Tir na Nog
THE ETHEREAL GLEAMING CITY IS THE SEAT OF POWER AND WISDOM IN HIBERNIA
The gates of Tir na Nog are beautiful white walls flanked by gold-capped spires, guarding winding passages deep into the rock. When the great city itself is finally revealed, it is no wonder that most visitors to the capital describe the experience as if having crossed a boundary between worlds and ended up in a liminal space. The great city is a wonder of glittering crystals jutting from mountain cauldron that protects the city, hidden groves that appear as if the rock of the world itself gave way for the trees to grow, and shining white buildings placed in harmony with the surrounding land.
Those arriving from Mag Mell in Lough Derg will find themselves nearest the Way of Magic, where arcane energies hum and crackle as master Eldritches, Enchanters, Mentalists and Bainshees perfect and pass on their arts to willing students.
Those arriving from Ardagh in Connacht will instead be greeted by the fresh air of Tir na Nog’s largest grove and the Way of Nature, where Druids, Wardens and Bards congregate to learn the healing ways and beseech the woodland spirits for their blessings.
Between these two sit the Way of Stealth, the shrouded corner of the city where the shadows grow longer and imperceptible darkness shrouds your steps. Here the Rangers, Nightshades and Vampiir of the realm make their reports and prepare for new forays into the wild corners of the world.
Near the Way of Magic is the great crystalline tunnel which martial students must pass through in order to reach the Way of Arms. Some say that the ringing and reflections of the crystals judge whether prospective students will be able to handle the chaos and din of battle. When emerging on the other side, the rank and file of Hibernia’s armies will be ready to greet these students. Heroes, Champions and Blademasters all hone their skills here, both martial and spiritual, for wanton destruction is antithetical to the survival of Hibernia.
Between the Way of Arms and Way of Nature is the great plaza, where bards and tradesmen alike gather. Bards entertain as well as deliver news from across the realm, while craftsmen hone their art and make ample use of the metropolitan hustle and bustle to sell their wares.
Beyond the great plaza is the king’s palace, where councilors, scholars, petitioners and all manner of important folk gather to discuss the goings-on of the realm.
