Ruudan

Ruudan is a fictional port city on the central coast of the Velmar Archipelago in the fantasy setting of Eldoria. It has a population of about 120,000 and serves as the provincial capital of Lyrath, perched at the edge of a sheltered harbor surrounded by low hills.

The city is governed by a mayor and a twelve-member council, with departments responsible for Planning, Public Works, Culture, and Security. The climate is maritime temperate, with mild winters, cool summers, frequent mists, and regular rainfall, particularly in autumn.

Ruudan's history traces to the early guilds of shipwrights who settled here around 1120. It grew as a trading hub due to its natural harbor and safe anchorage. Over centuries it weathered coastal conflicts and economic revolutions, maintaining its role as a gateway between inland regions and overseas markets.

Economically, Ruudan relies on shipping, shipbuilding, fisheries, and timber. The harbor supports ferries to neighboring islands and a rail link inland. The Market District hosts merchants, crafts, and spices, while the University of Ruudan provides programs in maritime science, engineering, and literature.

Culturally, Ruudan is known for its annual Lantern Festival, where paper lanterns are released along the quays at dusk, and for a distinct dialect of Englin-based creole spoken by fisherfolk and merchants. Landmarks include the Old Gate, the Market Hall, and the Beacon of Aelor lighthouse. Notable residents are relatively few, but the city has produced several ship captains and scholars featured in regional histories.