Kvaadraadi

Kvaadraadi is a city-state and cultural region in a fictional continent. It lies along the southern coast where the Vaer River meets the sea, and is sheltered by a belt of low hills and a natural harbor. The name Kvaadraadi is thought to derive from old languages meaning “four councils,” reflecting its historical governance by four merchant guilds.

History: Kvaadraadi grew from a trading outpost in the 11th century into a political and economic center through seaborne trade and craft production. It joined a loose confederation of coastal states and later became a republic of city-states, maintaining a strong tradition of civic participation and guild influence.

Geography: The city is built on a tidal plain with nearby volcanic springs. Several islands lie offshore and are connected by causeways, while the surrounding region includes farms, forests, and timberlands that support local industry and trade.

Government: It is a constitutional republic with a Council of Four that appoints a mayor as chief executive. The council sets broad policy with input from guilds and civic assemblies, and the mayor oversees day-to-day administration and public services.

Economy: The economy rests on shipbuilding, metalworking, textiles, and port services. Kvaadraadi operates a major free-trade harbor and hosts seasonal markets that attract merchants from distant regions.

Demographics: The population is about 170,000. The city hosts multiple ethnic groups and languages, with Kvaadraadi as the dominant language and a widely used lingua franca for trade.

Culture: The city is renowned for guild crafts, a winter arts festival, and a cuisine that blends seafood, smoked meats, and root vegetables. Education centers include Kvaadraadi University, focused on maritime sciences and engineering.

Notable features: The Old Seal Fortress, the Market Ring, geothermal baths near Mount Larin, and a medieval lighthouse.