Laneder
| settlement name | duchy | district/province | type | population | founding year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laneder ‡ | Kirvan | Principality of Laneder | town | 36,271 | 4380 |
Laneder lies in the Hills of Burin, along the Sovani River. Today it is a spectacular Royal City, as it is the residence of Prince Raimond and Princess Graece, and one of their three children, HRH Grifon Raimond-Kalder. It is also the hometown of the fabulous Dylan Diamond, the brilliant illusionist and entertainer. Lord Festus Tebald, younger son of the Duke of Barfor, also resides in the city.
Laneder is known as a military city, for its huge marble temple to Oohm, and for its numerous theatres and performance spaces.
Laneder is an old city, being founded by King Federic in 4380. For over 150 years, Laneder was little more than a village clustered around the massive Castle Laneder. Its primary purpose was to defend against the monstrous species that infest the Krethes Mountains and to prevent them spreading into the farming communities of eastern Kirvan. The Castle was not always home to royalty; there were times when ruling dukes or barons resided there. However, for the past century, it has been a royal household, and the city has grown rapidly.
Prince Raimond administers the Principality of Laneder, as Lord Laneder, although his Privy Council is largely tasked with these duties. The prince is a very practical and socially bold individual, and a skilled mage. His influence in Laneder, and across Kalderesh, is widely felt. Possibly because of his no-nonsense approach he is not very popular amongst the common folk, despite his many charitable deeds and other noble actions. Princess Graece, on the other hand, is very approachable and warm, and well-loved by the people.
As a royal city, peers, nobles and the aristocracy either live in Laneder or have homes here. The royal household has attracted a large entourage, some of whom live in Cresthall, a royal communal manor in the city, while others live and work in Laneder Castle.
The prince’s sorcerer, Grand Wizard Jaeremiah Glass, has a large complex on the castle grounds, as does his senior military advisor, known only as Raftman. The gladiator Daevo Ferryman is the Prince’s favourite, and has been city champion for many years.
HRH Grifon Raimond-Kalder, the Prince’s son and the King’s grandson, is an expert swordsman, and trains under Master Durnik, a member of the Circle of White Adepts.
Lord Festus Tebald, younger son of the Duke of Barfor, also resides in Laneder, and he built its huge marble temple in honour of Qidra. Lord Tebald is also a student of Durnik, and is close friends with HRH Grifon.
The city is managed by Lord Mayor Clayre Meadows, an able administrator and successful merchant. Grand Wizard Christophyr Vines works closely with the mayor to run the civil aspects of the city.
The Grand Temple of Sahir is the most impressive building within the city, and is headed by the Arch Priest His Holiness Josaeth Watters. The Saar Chief Priest Zachaery Glazier is an expert in chemistry, spices and perfumes, and has an extensive laboratory next to the temple. A flourishing Wizard’s Guild, closely associated with the Temple, is run by Master Arcane Levius Innes.
The Temple of D’Aad is overseen by High Priest Josayah Swords. Lord Wyaett Roasterman, a devout Razimite, oversees and supports a fane attached to the military compound.
Dylan Diamond’s glittering needle-like tower is a focal point of the city.
Major export trade items are textiles, pottery and furs. Impressive-looking guild halls dot the city. The Great Hall of the Guild of Clerks & Scribes shares an impressive building with the Small Hall of the Guild of Bookbinders & Papermakers. Many other guilds are well-represented; the most prominent are the Guild of Skinners & Tanners, the Guild of Stable Keepers, and the Guild of Clothing & Accessories.
A large military compound, supported by several paladins (including Alyce Broyles of the Order of the Red Talisman), dominates the western district of the city. Infantry and cavalry units are common sights in the city, and patrols regularly monitor the hostile lands surrounding the city. The Small Hall of the Guild of Armorers & Locksmiths is incorporated into the military complex.
The Horse's Lance is a city landmark, at the western gate. This meadery produces the much-liked drink famous throughout the city.