Barbarus
Rifts and Rivets
The City
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The Ever-changing City
The City, made up primrily of the Human and Shadow Realms, is constantly shifting and changing, both in terms of who is in control of their various districts and domains, as well as their physical makeup. As new groups seize power, the areas seem to change and shift to match their new rulers. With technology, magic and myth mixing together, these places are all unique, and can range from a more standard cyberpunk neighbourhood full of neon and dark alleys, to rural areas of forest and castles, or even magical spaces that defy the laws of physics.
Below are a few examples of some of the locations that can be found within The City.
The Sabati District
The Sabati District is a technological marvel, with multiple levels of streets and buildings stretching high into the sky. Ruled by an ever-changing conglomeration of the most profitable companies in the district, many people live and work amongst it's bustling blocks. Crime here is low, with the ruling group providing security and prosperity to those who live there, providing they pull their weight. Many others from around the city travel here, in hopes of making it big and living in a (relatively) more secure part of The City.


The Rhenstock District
In Contract to Sabati, the Rhenstock District favours more magical advances over technology, and although still densely packed and made up of skyscrapers, the people here prefer a more relaxed way of living, with communal decision making and an appetite for experimenting with new rituals and artefacts over constant work. A large lake sits in the middle of the district, and many small artificial islands have been created as spaces to experiment with more risky magics, and although many people have tried to take control, the community has always ensured they don't stay in power for long.
Borlatti Forest
A much more rural part of The City, Borlatti forest is comprised of multiple settlements interspersed by large swathes of thick forest and winding rivers. Recently, many have been flocking to the area to escape the cramped lifestyle, leading to rapid growth in the settlements, as well as many grand manor houses being established. A mysterious group of undead werewolves inhabit the woods, led by a powerful woodland goddess and utilising devestating nature magic. The clash between this group and the residents has caused both the settlements and manors to create powerful technological defences, and the struggle between city and forest is constant.


Olympus/The Olympian District
Olympus and the Olympian District are mountainous areas in the Shadow and Human Realm respectively, linked by a great portal at the highest peak of each realm. The area is a battleground between the Greek and Roman Gods, who both seek control of the area. Both sides have taken losses; the Greek Gods have been forced to recruit heroes of legends into their ranks to replace fallen deities, whilst the Roman Gods have downloaded themselves into powerful robotic bodies. The war is brutal, and is seen by many as a war between technology and magic.
Yeork's Castletown
Once the Norse domain of Jotunheim, the area was overrun by a powerful gang whilst Odin was distracted, and the domain taken over. Comprised of a giant technological castle built into a large artificial mountain, this keep is slowly degrading due to lack of care, with areas crumbling and the advanced technology failing. The gang, led by a humongous Nart giant named Yeork, prefer to spend their time drinking and partying, enjoying the power they hold whilst it lasts. Many travel to Castletown to drink, gamble and partake in the great festivals and tournaments of the gang.


Mbûngi
Mbûngi is the void above the Shadow Realm, a near endless expanse of sky and space filled with celestial beings of all kinds. It is considered to be the most dangerous place in the Shadow Realm, and possibly all realms, due to the presence of the star entities; eldritch entities that take the form of stars. Such beings include Ask-wee-da-eed, the star of fire, Wormwood, the star of poison, and the Centzonhuītznāhua, the lesser stars. The wars and machinations of these entities have devastated both Mbûngi and the lands below, and they are perhaps the greatest threat to exist in The City.
Check out a free introductory adventure set in The City!