On the bank of the Etasch River, Etabrück is a diplomatic crossroads standing proudly as a beacon of cultural amalgamation, right in between the two great nations of Terros and the Crimson Empire. It is across the river from the crimson city of Alverona.

At its southern border lies the iconic fortress known as the Arxbrück, a bridgefort (brückenburg) that spans the width of the Etasch River. The main road connecting two nations, it is one of the oldest castles on the continent, having been built in the first era by the Omniborn Temporal Empire.

Streets wind gracefully through the city, a mosaic of half-timbered houses reminiscent of Terrosi craftsmanship alongside ornate villas and palazzos adorned with intricate frescoes in true Alveronan style. Etabrück's markets are a sensory delight, where traders from far and wide barter for goods unique to this crossroads of cultures.

At the heart of the city stands the Hugberto Opera House, a wonder where melodious harmonies blend Alveronan arias with the rich timbres of Terrosi compositions.

The city played an important role through the history of the entire continent, as the city had power over nearly every army's crossing of the river. It was ruled for generations by House Etaburg, who even controlled all of Zietaria for a duration. They were eventually undermined and deposed by the drow of House Gaten, who've held the city for a few centuries now.

Intriguing alleys and hidden passages reveal subtle traces of Drow influence on the city after the past few centuries of House Gaten's power. Elegant archways and intricate murals in shadowy corners hint at an underground neighborhood within the city.

The Riversong Resonance is a watery winter festival held in the city of Etabrück in the early days of the 12th month of Varkosi. It involves a floating market on the Etasch River, with boats and stalls showcasing an array of goods from nearby regions and abroad. Visitors explore and indulge in unique wares, local delicacies, and exotic items from distant lands. Colorful lanterns and floating lights adorn the waterfront, creating a radiant spectacle after sunset. Acrobats, dancers, and musicians perform on the riverfront, with ice skating being one of the major events on the river itself. While Etabrück never gets cold enough for snow or ice, much of the river is frozen using magic for these festivities. The festival culminates in a grand orchestral performance held on a specially constructed floating stage in the middle of the river.

Areas of the city include:

(Art credit: Unknown)

Arxbrück. A colossal structure spanning the width of the Etasch river, the bridgefort was built by the Temporal Empire in the first era. The city then grew around this massive structure slowly as it became a major tollway. It is said that its support structures are made out of starmetal from meteorites, such as Arkaan. This seemingly gives the bridgefort its magical strength it needs to withstand the floods of the great river. It was famous as the center of power for House Etaburg in the late second era through their rise and fall. Currently, it is the seat of House Gaten. The bridgefort is considered to be one of the Eight Wonders of the World.

Highriver. A richer upper class district situtated on the north-end of the bridgefort. Most of the nobles of the city make their homes here.

(Art credit: Andries Scheerboom)

Glockenplatz. The main market district of the city and one of the most iconic parts of the city. It is situated on the northern edge of the city, and is the most influenced by Terrosi culture. Some locations of interest include:

• The Etabrück branch of the Department of Dungeons.

• Gothwynfort, a small fortified building operated by the Knights of Gothwyn.

(Art credit: Laurens Spruit)

Whiteway. The center of the city and influenced by both cultures is this middle-class district. It holds some of the most iconic locations within the city other than the bridgefort, such as:

• The Hugberto Opera House of Etabrück, which is the largest building in the city barring Arxbrück. The Opera House is famous across the world, and is the centerpoint of culture here.

• Saint Otwin's Cathedral, the largest temple to Jakuna within the Great Kingdom of Terros. The Lawkeeper holds an extreme importance in the hearts of Etabrück, as the Etasch River is named after her as well as the city itself.

(Art credit: BergionStyle)

New Mukuyl. Unofficially sanctioned by House Gaten, many drow refugees from the city of Mukuyl in the Underdark excavated a cave system under Whiteway and Highriver where they now make their homes. This small underground district is also home to a black market that deals in all sorts of shady goods.

(Art credit: ZhuoLin Yang)

Rivafiorita. The district that's on the banks of the river, under the bridgefort. It has the most Alveronan influence in its culture, and has a major fishing and trade community.

Orktown. A shanty town outside the northern walls of the city, famously populated by many orcs.