Rrethonis

Rrethonis is a fictional city-state in the fantasy setting of Valoria, situated on the northern coast at the estuary of the Vel River. It commands a natural harbor that links inland production to seaborne trade. The name appears in medieval-style manuscripts and is thought to derive from an ancient term for shore or to reflect the names of two founding guilds.

Geography and climate: The city occupies a crescent bay with stone quays, timber-quarter districts, and terraced slopes. The climate is temperate and maritime, with mild winters and frequent fogs that enhance the harbor’s mystique. Urban growth has been shaped by the need to protect maritime industries while preserving access to inland routes.

History: Rrethonis grew around shipwrights, merchants, and glassmakers who settled the harbor in the early medieval period. It joined regional alliances in the 14th century and endured periodic fires and sieges, after which it was rebuilt in stone. The industrial era introduced rail and steamship links, integrating the city with inland markets while preserving a distinctive coastal culture.

Government and society: Rrethonis operates as a constitutional city-state governed by a fifteen-member City Council and a mayor. The council drafts laws and oversees budgets, while a separate judiciary handles civil and commercial disputes. The city emphasizes free commerce, cultural pluralism, and a tradition of guild oversight in crafts and trade.

Economy: The economy centers on fishing, shipbuilding, and glassmaking, with the city famed for luminous glass lanterns and beads. The port handles timber, grain, and mineral exports, sustaining a dense market district and export trades.

Culture and landmarks: Notable sites include the Lumen Gate, Velhar Bridge, and the Old Market. A yearly Festival of Lanterns celebrates glasscraft, navigation, and local lore, drawing visitors from across Valoria.