I did ask before posting this as I was very uncertain about doing so but..... my
little essay for you to read and giggle over (as I am sure there are plenty of errors in it!)
Apologies for the length of the tome but I got a bit carried away
I wanted to write something that would help a new citizen without giving too much away.
Thakria – The City of Miracles
As seen through the eyes of a new citizen.
Mighty Thakria, a place of power and excellence. A city that expects much of its loyal citizens but endows them with great rewards and power.
Thakria can be, and often is, a confusing, bustling metropolis, filled with powerful figures who dominate politics and trade with the strides of giants. A new citizen can feel rather small and insignificant as they stand in Thakria’s main square and watch the traders hawking their wares and the myriad citizens going about their daily, and frequently nightly, activities. However, no young Thakrian is alone for long as a member of the Institute, situated on Moonstone Crescent, will soon take them by their trembling hand and lead them through their first bewildered steps as a citizen of Avalon’s greatest city.
Learning a little of Thakria’s illustrious history becomes a necessary part of life. Do they not say that knowledge is power? And power, above all things, is the way of Thakria. Why else would the vengeful Goddess, Xanthe, bless the city with her patronage? Many times, throughout the ages, has Thakria sallied forth, from her position in the North West of the lands, with her armies dealing destruction to the great enemies of Mercinae and Springdale. Allied with the vicious population of Goblin Town, Thakria places herself in an unassailable position and forces her enemies to submit, usually with a great deal of cruel and unusual punishment that said enemies will not soon forget. The cheers of the victorious ring down through the years to remind those who would consider bringing battle to Thakria that such a course is folly of the highest order.
One cannot help but wonder what Trekker the Sorcerer would think, standing now before the Sorcerers Guild, which he founded. Would he be as proud of Thakria today as he was when he was the first mortal to enter its rebuilt streets and gaze upon its magnificent buildings? Does Genesis, God of Time, smile quietly when surveying this site of might and majesty, remembering the time when it was simply a fishing village upon the edge of Moonstone Lake and recall the shipwreck of Count Agemmenion here, the start of Thakria’s true rise to dominance? Do Orthwein, Nostradamus and Lazarus look down from their lofty positions upon Olympus and fondly recall their days as humble citizens, Snowlock, Blodwyn and Shaitan, some of the most notorious, powerful and revered persons to have ever walked Thakrian avenues.
Ah, the avenues. Who is not humbled a little when they walk Kings Avenue and see the honour paid to the heroes of the Divine War, Mavramon, Alsace, Morichella and Yellian-Ze?
Perhaps it is simpler for one new to the city to walk its streets and see the wonders for themselves. Would you care to take my arm and walk with me now? Very well then, let us revel in the glories of the City of Miracles.
We stand before the impressive Gate to Thakria, with its triumphant depiction of victory over Mercinae, a recurring theme throughout history. Passing within we see the flag topped watchtowers and are likely to be greeted by Crown-Prince Hecritor, an imposing and intimidating presence heralding those we may yet find within the city. Moving on, passing barrows of yet further great men, we come to the northern end of The Avenue of Kings, feeling a little insignificant under the weight of such might and majesty. Treading the black-paved streets we may find our feet drawn to the welcoming bustle of The Red Rose Tavern. A drop of spirits to bolster ours perchance? No doubt, Mercy will smile as we step up to the bar.
But come, there is yet more to see and time is ever fleeing. Back on the Avenue we pause to gaze upon the tomb of Emperor Pitus, thronged with worshipers as is common. Did he truly unite the entirety of Avalon? Perhaps that is a tale for discovery in the future as we must hurry on. Upon reaching the northern end of the avenue we are greeted with the rushing populace and a shop that will soon become familiar to young Thakrians, Dalgar’s, The Pawnbroker. But do not be distracted by the constant stream of eager questers selling their loot, only follow me to the south east and behold Salt Street.
It is easy to become lost in the further reaches of the city but gems, literal and figurative, may be found in such places. A locked gate to the south west prevents your progress and you will find many such throughout the city. Their purpose? It is not for me to say and for you to discover on your journey. To the east is a small forge and it will serve you well to note where you may purchase GOODS for who can tell when a well made weapon or piece of armour will safeguard you from sudden attack. But fear not. For this while, you are safe to wander.
To the southeast, following the scent of roses, we come to a junction and are faced with the decision as to whether we should venture into the darker alleys or follow Salt Street to the northwest. Come, this is Thakria after all and danger is of no concern to us. To the south east we are faced with another junction and you may note objects lying around as you walk these streets. Of those, I will say no more but do investigate for yourself. Despite the dingy alleyways and general air of menace you will find your wandering course rewarded should you head west but for now, we will take the eastern way. Perhaps it is best we do not attempt the footbridge for there are greater wonders to be discovered to the northeast.
The tower rises high above and dwarfs those who dare to stand at its base but we will not tarry, only returning to the junction and hurrying on relieved feet towards the northern regions of Salt Street. An impressive home lies to the west but good manners prevent us trespassing on a mere whim, at least while others watch us. Who knows what might be found within when shadows hide our actions? Onwards yet, to the bridge on Emerald Avenue. Why Emerald? My friend, you have but to look upon the waters flowing below or to the stones beneath your feet. The houses above are more substantial leading one to wonder if the Barons of the city have their residences in these parts. For young Thakrians the sight of palatial mansions and gleaming palaces can only stir envy and spur their desire to attain such wealth for themselves.
The Barons? Ah, forgive me. In my ardent desire to show you the wonders of transcendent Thakria I have neglected to tell you enough of its people. As with all great cities that have risen to dominance, Thakria has a strong government and a Princess, Narissa, who is both famous and infamous. As is usual in such cases, the Barons were appointed to varying ministries but I get ahead of myself. Come; let us find a quiet place where I may explain the niceties of Thakria’s political structure.
Crossing the bridge to the east we stumble across the square of the First Emperor. Perhaps the inn to the northwest will offer us a quiet nook to rest our weary feet but I think we should continue along the Road of the Ancients to the east. It is tempting to linger by the bakers, close to the East gate, with its delicious aromas but we require a more peaceful location. Let us head northeast and rest on the banks of the River Leithe. Surveying the east wall gives some idea of how well the city is prepared for attack should any be so foolish as to attempt such folly.
cont
