Saria

Overview

The city of Saria is located in north Lothen and is known for its premium horses, jewelry, and fine clothes. Up until a few centuries ago, it was considered a poor and cursed town because of the poisoned water of the river. The city’s luck changed with the finding of the mines to the west. Saria’s ground is flat and not very fertile and is divided into two parts by a river. The central area of Belve, with its stores and boathouses, is a cosmopolitan side of the city and attracts hundreds of people daily, offering luxurious options for entertainment.

Basic Information

Baron: Toris Ilian Sigil: Gauntlet Population: 10,000 Founding Date: 19 AC Army: 2,000

Powerful Houses

• House Ilian

• House Argar

• House Kalen

History

For much of its early existence, Saria was a struggling settlement plagued by misfortune. The river dividing the city, once thought to be its lifeline, was tainted with a slow-acting poison, sickening both people and livestock. Local legends spoke of a curse, and many avoided the region, dooming Saria to poverty and isolation. A turning point came a few centuries ago when rich mineral veins were discovered in the western hills. The newly established mines of Saria yielded not only iron and copper but also precious silver and gemstones, attracting investors, craftsmen, and merchants. The wealth from these resources funded large-scale water purification efforts, eventually restoring the river’s health and removing the long-standing stigma of the cursed city. With newfound prosperity, Saria invested heavily in breeding premium horses, utilizing the vast flatlands surrounding the city. Nobles and knights from across the land sought out its steeds, known for their speed and endurance. The influx of wealth also gave rise to luxury industries, including fine jewelry and exquisite clothing, making Saria a beacon of refinement in northern Lothen. The city’s heart, Belve, evolved into a thriving district known for its lavish storefronts, boathouses, and entertainment venues, drawing travelers and aristocrats alike.

The Pilgrims of Saria

After the Great War, as Saria grew from a modest river village into a thriving trading hub, it became a focal point for pilgrims devoted to the Final Light. These pilgrims, said to have encountered the Gods themselves in the war’s aftermath, carried divine blessings that drew countless followers. Inspired by their presence, the people of Saria aided in constructing a grand temple as a tribute. Named the First Temple for its sheer magnitude, it became a symbol of faith and a catalyst for the city’s rapid development, attracting thousands and accelerating Saria’s rise to prominence.

Location

Saria is located in the northwestern part of Lothen, in a vast region of fertile yet level terrain.

Theme

Saria is a thriving trading hub renowned for its wealth and exceptional horses. The city gained fame for its prestigious horse races, a spectacle that captivates nobles and commoners alike. These races have become a cornerstone of Saria’s identity, making it the heart of equestrian culture in Lothen. While tournaments held in other cities remain the kingdom’s most celebrated events, Saria’s races are a close second, drawing spectators and gamblers from across the realm.

Districts

• Belve – Belve is the name of the area along the riverbanks, where many stores, houses, and boathouses are located. The main market is also located there.

• North Saria – North Saria refers to the part of the city located north of the Roa River, where most of the high-class citizens reside.

• South Saria – South Saria refers to the part of the city located south of the Roa River, where the common folk primarily live.

Landmarks

1. The Bridge of Roa A stone bridge that divides the city into two separate parts over the river of Roa. Numerous stores have been built upon the bridge, mostly jewelry and clothing shops that are also of known quality to the realm.

2. The Grand Temple of the Final Light The largest temple of Lothen is located on the northern part of town. Dedicated to the deities of the Final Light, the impressive, giant construction is decorated with statues of all the gods of its pantheon in its interior. Its gate is covered with layers of gold and displays a representation of the three Knight Gods, Justar, Arkallis and Solisis.

3. The Ilian Castle The Castle of the city lord stands on the flat lands of Sarian, featuring two tall towers.

4. Sandlot A flat dry piece of land on the western part of the city where locals can train with their horses. Several illegal races are known to be hosted there as well.

Saria’s Stables

These fine quality stables are famous in the country. Their horses are considered to be of the best quality Lothen has to offer, eligible for tournament races and war as well. The horses are far more expensive in Saria than the rest of the cities of Lothen, due to their quality, but remain a knight’s first choice, especially near tournament times.

Assets

• The Centaur Inn – owned by Birdie Bay (Human, Male, 70)

• The Traveler General Store – owned by Josua Valvar (Human, Male, 43)

• Anelia’s Medicine – supreme healer Anelia Baran (Human, Female, 52)

• Saria’s Stables – owned by Dorian Maley (Human, Male, 60)

• Graham’s Armory Blacksmith – owned by Kaldan Graham (Human, Male, 48)

• Yellow Pages Library – owned by Arvel Otias (Medai, Male, 35)

• Lucky Blades Guild – owned by Akar Garrow (Human, Male, 42)

• Roa’s Reflection Alchemy – owned by Disan Amanos (Human, Male, 45)

• Amon’s Runes Enchanter – owned by Amon Destilas (Human, Male, 42)

• Miria’s Mystical Wares Arcane Store – owned by Miria Ilthena (Human, Female, 25)

Sarian Trade

Exports

• Horses

• Jewelry & Precious Metals

• Lumber & Building Materials

• Iron & Steel

Imports

• Grain & Livestock

Partners

• Enar

• Enis

• Narsia

Routes

• Lion Road

• Northroad

Sarian Authority

City Defenses

Wall

• Type: Stone Wall

• Gates: 4 (East, West, South, North)

• Gate Houses: 16

• Towers: 25 (2 attached to Ilian Castle)

• Classification: Medium walled city with castle

Siege Engines

• Trebuchet: 1

• Catapult: 1

• Ballista: 1

Standing Garrison

• Paladins: 30

• Archers: 30

• Pikemen: 20

• Cavaliers: 20

Notable Characters

Toris Ilian Baron of Saria. A man who is said to have fought a lot for his position. He is followed by a stained reputation that regards him as a ruthless political figure who is favored by the local temple.

Birdie Bay (“The Centaur”) Owner of the Centaur and the leader of several illegal operations in the city. A well-connected kingpin, Birdie collaborates with Dorian Maley to set up races in Saria.

Dorian Maley One of the wealthiest nobles of Lothen. Owner of luxurious mansions, tens of horses and some of the jewelry stores of the bridge. The Maley family owns a share of the diamond mines located near the city.

Jensen Peris Archpriest of Lothen. The High Priest of Lothen is responsible for its biggest temple which is located in Saria. The old priest is respected among the clerics and the knights and has devoted his whole life in the service of the Final Light. His name is also connected with powerful magic.

Garrick Valen Baronial Knight of Saria. A seasoned knight who has served the kingdom for over two decades. Known for his disciplined nature and no-nonsense attitude, Garrick has spent most of his career protecting the borders of Lothen, ensuring the safety of its citizens from marauders and occasional threats from neighboring regions.