Serya

Serya is a fictional city-state in the continent of Valoria, located along the Serin River with access to the Serin Sea. It has a long mercantile and cultural tradition, with institutions that favor open markets, education, and civic participation.

The name Serya derives from the Seryan word for "meeting place," reflecting its historic role as a crossroads for traders and scholars.

Founded in the early first millennium BCE as a cluster of trading posts, Serya grew under maritime leagues and achieved municipal autonomy by the 3rd century BCE. It experienced a golden era in late antiquity before evolving within a regional confederation.

It functions as a constitutional city-state. A elected city council holds legislative power, while a mayor oversees executive functions. The council approves budgets and public policies; professional civil service implements them.

The economy blends river trade, textiles, ceramics, and shipbuilding. The urban core centers on markets, a river port, and libraries. Cultural life emphasizes markets, festivals, and architectural heritage including basalt towers.

Notable sites include the Serin Market and the Library of Seris. The population is imagined around 220,000 residents, with diverse communities tracing long-standing trade connections and academic traditions.