Venlin Vaults

A Hidden World Below the Capital

Overview

Beneath the bustling streets of Venlin, the capital of Areeott, lies an extensive network of caverns and tunnels that form a secondary city known as the Undercity. These caverns, originally natural formations, have been expanded and utilized by the residents of Venlin for centuries, serving as everything from emergency shelters to secret meeting places during the Arin Civil War.  

Historical Significance

The caves beneath Venlin hold a rich history intertwined with the city's past. They were fully mapped in ancient times, but the original maps were mysteriously lost, adding an aura of mystery and allure to these subterranean depths. During times of strife, such as the Arin Civil War, these caves provided refuge and a strategic advantage to those who knew their intricate passages.  

Current Uses

Today, the Undercity serves multiple functions:   Transportation and Commerce: The caves facilitate an alternative route for transportation and goods movement, bypassing the bustling activity above ground.   Cultural Hub: Artisans and traders often set up shop in this underground marketplace, selling goods ranging from mundane wares to exotic artifacts.   Sanctuary: During harsh winters, the caverns offer warmth and shelter, functioning similarly to the underground city networks found in places like Montreal.  

Governance and Crime

Controlled by the Anakis, Matari, and Voss families—descendants of Tiefling performers who historically saved many lives—the Undercity is a place where the law of the land treads lightly. Here, one might find themselves entangled in the dealings of smugglers, spies, and other shadowy figures. While not all of the Undercity is nefarious, its darker corners are best navigated with caution.  

Adventure and Exploration

For adventurers and explorers, the lost maps of old promise the allure of undiscovered treasures and forgotten lore. Quests often begin or find their climax within the echoing chambers and lost vaults where history and mystery converge in the shadows of Venlin.
Type
Megastructure, Land based


Cover image: by Brian Laliberte

Comments

Please Login in order to comment!
Powered by World Anvil