Viborg of the Cities Three
Viborg, one of the Cities Three, is a city with a rich history and a resilient spirit. Originally founded in the year 1340 AS during the First Age, it started as a modest township under the dominion of Kerei Akir, the Highlord Gray Lord of Balance. Over the course of two centuries, it gradually grew from a shanty encampment into a thriving township.
Viborg holds significant importance as the birthplace of notable figures. Hallanam Ekkhard, who founded the holy order bearing his name, constructed a magnificent cathedral dedicated to the essence of Vi, embodying the spirit of remembrance and healing. Theron Bhaird, revered Arch Master of the Arts and lieutenant of the Gray Lord, hailed from Viborg and rose to prominence during the Time of the Shattering as the leader of the Hallowed Champions.
The Saldís Family, including the esteemed holy woman Veyla Saldís, played a significant role in the city's history. Veyla Saldís, known as the Mourning Lady of Healing and Head Matron of the Order of Ekkhard, was born into this family and later married Theron Bhaird. Other notable individuals such as Laurel the Seeker of Shadows and Alexander the Laughing Rogue also emerged from Viborg, serving the people and defending their interests.
Tragedy struck Viborg during the Time of the Shattering when the explosive destruction of Mount Anaias devastated the historic township. The town was left in ruins, its population greatly diminished, and the surviving families burdened with deep emotional wounds. Lord Ataxis's forces further ravaged the city, launching invasions that inflicted additional casualties and reduced buildings to smoking ruins.
Despite the devastation, the survivors, with support from neighboring communities, rebuilt Viborg upon the ruins of the old township. In the year 14 DD, the city reclaimed its lost heritage and began a new era of growth that continued over the next three centuries.
Geography
Viborg's layout follows a radial spoke pattern, centered around the Grand Fountain dedicated to the essence of Vi. This central monument serves as a symbol of remembrance and healing and also pays homage to the old township. The city is divided into eight districts, each fulfilling a specific function to support the community and its infrastructure.
North Avenue hosts various small businesses, including costermongers, florists, clothiers, antiquarians, alchemists, and herbalists. The bustling street-side stalls and business fronts are complemented by the Communal District on the western side of North Avenue, where vendors and their families reside. The avenue also serves as a connection to Sentinel's Fortitude, leading into the foothills of Hlavor Zana and the surrounding Cornerstone Fens.
The Hostel District, located across Northwest Avenue, caters to transient visitors, dignitaries, and business owners, offering a range of accommodations such as inns and hostels. Western Avenue, one of the main thoroughfares, leads to the Grand Fountain. Across Western Avenue lies the Healers District, housing clinics and care facilities dedicated to the well-being of the community and its visitors. Livestock and caravans entering from the plains on the Dustgate Road find their entry through Southwestern Avenue.
The Cityward District, adjacent to the Healers District, serves as the administrative hub for the city and the governing body overseeing the entire region of the Cities Three. Southern Avenue acts as the main artery for the Forge District, where skilled smiths and woodworkers ply their trades. The Forge District is bordered by Southeastern Avenue, which marks the boundary of the Artisan District. In the Artisan District, artisans specializing in pottery, sculpture, fabrication, and other crafts create and sell their wares.
Eastern Avenue directs traffic to the Trades District, which accommodates business ventures of the Rautavarasto and Kupari, contracting services for goods and personnel. Northeastern Avenue is flanked by the Mourning District and Lighted District, both managed by the Order of Ekkhard. The Mourning District serves as the resting place for the deceased, providing spaces for individuals and families to pay their respects. The Lighted District serves as the headquarters for the Order of Ekkhard, responsible for maintaining various aspects of the city, offering aid to the destitute, and overseeing the holy tributes and statues spread throughout Viborg.