Riverands

Riverands is a town situated along the River Averne in the northern coastal plain of Veridia. With an estimated population of about 12,500 as of 2022, it serves as a regional commercial and administrative center.

The town lies in a shallow river valley with fertile floodplains and nearby woodlands. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. The river provides natural harbors and supports historical mills, small-scale fishing, and recreational activities along the shoreline.

Riverands began as a fishing village in the 11th century, growing around a river crossing and later developing mills. A brief period of shipbuilding emerged in the 18th and early 19th centuries, followed by railway access in the mid-19th century that expanded trade. In the late 20th century, the town diversified into services and light manufacturing.

Today Riverands has a mixed economy anchored in logistics, light manufacturing, and services. The revitalized riverfront hosts markets, restaurants, and cultural venues. Transport links include a regional rail line, two arterial roads, and a small commercial port on the river.

The population is diverse, with long-time residents and newcomers. Public institutions include two primary schools, one secondary school, and a regional library. Cultural life centers on the Riverands Cultural Hall, the Old Mill Museum, and an annual River Days festival.

Riverands operates under a mayor-council system. The council enacts local ordinances and approves budgets, and the town participates in county and regional planning arrangements.