Taer

Taer is a fictional city-state in the northern archipelago of the fantasy world of Eldoria. It functions as a regional center for trade, scholarship, and craft, and features a diverse urban landscape along the river and coast.

Taer sits at the mouth of the Taer River on tidal estuaries, with rocky hills to the north and fertile plains to the south. The city is divided by the river into eastern and western quarters, connected by stone bridges.

Founded circa the 10th century by Taeran clans, Taer grew as a regional trading hub and maritime power. It flourished during the Maritime Republic era, later confronting the Dominion in the 17th century and regaining independence in the following decade.

Taer is governed by the Council of Guildmasters, seven members elected by guilds and civic bodies. A mayor serves as chief executive, while the council sets policy on trade, infrastructure, and education. A constitutional charter outlines civil rights.

The economy centers on quarrying, timber, shipbuilding, and harbor trade. Marble and timber are major exports; fish and grain are common imports. The city hosts a growing education and service sector, anchored by the Academy and libraries.

Taer is multilingual and culturally diverse, with a tradition of guild craftsmanship and public festivals such as the River Festival. Architecture favors basalt and slate, and local cuisine emphasizes seafood, root vegetables, and dairy.

Prominent institutions include the Academy of Taer, the Bastion of Dusk, and the Quayside Market, as well as several historic libraries and guildhalls.