The Dome

location_on Location

Deepest Point of the Posian Trench

globe_asia Type

Stronghold

cottage Capital

Atlas

holiday_village Largest City

Atlas

language Languages

Latin

send_moneyCommerce

Exports: Figs, Deep Sea Fish, Various Dome Goods

Imports: Fish, Herbs, Wittled Goods

Currency: Dracm

atr Factions Active

Domelanders

circles Political Alignment

Electorate-Led with Elder Custodianship

blur_circular Population Density

Moderate

thermostat Temperature

Winters:
Mild and wet, occasional frost.
Fahrenheit: Likely in the range of 45°F to 55°F
Celsius: Approximately 7°C to 13°C

Summers:
Hot and dry, with some coastal breezes.
Fahrenheit: Usually around 80°F to 95°F
Celsius: Roughly 27°C to 35°C

pets Common Livestock and pets

Livestock: Deer, Pheasants, Bees
Pets: Wolves
Rarely: hunting birds, rats, boars, songbirds, hares, and tortoises

emoji_nature Prominent Species

Mammals: Red Deer, Roe Deer, Boar, (European) Bison, Fox, Badger, Hedgehog, Otter, Hare, Rat, Weasel, Stoat, Grey Squirrel
Birds: Buzzard, Red Kite, Falcon, Barn Owl, Common Pheasant, Skylark, Nightingale, Robin, Starling, Sparrow
Fish: Salmon, Trout, Pike, Perch, Carp, Tuna, Mackerel
Reptiles and Amphibians: Frog, Common Toad, Grass Snake, Adder (Viper), Tortoise


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Livestock

Deer
Deer predominantly serve as dairy livestock within the Dome but also offer their utility in other ways. Notably, larger stags frequently pull carts and assist with transportation. These versatile creatures can be seen grazing in meadows or within farm boundaries. Stabled stags are especially common, with many rexals emphasizing the deep bonds they share with these animals.

Pheasant
Pheasants serve as the rexalian equivalent to chickens and are primarily kept in communal flocks. These larger-than-average birds enjoy the freedom to wander through farmlands and even roam the urban areas. Identifiable by the ribbons tied around their feet, they're easy to trace back to their respective farms. While not particularly tame due to their wandering habits, they reliably return to their nesting places come nightfall. Their larger size also translates to more abundant egg production.

Bees
In the biodiverse world of the Dome, bees hold a special status as the most prized insects. These honey-bees are about the size of real-world hornets and can be found in both wild habitats and cultivated apiaries. While their role in pollinating Rexalia's lush flora is invaluable, they're most cherished for their sumptuous honey. This golden nectar serves dual purposes: it's not only a culinary delight but also a key ingredient in medicinal remedies, making it indispensable to both chefs and healers.

The practice of beekeeping has therefore become a widespread vocation among rexals. The complexity of their apiaries can vary, ranging from natural tree hollows to crafted clay pots, and even more sophisticated framed beehives akin to modern designs.

Pets

Wolves
Retaining their imposing, wolf-like physique while evolving to exhibit dog-like behavior, these majestic canines are more than just pets in the Dome. They come in a stunning array of colors, and rexals take particular pride in companions that sport unique or vibrant coats. While deeply loved and well-cared for, these wolves are far from just decorative. They're invaluable helpers in deer herding and are keen enough to retrieve stray pheasants for their owners.

Rather than being leashed, these wolves often wear intricately designed collars as symbols of their special bond with their rexal caregivers. These decorative collars serve less as restraints and more as expressions of the deep affection and esteem in which they're held.

Other
Although rexals here predominantly favor the company of wolves or deer, there are outliers in the choice of companions. A rare few rexals have taken to taming hunting birds, a feat regarded as highly impressive within their community. Even less common are those who opt for more unconventional companions like rats, boars, or songbirds, making these unique pets a true curiosity.

Common Prey

Although rexals are naturally equipped with sturdy claws and formidable teeth, they tend to prefer more nuanced hunting methods when pursuing their prey. Deer, boar, and occasionally rabbits find themselves the subjects of rexal hunts. To capture these creatures, rexals commonly employ bows and arrows, hunting knives, or snares, favoring skill and strategy over raw power.

travel_explore Notable Geographical Features

Waterfalls:
Spectacular waterfalls that cascade over a series of terraced rocks, filling natural pools below. The falls serve as a source of fresh water and as a popular gathering spot.
Olive Tree Orchards:
Expansive orchards filled with olive trees that provide a crucial food source and shade. These become bustling social spots during the olive harvest season.
Grasslands:
Wide-open plains covered in lush grasses and occasional wildflowers. These areas are commonly used for grazing livestock and host various community activities.
The River Cor:
A winding, expansive river that serves as the lifeblood of the dome. This river is the primary source of fresh water and its banks are often bustling with activity, from fishing to social gatherings.

account_balance Government & Law Enforcement

In the Dome, law and order are maintained through a multi-tiered system. At the grassroots level, elected neighborhood 'guardians of peace' handle small disputes and minor incidents, serving as the eyes and ears of the community. These individuals, often well-respected and known for their wisdom, are voted into the position by their neighbors.

For situations that require more than mediation, the Dome has a well-trained cadre of Rex soldiers. These elite individuals are skilled in both magical and martial arts, capable of swift and effective action in the face of more severe problems. When not engaged in external security measures, they serve as the higher level of law enforcement within the Dome, tackling significant conflicts and threats that peacekeepers can't manage.

The ultimate authority in the Dome generally rests in the hands of elected leaders. These rex are chosen for their wisdom and leadership qualities and are responsible for overseeing all aspects of governance, including law enforcement. The Elders, though not usually involved in daily governance, hold the highest form of authority. Should they choose to intervene, their word overrides that of any other rex, making them the ultimate arbiters within the Dome.

hive The Elders

The Elders, revered and enigmatic figures, are a unique collective bound by a shared hivemind that allows them to communicate and make decisions seamlessly. This incredible unity amplifies their unparalleled magical prowess, which remains active even in their frequent states of restful slumber. They reside deep within a complex temple designed as a magical labyrinth, a sanctuary only they can navigate. Most of their time is spent sleeping within the labyrinth's hidden chambers, which serve as centers for their meditative practices and magical activities.

Even while asleep, their magical abilities continue to function, controlling the most intricate aspects of life in the Dome: the weather patterns, temperature, and even the magical boundaries that both protect and limit their world. Through their collective will, they maintain a harmonious balance within the Dome, ensuring that the population remains sustainable. They achieve this by casting a spell that inhibits the ability of rexals to lay eggs, lifting it only during specific periods deemed appropriate.

Most Elders prefer the seclusion of their labyrinthine sanctuary, their rare appearances in the outside world becoming exceptionally noteworthy events. One of the few who ventures out is Canto, responsible for the Orbitas and the magical eggs, a role requiring more interaction with the general populace.

Though generally elusive, some Elders can be consulted or even spoken to under rare and specific circumstances. Such interactions are considered great honors for any rexal fortunate enough to experience them. Their subtle yet profound influence, whether active or passive, shapes the ethical and magical contours of the Dome, making them the cornerstone of rexal civilization.


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...going Outside.

While the Elders rarely involve themselves in matters like laws and regulations, their sentiments do sometimes become known. For example, they've expressed a subtle disapproval of the ongoing trade between the Dome and the Posian Islands. This isn't shared as a formal decree, but rather in passing comments when they surface for other important matters. The sentiment isn't that this trade is illegal, but that the Elders prefer less interaction with those who have chosen to live outside the Dome's ideal environment. Curiously, whenever they do mention the world outside, it's often tinged more with concern than outright disapproval.

donut_small Economic System

The Dome's economic structure is an intricate blend of agriculture, fishing, and specialized skills only rexals possess. Farmers diligently work the land to grow a variety of staple crops, contributing to the food security of the community. Fishermen venture into the mysterious depths of the Posian Trench to bring back an array of sea creatures, further diversifying the diet and commerce of the Dome. Artisans and smiths, highly respected in rexal society, utilize their talents to produce both practical and aesthetic items, from utensils to intricate carvings. This creates a vibrant craft scene that stimulates local and inter-island trade. Merchants, although not officially recognized, play a pivotal role as they bridge the gap between the Dome and the Posian Islands, transporting a multitude of goods back and forth.

Local marketplaces act as buzzing epicenters for trade and social interaction, where rexals haggle, barter, and forge new partnerships. Currency in the form of Dracm facilitates these transactions, simplifying trade and maintaining a level of economic stability.

Common Professions in this Area

  • Fishermen: Specialized in catching fish for food and trade.
  • Herbologists: Experts in identifying and utilizing plants and herbs.
  • Craftsmen: Makers of various goods, from household items to intricate jewelry.
  • Masons: Skilled in stonework, responsible for maintaining and building structures.
  • Farmers: Tend to crops and livestock, supplying food and other resources.
  • Beekeepers: Custodians of bees, producing honey for food and medicine.
  • Traders/Merchants: Handle the commerce between the different areas of the dome.
  • Healers: Specialized in traditional medicine and remedies.
  • Scholars: Keepers of knowledge and wisdom.
  • Artists: Contributing to the cultural richness through various art forms.
  • Hunters: Skilled in capturing game for food and materials.
  • Elected Officials: Rexals chosen to manage various aspects of Dome governance.
  • Soldiers/Protectors: Trained to enforce laws and ensure the Dome's safety.
  • Smiths: Skilled in metalwork, producing tools, weapons, and other goods.

history_edu Historical Significance

The Dome has served as the primary habitat for rexals for an estimated 600 to 900 years. Though no concrete records of the early years exist, it's widely accepted that the Elders were the first inhabitants. They used their magic to create the rexal population, effectively colonizing the space. Interestingly, the Dome was already equipped with existing structures and objects upon the arrival of the rexals, the origins of which are still unknown.

While the architects and initial purpose of the Dome remain unidentified, it has since developed into the central living space for rexals. Over the centuries, the community has grown and adapted the Dome into a functioning society with its own set of customs, professions, and governance systems. As it stands, the Dome continues to be the epicenter of rexal civilization, though its full history remains partially concealed.

spa The Dome: A Paragon of Perfection

In the Dome, the concept of challenges or threats simply doesn't apply. The Elders' influence ensures a flawless environment for all rexals. Food, housing, water, and security are not mere amenities but assured facets of daily life. The Dome is the pinnacle of rexal existence, and living here is unequivocally the best experience one can have.

A Harmoniously Balanced Environment

The Dome enjoys a flawlessly regulated climate and a celestial cycle that promotes well-being for every rexal.

  • Bountiful Harvests: Eternal cycle of abundance.
  • Custom-Tailored Climate: Divine weather regulation.
  • Day-Night Equilibrium: Perfectly balanced celestial mechanics.

Social Unity: A Communal Dream Realized

From artisans to farmers, all rexals contribute to a societal symphony in a state of mutual respect and cooperation.

  • Harmonious Relationships: Mutual respect among all.
  • Perfect Governance: Flawless decision-making.

Prosperous Economy: Flawless Design

With a well-oiled trade machine and skilled craftsrexals, the Dome's economy stands as a testament to what can be achieved under ideal circumstances.

  • Trade Mastery: Seamless operation within the walls of the dome.
  • Artisanal Excellence: Unparalleled works of functional art.

hourglass_empty Time Period

The temporal setting within the Dome closely mirrors the socio-cultural attributes of 30 BC Hellenistic Greece, subtly accented with Roman elements. Within this framework, academia thrives as a central pillar, supported by expansive libraries and pedagogical institutions dedicated to the classical disciplines of rhetoric and logic. As one observes the urban landscape, the prevalence of public art becomes evident, transforming even the most quotidian spaces into arenas of aesthetic engagement.

In the realm of performing arts, music and theater ascend beyond mere recreational activities to achieve professional status, commanding the rapt attention of the citizenry. The political milieu within the Dome is particularly active and resonates with the civic governance models historically associated with ancient polities. Assemblies and councils, convening to discuss a range of topics from territorial governance to mercantile regulations, constitute the core of the Dome's civic engagement.

hub Connection to Other Areas

The Dome, a haven of stability and order, stands in stark contrast to other areas, most notably the Posian Islands. Although the journey to these islands requires a short voyage by ship, they serve as the primary trading partner for the Dome, supplying unique goods and curiosities not found in its meticulously controlled environment. This trading agreement is not official, though, and avoided talking about. Many dome rexals disapprove of it.

Despite their geographical proximity, the Dome and the Posian Islands differ widely in culture and traditions, making interactions between them a complex exchange and adaptation. While the Elders remain tight-lipped about their opinions on this connection, it's clear they observe the dealings and shifts that occur outside their realm with a cautious eye.

The magical fog that once isolated the Dome is receding, leaving many to ponder the existence of other lands or civilizations that might one day be revealed. Yet, for now, the Dome remains the irrefutable center of rexal society, with its connections to other areas providing intriguing yet cautiously explored pathways for the future.

The Dome



The Dome is the home of the majority of the rexal population, situated deep underwater along one of the edges of the Posian Trench, conveniently located above a rift from which a freshwater spring flows. This river rises up along one edge of the dome and proceeds to meander across its length. Centrally located and, of course, also along the banks of the river within this Dome is its capital city, Atlas.

This is a large and highly populated area, with many upper-class rex calling it home. This is the political center of the Dome, and many within its walls would be so bold as to consider it the center of their entire world. It echoes the height of the Roman Republic in styling, with plastered roads that carriages pulled by deer traverse, lined with bathhouses and temples, open-air marketplaces, and billboards painted with advertisements. Scattered among these are temples with a focus on healing and many buildings of multiple levels that are split into individual domiciles for rex and their families. The city of Atlas is densely populated, and many of its needed supplies to feed and clothe such a population are provided by the multitude of smaller village settlements and individual farming steads scattered around the Dome.

Indeed, it is these rex who have often chosen a more agrarian lifestyle who provide much of what is needed to make Atlas what it is. These individual farmsteads typically include a building that is often built on two levels and has multiple rooms on each floor. Some smaller steads have one of these rooms function as a holding pen for their herd animals, while other larger estates often have separate outbuildings for their animals. It is quite common for one or several families to live in these farmhouses, tending to the land and the animals, which not only feed them but also create the crops and goods that are then taken to market in a village or the city of Atlas to be sold. Merchants and artisans will also often take up domiciles near or even on these farmsteads as a way to have close access to the supplies they need to create their own crafts (such as tanned hides, cotton, or wool to make clothing or canvas).

One might think that with so many rexal farming the land, it would be nothing but pastures, but as the Elders regulate the population of the Dome to prevent a scenario of too many rexals and not enough food, one will often find that rather large tracts of land have been left to lie fallow as rexals move around to clear other fields or have simply never been cleared from their natural state, which resembles the countrysides of Greece or Italy. Forests of aspen, pine, or fir are common in the higher plateaus and mountainous valleys and cling to sheer cliffs. There is snow almost constantly on the very upper ranges of the highest mountain peaks. In lower elevations, often closer to the main river and sparkling clear waters of lakes dotted across the land, species like olives, poplars, cypress, and oaks are more readily spotted. Despite existing within their own microcosm of the Dome, there is a rather large variety of landscapes as well as flora and fauna that is found within the Dome for rexals to explore at their leisure.



Significant NPCs

Click the NPCs to open or close their info.





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Brenandus NPC Profile for the Dome

Basic Details

Name: Brenandus Drakontas

Age: 179


Information:

Brenandus, or "Bren" as some dare to call him when he's not within earshot, is the man behind the Dome's kennels. He's the go-to expert for training and caring for the wolves that rexals depend on for various tasks.


Role-Specific Information

Occupation:

Master of the Kennels

Responsibilities:

Manages the main kennels, responsible for the training and well-being of wolves in the Dome, advises rexals on wolf care.

Popular Opinion:

Viewed as intimidating but deeply respected for his expertise. Rumors about his softer side circulate, though no one speaks of it openly.

Personal Interests:

Fond of classical plays, often seen at the old Amphitheatre either training wolves or enjoying a performance. Has a discreet love for poetry that he keeps under wraps.

Aspasia NPC Profile for the Dome

Basic Details

Name: Aspasia Thallo

Age: 285


Information:

Aspasia, or "Aspa" as she's lovingly called by those who frequent her garden, is an elderly rexal who has been a fixture in Atlas for years. She's best known for her lush garden and her fondness for storytelling.


Role-Specific Information

Occupation:

Storyteller and Gardener

Responsibilities:

Maintains her garden in the heart of Atlas and offers a welcoming space for anyone willing to listen to her stories.

Popular Opinion:

Universally loved and respected. Seen as a source of wisdom and emotional comfort. Her garden is considered a sanctuary by many.

Personal Interests:

Loves collecting seeds and storytelling. Has an affinity for traditional Dome music and is known to hum along while tending to her garden.



Atlas

Imagine stepping into a city that serves as the beating heart of the Dome, a place where culture, commerce, and magic converge in an exquisite blend. Atlas, with its grand architecture, is a city that exudes an aura of ageless wisdom and enchanting mystery.

As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'd be greeted by marketplaces bustling with activity. Here, vendors peddle fruits from Tyrasae, intricate pottery, and fine linens. The city is a labyrinth of grand plazas and secluded courtyards, each infused with a different shade of magic—marked by the halos of various hues floating above the heads of rexals who pass by.




For more information about Atlas, why not visit its own page?

Atlas

Tyrasae

Location: Northeastern region of the Dome



Notable Geographic Features


  • High clay content soil: Found to generate some of the most appealing flavors in wine.
  • Rolling hills: Minimal sharp cliff faces found, these rolling hills are well tended and easy to traverse.
  • Shrublands cleared for agriculture: With relatively narrow bands of woods for wind breaks to prevent the precious grapevines from being damaged during storms.


Economic System:
Tyrasae is a well developed argircultural zone, with long term crops that are tended from year to year instead of entire fields being tilled and resown each year. Their crops are primarily fruit based, focusing heavily on grapes although apples are also grown in the region. Smaller plots are dedicated to growing other vegetables however most grain is imported, as are many meat products. The Tyrasae natives often consume a smaller amount of meat than other Dome inhabitants, with a large portion of their diet being composed of fruits. However don’t take this to assume they are vegan, they consume meat happily along side a fine glass of wine.
Pottery:
Due to the large amounts of clay deposits, especially along the hillsides near the river banks, many artisans who craft pottery and vases have taken up residence in Tyrasae to allow them to be able to have closer acces to the materials they use to make their art. This pottery is often quite elaborate in painting and sculpted detail, and is exported all over the Dome. Tyrasian pottery is nearly a mandatory staple of any well off citizen of Atlas.
Historical Signifgance:
Tyrasae was one of the first cities to be settled in the Dome outside of Atlas. There is much debate about whether the first grapevines were carried here by the first rexals who ventured to this area, or if there had always been grapes growing in this region. Either way, grapes dominate the pastoral scenery, and measures are constantly being taken to chase off unwanted deer and boar that would like to raid the orchards for a sweet meal.




dangerous

Threats/Challenges

The inhabitants of Tyrasae do not concern themselves with the threat of war. Their largest concerns are about how they are going to move their product to Atlas and other cities amongst the Dome for sale, and what levels of taxation are to be expected of them this year.
  • Environmental struggle: The threat of deer, boar and smaller vermin destroying the delicate crops or the grapevines themselves is a constant threat. Rexals commonly spend time going through the orchard rows looking for unwelcome trespassers. Falconry is likely most commonly participated in Tyrasae, to help keep the precious orchards free of vermin.
  • Economic struggles: Tyrasae prides itself on being sufficiently separated from Atlas, but in truth without the capitol city’s patronage, their economy would collapse.
  • Specialization: Has caused the region to excel in their grape and wine production. However it has come at the cost of leaving them lacking skilled workers in sufficient volume in many other trades.
  • Ever evolving tastes: What the market demands in a wine may change from year to year as things move in and out of fashion, but the vineyards themselves are not so quick to adapt to growing more full bodied or sweeter wines depending upon the whimsy of the population this year. What is to be done with excess that isn’t selling?
  • The new kids on the block: South of Tyrasae over the cliffs, Zeiatria, a new contender has been creating a different alcoholic drink made with…. Grains? What a terrible thought. And yet, a small but growing number of rexals are imbibing in this new beverage. Tyrasae sees this as direct competition, and is seeking any means possible to remove this possible threat to the stranglehold they currently have on the drink industry, including petitioning Atlas to pass legislature to outlaw this abhorrent new concoction which surely must be dangerous.


hub

Connection to other areas

Recently trade with the Posian islands has become more common. Tyrasae, being situated closer to the border wall of the Dome than Atlas, has seen a fair amount of traders passing through its paved roads. But the question has become, how much should these traveling merchants be taxed for passing through the region? And do they pose a threat to the business of Tyrasae with the other Dome cities?

Common Travel Routes