Ovilis

Ovilis is a fictional city-state in the fantasy world of Elion. It is situated on a natural harbor at the mouth of the Aeldra River on the western coast of the peninsula of Veyr, serving as a major trading hub and administrative center.

The city blends stone quays and timber-framed districts, with a network of canals that connect the harbor to inland markets. The climate is temperate with maritime influences, producing mild winters and wet springs that support a busy shipping season.

Ovilis originated as a neutral trading post during early maritime leagues and grew into a city-state through a charter granting self-governance and free-port status. It endured sieges and piracy, stabilizing in later periods through naval patrols and guild diplomacy that preserved its independence and commercial openness.

Governance is overseen by the Conclave, a merchant council that allocates seats to major guilds. A mayor is elected annually to supervise executive functions, while the High Court handles civil and commercial law. Policy is heavily influenced by trade guilds and mercantile interests.

The economy centers on maritime trade, shipbuilding, textiles, and metalwork. Ovilis maintains a predictable harbor regime with standardized dues, and its local mint issues the currency known as the ov. The city acts as a conduit between inland producers and distant markets.

Culturally, markets and workshops define daily life. The Tideweek festival celebrates seafaring and harvests, and landmarks such as the Galleon Gate, the Loomtower, and the Glass Market reflect the city’s nautical and craft traditions. The port handles ships of various sizes, with ferries linking to nearby islands and towns, supporting a diverse population of merchants, artisans, sailors, and families.