Arbos

The city-state of Arbos, located on the northern coast of Illian Bay, is a marvel of innovation and industry in a region steeped in tradition. It is the most technologically advanced city-state in the bay, known for its mastery of metal refining, advanced magic, and its unique system of governance: a technocracy.

Geography

Once nestled amidst a great forest of towering trees, the city of Arbos has since transformed into an industrial powerhouse. The vast majority of the once-mighty forest in the region has been felled to make way for towering factories, workshops, and laboratories. Arbos' strategic coastal location not only ensures access to trade routes but also supports the city's extensive metal refineries, which rely on the nearby ore-rich foothills.

The city is divided into several distinct districts:

• The Court of Stars: The centermost district of the city, housing the Council of Technocrats and the Spire of Progress, where the greatest scholars and technologists work to develop advanced technologies. Many projects within the Spire are classified as state secrets and kept under heavy guard. It is rumored that the Arbosian Steam Engine was developed and tested here long before its existence was known to the public.
• The Foundry District: This is the industrial heart of Arbos, dominated by massive refineries, factories, and the sprawling workshops where metal is shaped into marvels. The air here is thick with the scents of industry and the sounds of heavy machinery.
• The Scholar's Quarter: Home to some of the city's brightest minds, this district boasts impressive libraries, research facilities, and academies. This is where engineers, alchemists, and inventors come together to push the boundaries of what's possible.
• The Steamworks: In this district, steam engines power everything from transportation to machinery. It's a network of hissing pipes and brass gears, and the air is tinged with the smell of magic and steam.
• The Grand Marketplace: A great bazaar with goods from across Illian Bay and beyond. It's often said that "if you can't find it in the Grand Bazaar, you'll need someone from the Spire of Progress to dream it up!"

Economy

Arbos' economy is a mix of metal, magic, and steam technology. The city is renowned for its expertise in metal refining, producing high-quality alloys that are in high demand throughout Illian Bay. This expertise is the bedrock upon which Arbos' technological advancements are built.

Additionally, Arbos leads the way in technological innovation. They produce and sell a range of cutting-edge technologies, including:

• Black Powder: A potent explosive used in various applications, from weaponry to construction.
• Spell Crystals: Highly sought after, these crystals capture and store magical energy, making them invaluable for spellcasters and commonfolk alike.
• Steam Engines: Arbos is at the forefront of steam-powered technology, with steam engines being used in various industries, such as smelting and transportation.

Governance

The city is governed by a technocracy, where leaders are selected based on their technological expertise. Arbos values innovation and intellectual achievement above all else. The city's Council of Technocrats oversees decision-making, and each council member is an expert in their respective field, whether it be engineering, alchemy, or magical research.

History

Arbos was once home to a great forest of colossal trees, which provided both resources and protection. However, the city's unquenchable thirst for industry led to the near complete deforestation of the area. The city's name, which means "city of trees" in an ancient dialect, stands as a poignant reminder of this ecological transformation.

Culture

Arbos is a city of progress and invention. The people of Arbos celebrate innovation, with annual festivals dedicated to the latest technological achievements. The citizens take great pride in their city's reputation for mastering both the natural and magical sciences.

The city is also a hub of knowledge and education, attracting scholars, alchemists, and inventors from far and wide. The Scholar's Quarter hosts numerous debates, lectures, and scholarly conferences with people from across the Illian Bay.

Notable Technologies

• The Arbosian Steam Engine: The crowning achievement of Arbosian engineering, this device burns wood to heat water and create steam, which is harnessed for various purposes, depending on its use.
• The Elemental Forge: A legendary facility said to be capable of harnessing the power of the elements to forge powerful magical artifacts.