Therras

Therras is a city-state located on the western coast of the continent of Eldara, built around a natural harbor and surrounded by terraced hills. It functions as a regional hub for trade, culture, and governance. As of the latest estimates, the population is about 110,000 people. The city maintains a mixed economy centered on maritime commerce, light industry, and agriculture produced on hillside terraces.

Therras sits on a protected harbor formed by a limestone promontory, with steep hinterlands where hillside terraces support vineyards, olives, and grain. The climate is temperate with dry summers and mild winters. The city’s origins lie with the Arenthic traders who settled here in antiquity, turning the harbor into a bustling mercantile network. It endured sieges during regional conflicts and gained stability after the Pact of Murin, which codified merchant rights and mutual defense.

Therras is governed by the Conclave, a constitutional council of guild leaders and appointed magistrates, led by a mayor elected to five-year terms. The city is divided into six districts with semi-autonomous neighborhood councils. The official language is Therran; minority languages are spoken by merchant and immigrant communities. The religious landscape is diverse, with temples and shrines reflecting pluralism.

Key industries include shipbuilding, ceramics, glassware, and wine, with a busy harbor handling both regional and long-distance trade. Agriculture grown on terraces supplies local markets and exports. The city hosts universities and museums; annual Harvest Lanterns festival draws visitors. Notable sites include the Fortress of Avar and the Terrace Gardens, which blend fortifications with horticulture.