town is situated within the Feral Highlands peninsula, characterized by its rugged terrain, brown forests, and winding rivers. To the north of Jadehaven lies the vast expanse of the Feral Highlands, filled with wild and untamed wilderness, inhabited by various mythical creatures and natural spirits. The climate is temperate with mild winters and warm summers, and the region is prone to occasional storms and earthquakes.

### Background

Before the establishment of Jadehaven, the Weeping Precipices were revered by the Sun Elves as a sacred site, where they believed their ancestors' spirits would watch over the sea and guide travelers safely across the Western Reach. The town was founded when early settlers discovered the valuable jade deposits and recognized the site's potential for trade and commerce.

The decision to settle in this region was also influenced by the naturally defensible position offered by the high cliffs. The founders believed that the combination of the Sun Elves' ancestral connection to the area, the protection provided by the jade, and the strategic location would ensure prosperity and security for their new settlement. As the town grew, its reputation as a haven for jade and craftsmanship spread far and wide, attracting skilled artisans and traders from across the continent of Armonia.

Before the arrival of the Sun Elves, the region was a wild and untamed wilderness, inhabited by various mythical creatures and natural spirits. Some legends suggest that the jade deposits were originally created by a powerful earth spirit, which still resides within the heart of the Weeping Precipices, watching over the town and its people.

### Architectural Style

Jadehaven's architectural style is an enchanting blend of nature-inspired design and traditional craftsmanship. The town is known for its harmonious integration with the surrounding environment, creating a seamless transition between the natural landscape and the built structures.

Buildings in Jadehaven are predominantly constructed using locally sourced materials such as wood, stone, and clay. The wood is often carved with intricate patterns and motifs that draw inspiration from the local flora and fauna, infusing the structures with a sense of organic beauty. Stone is used for foundations, walls, and decorative elements, showcasing the skill of the town's stonemasons.

Roofs are typically steeply pitched and covered with wooden shingles or thatch, designed to efficiently shed rainwater and withstand the elements. Large, overhanging eaves protect the buildings from the sun and rain, while also adding a sense of elegance and grace to the structures.

Jadehaven's buildings often feature large, arched windows that let in an abundance of natural light, creating bright and airy interiors. Stained glass windows are also common, displaying vibrant colors and intricate designs that further contribute to the town's charm.

Public spaces such as squares and parks are adorned with lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures, reflecting the community's appreciation for art and nature. Meandering cobblestone streets and pathways connect the various neighborhoods, lined with charming homes, shops, and public buildings.

Overall, Jadehaven's architectural style reflects a deep respect for the environment and a strong connection to the town's history and traditions. This unique blend of nature and craftsmanship creates a serene, inviting atmosphere that has captured the hearts of both residents and visitors alike.

## History

### Chronology

**342 BH** - The Founding of Jadehaven: A group of Sun Elf settlers led by explorer Althariel Dawnstrider discovered the Weeping Precipices and the abundant jade deposits. The settlement of Jadehaven was established and soon attracted more Sun Elves and other races.

**15 BH** - The Great Jade Rush: News of Jadehaven's jade deposits spread across Armonia, leading to an influx of treasure seekers and miners from across the continent. The town's population and economy boomed as a result.

**0 AH** - The Harmony Treaty: Representatives from major factions across Armonia signed a landmark treaty, marking the beginning of a new era of peace and cooperation. Jadehaven, as a center of trade and diplomacy, played a significant role in facilitating the negotiations.

**478 AH** - The Construction of the Bladeway: To further enhance trade and connectivity, the Bladeway was built, connecting the capital city of Marsk to Jadehaven. This marked the beginning of a golden age for the town.

**801 AH** - The Jadehaven Academy: To preserve and promote the town's rich history of craftsmanship and artisan skills, the Jadehaven Academy was established. The academy became a renowned institution across Armonia, attracting aspiring artisans from far and wide.

**907 AH** - The Ammarid Invasion: The Ammarids invaded the Sultanate of Marhonja, leading to a series of fierce battles along the coastline. Jadehaven's strategic location made it a key target, but the town's high cliffs and strong defenses kept it from falling.

**913 AH** - The Tribute Agreement: The Ammarids and the Sultanate of Marhonja reached an agreement, making Marhonja a tributary kingdom. Jadehaven was required to pay regular tributes to the Ammarid Empire, which included a portion of their jade production.

**1103 AH** - The Great Quake: A massive earthquake struck the Feral Highlands, causing significant damage to Jadehaven's infrastructure and destabilizing some of the Weeping Precipices. The town came together to rebuild, and the natural defenses were reinforced.

**1305 AH** - The Festival of Light: Jadehaven hosted its first annual Festival of Light, a week-long celebration of the Sun Elves' connection to the sun, featuring dazzling light displays, dancing, and feasting. The festival quickly became a popular event on the Armonian calendar.

**1425 AH** - The Jade Alliance: In response to growing threats and instability in the region, the town of Jadehaven formed the Jade Alliance with neighboring coastal towns and cities of southern islands of Dax, Peca, Lea and Holton. The alliance was created to ensure mutual protection and to foster closer economic and diplomatic ties.

## Trade

### Imports

**Grains and foodstuff**s: As a coastal town with limited arable land, Jadehaven relies on imports of grains and other food products to sustain its population.

**Textiles and clothing**: The town imports a variety of textiles, such as silk and wool, as well as finished clothing items to cater to its diverse population.

**Iron and steel**: For the crafting of weapons, armor, and tools, Jadehaven imports raw materials like iron and steel.

**Luxury goods**: As a prosperous trade hub, Jadehaven imports various luxury items like spices, exotic woods, and fine wines to meet the demands of its affluent citizens and visitors.

**Magical components**: Given the importance of magic and the worship of Elmena, Jadehaven imports various magical components and reagents necessary for the practices of its arcane artisans and scholars.

### Exports

**Jade**: As the town's namesake and primary source of wealth, Jadehaven exports its prized jade in various forms, from raw stones to expertly crafted jewelry and artifacts.

**Artisan crafts**: The talented artisans of Jadehaven produce a variety of high-quality crafts, such as pottery, metalwork, and textiles, which are in high demand across Armonia.

**Seafood**: With its prime location along the Western Reach, Jadehaven exports a variety of fresh and preserved seafood to inland cities and towns.

**Ships and maritime supplies**: Skilled shipwrights in Jadehaven construct sturdy and reliable vessels, which are then exported to other coastal settlements, along with maritime supplies such as ropes, sails, and navigational instruments.

**Enchanted items**: Owing to the town's deep connection to the Exemplars Elmena and Adanos, Jadehaven exports a variety of enchanted items imbued with magical properties, such as amulets, rings, and wands.

## Landmarks

**The Jade Sanctum**: A majestic temple dedicated to the Exemplars Elmena and Adanos, the Jade Sanctum serves as the spiritual center of Jadehaven. The temple is adorned with jade carvings, crystal mosaics, and intricate murals depicting the town's history and its connection to the Exemplars. It is a place of worship, reflection, and learning for the inhabitants of Jadehaven.

**Weeping Precipices**: The iconic high rocky cliffs upon which Jadehaven is built, the Weeping Precipices offer stunning views of the Western Reach and the distant islands. These natural formations not only provide the town with a strategic vantage point but also serve as a symbol of the town's resilience and determination.

**Jadehaven Academy**: Established to preserve and promote the town's rich history of craftsmanship and artisan skills, the Jadehaven Academy is an architectural marvel and an important center of learning. The academy attracts aspiring artisans and scholars from across Armonia, contributing to the town's reputation as a hub of artistic excellence and innovation.

**The Bladeway Terminus**: As the southern endpoint of the famous Bladeway, the Terminus is an impressive structure and a symbol of Jadehaven's connectivity to the rest of the Sultanate of Marhonja. The Terminus houses a bustling marketplace where traders from across the continent gather to exchange goods, making it an important center of commerce.

**The Stormheart Shipyard**: One of the largest shipyards in Jadehaven, the Stormheart Shipyard is a testament to the town's maritime prowess and its long-standing connection to the sea. Owned by the influential House Stormheart, the shipyard is responsible for constructing many of the town's finest vessels and contributing to its thriving maritime trade.

## Culture

### Customs & Traditions

As a town with deep connections to the Exemplars, many of Jadehaven's customs and traditions revolve around the worship of Elmena and Adanos. The people of Jadehaven celebrate their Exemplars through various festivals and ceremonies, such as the Festival of Light, a week-long celebration of the Sun Elves' connection to the sun. It is also customary for the residents to pay homage to the Exemplars during significant life events, such as births, weddings, and funerals.

### Superstitions

The people of Jadehaven hold several superstitions related to the sea and the Weeping Precipices. Some believe that the spirits of the fallen warriors watch over the town from the cliffs, while others think that the jade deposits possess magical properties that protect the town from harm.

### Leisure and Entertainment

Being a coastal town, many leisure activities in Jadehaven revolve around the sea. Sailing, swimming, and fishing are popular pastimes among the townsfolk. The town also boasts a thriving arts scene, with local theaters staging performances and musicians playing in the town square. Additionally, storytellers often share tales of Jadehaven's legendary heroes and the town's rich history, passing these stories down through generations.

### Sports

Competitive sports in Jadehaven are typically focused on displays of agility, strength, and strategy. Races along the Weeping Precipices, archery contests, and mock naval battles are popular among the townsfolk. The town also hosts an annual competition at the Jadehaven Academy, where artisans and craftsmen showcase their skills and compete for recognition.

### Education

Education in Jadehaven is highly valued, with the Jadehaven Academy serving as the town's center of learning. The academy offers courses in various disciplines, including craftsmanship, enchanting, and maritime skills, attracting students from all over Armonia. In addition to the academy, smaller schools and tutors provide basic education to the younger members of the community.

### Public Services

Jadehaven's public services reflect its commitment to maintaining a thriving and well-organized town. The local government, led by the Viceroy of Jade, ensures that essential services like healthcare, sanitation, and public safety are well-maintained. The town's Marshal, the Sentinel of the Cliffs, oversees the security and defense of the town, while skilled healers, both mundane and magical, provide healthcare services to the residents. The town also boasts a well-maintained network of roads and public spaces, which contributes to its reputation as a prosperous and welcoming settlement.

## Organizations

**Order of Resonance** - This group of skilled Echomancers has a presence in Jadehaven, where they operate covertly or openly, using their abilities to gather intelligence or support the local government in maintaining peace and order.

**Radiant Crusaders** - As a holy order of knights who worship the sun exemplar Innos, the Radiant Crusaders has a presence in Jadehaven, given the town's strong connection to the Exemplars. They operate openly or secretly, working to defend the town and spread the teachings of Innos.

**Circle of the Verdant Path** - This secretive group with a mystical connection to the natural world find Jadehaven's coastal and forested surroundings appealing. They operate in the shadows, protecting the local environment and ensuring the balance of nature is maintained.

**Troubadours' Guild** - With Jadehaven's thriving arts scene and the presence of the Jadehaven Academy, the Troubadours' Guild operate openly in the town, contributing to the local music and poetry culture, and offering support and guidance to aspiring bards.

**The Iron Legion** - As a group of battle-hardened warriors, the Iron Legion has a presence in Jadehaven, where they offer their services as mercenaries or bodyguards. They operate openly, providing security for the town's merchant ships, or covertly, serving as a hidden force to protect the town from external threats.

## Landmarks & Establishments

**The Jade Sanctum**: A majestic temple dedicated to the Exemplars Elmena and Adanos, the Jade Sanctum serves as the spiritual center of Jadehaven. The temple is adorned with jade carvings, crystal mosaics, and intricate murals depicting the town's history and its connection to the Exemplars. It is a place of worship, reflection, and learning for the inhabitants of Jadehaven.

**Weeping Precipices**: The iconic high rocky cliffs upon which Jadehaven is built, the Weeping Precipices offer stunning views of the Western Reach and the distant islands. These natural formations not only provide the town with a strategic vantage point but also serve as a symbol of the town's resilience and determination.

**Jadehaven Academy**: Established to preserve and promote the town's rich history of craftsmanship and artisan skills, the Jadehaven Academy is an architectural marvel and an important center of learning. The academy attracts aspiring artisans and scholars from across Armonia, contributing to the town's reputation as a hub of artistic excellence and innovation.

**The Bladeway Terminus**: As the southern endpoint of the famous Bladeway, the Terminus is an impressive structure and a symbol of Jadehaven's connectivity to the rest of the Sultanate of Marhonja. The Terminus houses a bustling marketplace where traders from across the continent gather to exchange goods, making it an important center of commerce.

**The Stormheart Shipyard**: One of the largest shipyards in Jadehaven, the Stormheart Shipyard is a testament to the town's maritime prowess and its long-standing connection to the sea. Owned by the influential House Stormheart, the shipyard is responsible for constructing many of the town's finest vessels and contributing to its thriving maritime trade.

**The Verdant Nook**: This popular inn and tavern is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious, locally-sourced cuisine. The inn offers comfortable accommodations for visitors, while the tavern is a favorite gathering place for both locals and travelers, offering a wide selection of ales, wines, and spirits.

**The Emerald Gallery**: A renowned art gallery that showcases works from local artists and artisans, as well as pieces from other regions of Armonia. The gallery is dedicated to promoting and supporting the local arts community, hosting regular exhibitions, workshops, and events.

**The Jadehaven Library**: This impressive library houses an extensive collection of books, scrolls, and manuscripts, making it a valuable resource for scholars and researchers. It also hosts educational programs, lectures, and workshops, fostering a love of learning and intellectual curiosity within the community.

**The Market Square**: A bustling hub of commerce and trade, the Market Square is where local farmers, artisans, and merchants gather to sell their goods. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of high-quality products, making it a must-visit destination for residents and visitors alike.

**The Whispersong Academy**: This prestigious institution offers education in various fields, including music, art, literature, and magic. The academy is known for its talented faculty and rigorous curriculum, attracting students from across Armonia who aspire to develop their skills and knowledge. The

**Crystal Glade**: A serene and tranquil park located in the heart of Jadehaven, the Crystal Glade is known for its beautiful gardens, walking paths, and crystal-clear pond. The park is a favorite spot for relaxation, picnics, and leisurely strolls, allowing residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the town's natural beauty.

## Law & Order

In Jadehaven, law and order are maintained through a combination of formal institutions and informal social norms. The primary bodies responsible for maintaining peace and enforcing the law in the town are as follows:

**Town Guard**: The Town Guard is the primary force responsible for maintaining order in Jadehaven. They patrol the streets, investigate crimes, and apprehend criminals. The Town Guard is under the authority of the Town Council and is led by a Captain of the Guard, who is appointed by the council members.

**Town Council**: The Town Council is the ruling body of Jadehaven, responsible for creating and enforcing laws and regulations. The council consists of representatives from various factions and influential families in the town. They meet regularly to discuss and vote on matters concerning the town's governance and well-being. The council also has the power to appoint judges and magistrates to handle legal disputes and adjudicate criminal cases.

**Magistrates and Judges**: Legal disputes and criminal cases in Jadehaven are presided over by magistrates and judges appointed by the Town Council. They are responsible for interpreting and applying the law, hearing evidence, and passing judgments in both civil and criminal matters.

**Local Factions**: While not formally part of the legal system, the various factions present in Jadehaven contribute to maintaining law and order. These factions, such as the The Iron Legion or Radiant Crusaders, often have their own codes of conduct and internal disciplinary measures. They may also cooperate with the Town Guard or the Council in certain situations, such as providing information or assisting with investigations.

**Community Watch**: Some neighborhoods in Jadehaven have established community watch groups, where residents volunteer to patrol their neighborhoods and report any suspicious activity to the Town Guard. This informal system helps to deter crime and maintain a sense of safety among residents.

The combination of these formal and informal systems creates a stable and secure environment for the residents of Jadehaven. However, tensions between the various factions and the ongoing conflicts within the community can occasionally challenge the effectiveness of these systems, requiring cooperation and diplomacy to maintain peace and order.

## Symbol

A green sun with 8 spikes on a purple background, represents the jade stones and the Sun Elves' connection to the sun.

## Legendary Heroes

**Althariel Dawnstrider**: The legendary explorer and founder of Jadehaven, Althariel led the group of Sun Elf settlers who discovered the Weeping Precipices and the abundant jade deposits. His determination and vision laid the foundation for the thriving town that Jadehaven is today.

**Elyria Moonshadow**: A renowned Sun Elf mage and a disciple of Elmena, Elyria played a crucial role in protecting Jadehaven during the Ammarid Invasion. Her magical prowess and strategic thinking helped the town withstand the onslaught and maintain its defenses.

**Kaldris Stormheart**: A skilled sailor and navigator, Kaldris was instrumental in expanding Jadehaven's maritime trade and establishing important trade routes across the Western Reach. His daring voyages earned him a place among the town's most celebrated heroes.

**Naraeth Ironforge**: An exceptionally talented blacksmith, Naraeth was known for crafting some of the finest weapons and armor in all of Armonia. Many of Jadehaven's most legendary warriors have wielded items forged by Naraeth in their battles, earning him a lasting legacy in the town's history.

**Lysandria Lightbringer**: A cleric of Adanos, Lysandria was a beacon of hope during the Great Quake. She led the efforts to heal the injured, rebuild the town, and reinforce the Weeping Precipices, becoming a symbol of resilience and compassion for the people of Jadehaven.

## Notable Noble Households

**House Dawnstrider**: Descendants of Althariel Dawnstrider, the founder of Jadehaven, House Dawnstrider is one of the most influential families in the town. They are known for their involvement in trade and exploration, as well as their strong ties to the Viceroyalty.

**House Sunshaper**: With a lineage of skilled diplomats and negotiators, House Sunshaper has played a significant role in Jadehaven's political landscape. Their current scion, Elthariel Sunshaper, serves as the Viceroy of Jade.

**House Swiftwind**: House Swiftwind boasts a proud military tradition and has produced many skilled warriors and strategists, including the current Sentinel of the Cliffs, Lyrinara Swiftwind. Their influence in Jadehaven's defense and security is unmatched.

**House Moonshadow**: Known for their arcane knowledge and devotion to the Exemplar Elmena, House Moonshadow has produced many skilled mages and enchanters. Their magical prowess has contributed to Jadehaven's prosperity and reputation for enchanted items.

**House Stormheart**: Descendants of the legendary sailor Kaldris Stormheart, House Stormheart has a strong connection to the sea and the maritime trade that sustains Jadehaven. They own and operate many of the town's shipyards and are influential figures in the town's naval affairs.