A colorful traveler’s guide with an illustration of the Sunspire Palace on the cover. Clearly designed to be sold to visitors.
WELCOME TO SOLARIS!
Whether you come for trade, pilgrimage, or simple wonder, the capital of the Kingdom of Solara welcomes you! This guide will help you navigate our magnificent city and make the most of your visit.
ABOUT THE CITY
Solaris—the Jewel of the Kingdom, the City of Light, the Seat of the Sunburst Throne—stands where the Azure River meets the Golden Sea. Our white marble walls and sweeping avenues radiate outward from the Sunspire Palace, crowned with a spire of crystal that catches the dawn and scatters it in a thousand dazzling rays.
Unlike the languid luxury of Seawatch or the scholarly quiet of inland towns, Solaris is a city of power and permanence. Here, crown, council, and temple unite. Great decisions are made in our halls. History is written in our streets.
DISTRICTS OF NOTE
The Dawnward Quarter Home to the greatest temples in the kingdom, arranged in harmonious rows so that their bells create a symphony at sunrise. The Grand Cathedral of Elandria dominates the skyline, its golden dome visible from anywhere in the city. Pilgrims come from across the realm to pray here, and the devoted may request blessings from the resident Lightbearers.
The Royal Quarter Surrounding the Sunspire Palace, this district contains the residences of noble families, the offices of government ministers, and the famous Solarian Gardens. Access is restricted, but visitors may view the Changing of the Guard at dawn and dusk—a ceremony unchanged for eight hundred years.
The Trade Quarter The beating commercial heart of Solaris! Here you’ll find everything from common necessities to rare luxuries: fine steel from Kael & Sons, enchanted goods at Sunveil’s Wonders, textiles at Treelace Textiles, and much more. The Gilded Dragon tavern is particularly recommended for those seeking excellent ale and lively company.
The Undercroft We include this section for completeness, though we do not recommend visitors venture there. The network of alleys, basement taverns, and forgotten tunnels beneath the Trade Quarter has… a reputation. The government tolerates its existence; the Church offers aid to those who dwell there. Let us leave it at that.
NOTABLE ESTABLISHMENTS
- Kael & Sons Fine Steel - The most prestigious smithy in the capital
- Sunveil’s Wonders - Magical goods and protective charms
- The Gilded Dragon - Tavern famous for dark ales and nightly competitions
- Treelace Textiles - Enchanted garments that never stain
- The Golden Grain - The finest bakery in the realm
- Glasswright’s Vault - Alchemy and exotic goods (buyer beware)
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Currency: Solaran gold, silver, and copper are accepted everywhere. Lusterian currency is accepted at most major establishments at fair exchange rates.
Accommodation: Ranges from humble inns near the docks to luxurious suites in the Royal Quarter. Book in advance during festival seasons.
Laws: Solara maintains strict laws regarding public worship, street commerce, and behavior after dark. Visitors are expected to comply. The City Watch is professional and generally fair, but they do not tolerate disruption.
A Note on Religion: The Church of Elandria is the official faith of the Kingdom. While worship of other gods is not explicitly forbidden, it should be conducted privately. Public shrines to Vaelith, in particular, are not permitted within city limits.
IN CLOSING
Solaris is more than a city—it is an idea made manifest. Here, the vision of Saint Calros lives on in every sunlit plaza, every tolling bell, every citizen who walks in the Light. We hope your visit is pleasant, enlightening, and safe.
Long live the King. Long live Solara.
—Published by the Solaris Merchant’s Association