• Lore • [Information] Viden Lore Thread 📙

[Pegasus]

Society

Languages

Generally, due to the diverse nature of the Fortress, when inside there one could expect to hear any number of languages being spoken. This diversity of language is positively encouraged; Yvithia, after all, is the Immortal of Communication and one is likely to come across small and impromptu groups discussing particular words and phrases in the Fortress.

With the sheer amount of visitors to the city, it is not uncommon to find foreigners converging, and the speaking in tongues around a table in a restaurant. As perviously stated, the likelihood is that these visitors speak the non-regional tongue too, in order to communicate more effectively. The city is overseen by the Immortal of Language and Communication: she has a vested interest in the study and protection of all languages, from all races, religions, cultures and creeds across Idalos. As such, there are tomes on any and all languages (written, spoken, and signed) found. The Academy also offers free tuition in language learning for citizens and visitors alike. All lessons are taught by a native speaker of the specific language.

However, there are certain specifics:

The Common Tongue

The most frequently spoken language in Viden is the Common Tongue: it is a non-regional language and can be found most anywhere within Idalos. For this reason, it is the most simple way to communicate with foreigners, who are likely to speak Common as a shared language. All children raised and educated in Viden will be taught by instructors using the Common Tongue. It is also a requirement to be at least conversational in Common in order to study at tertiary level at the Academy.

The Ancient Tongue

The Ancient Tongue follows as a close second. The language of the Immortals, Yvithia took great pains to insure her eídisi were instructed in her own native tongue. A number of humans also received the privilege, and the language is taught during secondary education to all Videnese children, regardless of race. Due to the nature of learning so late in life (a conscious decision of academics), only the most dedicated and willing of students will retain the knowledge they learn, and take it further). Some eídisi parents, however, may chose to raise their children with the Ancient Tongue as their first language.

Widenese

Language is a dynamic and changing thing and the resurrection of Treid brought about a subtle shift in the language of Viden. Yvithia's deep emotional response to the return of her love was felt in many ways in the very stones of Viden. One way in which the Immortal of Language influenced the populace was a local dialact ~ called 'Widenese' ~ which was developing and growing slowly has become something of a talking point in Viden. It has caught on and it is very well accepted both inside and outside the Fortress. Widenese is not a spoken language at all but is a series of signs and sounds which help those who are in Viden's wilderness. Often needing to be quiet - or, conversely, unable to be seen because of snow - this language was slowly growing in use. As of 1st of Ymiden 722, it is something which is often seen accompanying transactions etc in the Fortress itself.

OOC This is the Local Language for Viden. It may be claimed in any threads which meet the criteria for gaining local languages which were started after 1st June 2022. Please ensure that you are fully aware of the rules around this.

[Pegasus]

Politics

Government

The leaders of Viden number five. The government organisation is called The Directorate, which consists of four Delegates and their leader, who claims the title of Máthisi.

In all things, they are to be obeyed without question. They are not obeyed because they are particularly tyrannous, but that to disobey them could affect the entire city, which must remain strong during the treacherous weather that plagues the city every day. For the most part, they are benevolent, approachable leaders, with the best interests of the city and its citizens at heart, and their policies reflect that.

OOC Please see the NPC Repository for the most up to date list of the current Government. We won't put them here because things change - so - a link to where the information is stored: <WILL GO HERE!>

The Military

The military is split into two sections: The Mariners and the Rangers. Viden’s need for a military is not borne out of any fear that they will be under siege from any other cities; the land and climate is so inhospitable that it would take supplies beyond reckoning for another force to be able to even reach Viden, let alone wage war against it. The military of Viden is a small, yet highly skilled, combative force. It is made up primarily of the more brawnily built humans, yet some eídisi have been known to join their ranks.

The only groups that the city’s military is constantly prepared for are the few Mer tribes that can survive the cold waters in the Bay of Synnefa. In the past, these tribes had wiped out all life, plant and fish alike, which had caused a lethal strain on the city's food supply; the inhabitants survive almost entirely on the catch that fishermen bring home. The Mariners are the dedicated arm of the military trained specifically to monitor the waters around Viden for signs that these destructive tribes have returned and, if necessary, destroy them.

A smaller section of the military are known as the Rangers. They are given training in terrain combat and perform a number of roles inside and outside the city. Inside the walls of Viden, the Rangers act as the police force and peacekeepers. Outside the walls, the terrain force protect the city from the many creatures that roam the tundra around Viden and the outlying cities. The Rangers also function in part as hunters, who bring down land animals for the meat and fur that they can provide.

For more information:

Laws of the Land

The Ancient Tongue follows as a close second. The language of the Immortals, Yvithia took great pains to insure her eídisi were instructed in her own native tongue. A number of humans also received the privilege, and the language is taught during secondary education to all Videnese children, regardless of race. Due to the nature of learning so late in life (a conscious decision of academics), only the most dedicated and willing of students will retain the knowledge they learn, and take it further). Some eídisi parents, however, may chose to raise their children with the Ancient Tongue as their first language.

Please Note: Laws can (and do) change. It is the responsibility of the citizen to know the laws - ignorance is not an acceptable defence.

Arson

• The crime of intentionally and maliciously setting fire to buildings, wildland areas, vehicles or other property with the intent to cause damage. It may be distinguished from other causes such as spontaneous combustion and natural wildfires. It is highly unlikely that a fire might succeed within the city, but should an individual or a group succeed in destroying even a few books, the consequences would be severe.

Disturbing the Peace

• Including, but not limited to, offensive language, gestures or displays; unreasonable decibels of noise in a public place or near residences; fighting outside of a training scenario; use of weaponry outside of a training/hunting environment or in lawful target practice.

False Identification

• For example the use of another’s identification papers to unlawfully enter restricted archives or laboratories. Those in Viden take great pride in their sense of self, and impersonation is despised. Related to Forgery.

Forgery

• Whether it be of money or of identification papers, forgery is prohibited within the city. It is also a gross offence to copy any academic documents or tomes held within the buildings of Viden without express permission from either the Directorate or Academic Officials.

Murder

• The killing of someone without justification or valid excuse is considered by all in Viden to be the most abhorrent crime that could be committed. The punishment is always severe. In particular the presence of premeditation with malice carries a harsher punishment.

Sexual Offenses

• When someone forces another person to have sex against his/her will through the actual use of violence or through the threat of physical violence in the future. Sexual assault also occurs when the victim's power to appraise or control the situation is impaired by any drug, alcohol, or any other means used to cause submission.

Theft

• Robbery occurs when a person knowingly takes anything of value from another person by the use of force, threats, or intimidation. It also includes larceny, pickpocketing and the concealment of goods - also known as shoplifting - from vendors and any selling their wares in the city.

Caste

• All citizens - both visitors and guests - must defer to those of a superior caste to them. Yvithia's word is absolute, the Máthisi and her Directorate speak for Yvithia. Treid is Yvithia's consort and, as such, is only slightly below her in the heirarchy. If a citizen is given an order by someone in a superior caste to them, they must obey unless it is a violation of Videnese law.

Slavery & Ownership

• A slave is the property of their owner and, as such, any harm to the slave is damaging the property of the owner. A slave themseves has no rights or recourse. Should a slave commit any of the offences above, the owner will be responsible for them.

Crime & Punishment

Crime is very low in Viden. The inhabitants - of any race - have a very low tolerance for any form of crime, from stealing a loaf of bread to murdering another being. Given the nature of the people who inhabit the city, and those who brave the bitter weather to travel here, it is unlikely that someone would actually commit a crime. Therefore, when it does occur, shock, outrage and disgust are the general reactions… no matter how petty the crime really is.

The Máthisi and her Directorate are the judges for all crimes, so low in number are the offences. There is no dedicated facility for incarceration, so punishments are swift and corporal in design. Trials- and the meting out of punishments, are public affairs and always draw a large (and very well-behaved) crowd.

Common Punishments:

• A common punishment is lashings, which can range from five flays to fifty.
• It is not unheard of for a thief to lose a hand, or a blasphemer to lose their tongue.
• Rather than exile - which is now accepted as being a death sentence in all but name - criminals may be enslaved. Upon being enslaved, they immediately are stripped of caste and are removed from their family. Their children or dependents (should they have them) are taken care of by the state and they are either sold immediately or trained and then sold. Depending on the crime, the place where the slave must work can be dictated.
• The most extreme punishment is exile which - although there is no official capital punishment in the city - is nigh on always a death sentence to any who receive it. This punishment is being used less and less.

If a criminal is enslaved as punishment for their crimes, they may appeal for their freedom by appearing again before the Máthisi and her Directorate after a minimum term set by them upon giving their judgement.

[Pegasus]

Culture

Holidays & Feasts

Viden celebrates a number of festivals throughout the arc.

Rebirth Cycle

As of Arc 721, the Rebirth Cycle is given over to the gratitude of the Videnese people to the resurrection of Treid. These festivals are new to Viden in light of this.

Cylus

Cylus 1st: The "outside" is plunged in to darkness, but Yvithia's Fortress remains as a bastion against the dark and the cold. As darkness hits the world, massive beacons are lit on the mountaintops all around Viden. These beacons are flames which burn pure white and they remain lit for all of Cylus. The world may be darkness, but Viden's light shines brightly. As the sky fills with auroras, the flames seem to reflect the colours and somehow enhance them ~ the effects over Viden throughout Cylus are some of the most beautiful sights on Idalos.

Cylus 30: Moon Trial - The Fortress celebrates this trial in a few different ways. The fortress, normally lit up against the Cylus darkness, smothers as much light as is realistically possible, symbolizing reverence for the moon. All babies born in during the month of Cylus are considered to have a special connection with Treid. On this trial, friends and family gather two breaks before the end of the trial. Under the light of 'Moonstones', two candles are lit, one by the mother and the other by the father. Slowly, working outwards from close family, extended family and then friends, more and more candles are lit, symbolizing the infant's waking consciousness and thirst for knowledge. Then, when all the candles a lit, the parents announce their child's name - referred to as the 'first knowledge'.

Ashan

Ashan 1: Festival of Ice and Lights - At the turn of the trial, from Cylus to Ashan, the darkness of the Moon Trial is replaced by brilliant displays of light in the Fortress, celebrating the return of light. All over Viden, ice sculptures are erected, showcasing the talent of the fortresses many artisans.

Ashan 12: Kryoma When light returns, the citizens of the city celebrate the year that has passed and share good wishes for the year to come. Keeping with the historical significance of honoring Ziell on this day, the use it as a trial to perform charitable acts for their fellow citizens and promote peace and well-being within Viden. What and how that happens is up to the creativity of the person giving, but no acts are too large or too small.

Hot Cycle

Ymiden

1-31 Ymiden: In honor of Padraig Augustin and his resurrection of Treid, the Viden Academy hosts the 'Observance of Knowledge - Commemorative Congress of Treid's Return.' Professors from every department at the Academy give free mini-lectures to the public on various topics, celebrating the sharing of knowledge. Astrophysics is of particular importance, being Padraig's specialty, as are historical accounts of the events that led up to and involved the Immortal's resurrection, including the resurrection itself, the sharding of Treid and the events of Tried's Tomb. While the Academy runs the event, these lectures/classes/demonstrations are offered throughout the fortress, often with local artisans and craftspeople joining in and giving demonstrations of their skills. Viden's streets are (tastefully) alive throughout these trials with music, food, and celebration.

Ymiden 50: Sahe'a - Though love is not the first thing to come to mind when a person thinks of Viden, it does not mean it is unimportant. Lady Yvithia decided to show her support for those who chose to study the language of "love" by creating the Sahe'a festival. It is a day when shops have sales to try and boost their popularity among the younger people. As the sun begins to go down, light music can be heard all over the city. Couples go for walks, go out to eat, and sit on the top of flat-roofed buildings to watch the stars that shine brightly in the sky. It is a trial devoted to relationships and their unique place in the universe.

Saun

10 Saun - Festival of Natalis - In Viden, all birthtrials are celebrated on the same trial to minimize disruption to the city and for efficiency. On this trial, almost all of Viden is shut down and a public celebration is held, complete with food and music. Small gifts are exchanged within family units, but always done privately.

23 Saun - Apricus - Devoted to the concept that art and culture enhance brain function and well-being, this trial is given over to the Adamantite District, where plays, art exhibits, poetry readings and all manner of art and culture are honored. Street performances are a common sight with singers and musicians giving concerts. The theaters are all open and performances throughout the Adamantite District are free.

Cold Cycle

Vhalar

Vhalar 11-17: Synnefa - The stars often shine the brightest on the darkest trials and nights to descend upon Viden. The nature of the Northern Region means that the city enjoys exceptionally long days during the summer seasons. Still, it comes at a price: the winter brings very little natural daylight, and some days, the city will be greeted only by starlight to guide their way. For this, Viden holds a celebration named in honor of the Immortal of Stars, to thank Xiur most fervently, and hold banquets in his honor. The festival is an offering to him, as the Hot Cycle ends and the coldest and darkest days approach. The 11th trial of Vhalar sees the beginning of the celebrations, which last for six trials. Again, the city comes ablaze with fire, this time celebrating the light with which the Immortal of Stars blesses the citizens.

Zi'da

Zida 1: Sofíthia - Despite the almost fanatical loyalty to Yvithia, they do not often worship her in the traditional sense. Those loyal to her seek her favor almost entirely through the learning of new knowledge. On the first trial of Zi'da each year, the city comes to a standstill. The doors of the libraries and universities close, and everyone, even slaves, are invited to abandon work and enjoy the festivities. After libations are offered to the Immortal of Intelligence, there is a public banquet, followed by private gift-giving, continual partying, and a carnival atmosphere that overturns the social norms of the city: gambling is permitted, and slaves may dine beside their masters. Bonfires are lit throughout the city, wasting precious fuel for the sake of frivolity, which symbolizes the quest for knowledge and truth.

[Avalon]

Culture

Religion

In the city's beginnings, Yvithia offered sanctuary to many of the nomadic groups of humans who inhabited the frozen areas of the Northern Region in Idalos. For this reason, she is loved by all and thought of as a savior by many. This information has been passed down through the generations of humans through fables and narrative poems, so the Videnese would never forget their heritage or the debt they own the Immortal.

Though not as pronounced as in the eídisi, the humans who live in Viden have a sense of self-importance. They are fiercely proud of what their frozen city is renowned across Idalos for, and they are proud of the education (which is considered by them to be second to none) that all in the city - no matter their rank - are offered. They will defend the honor of their homeland and that of their beloved Immortal. The eídisi share much of the same reasoning as their human neighbors do. Still, they have the added mentality that their superiority is bested only by Yvithia, their mother and creator. Their perceived intelligence allows them to understand the necessity of their creation: the experimentation of humans for the sake of discovering the cause of The Great Shattering. Thus, they do not resent Yvithia for the torment they, or their ancestors, suffered at her hands.

But Yvithia is not the only Immortal who is celebrated within the city of Viden. Second to Yvithia is Treid, beloved of their patron Immortal. His influence upon Yvithia and Viden as a whole is celebrated. Ziell and Xiur are also considered favorites, each with their own respectably-sized dedicated following. The worship of multiple Immortals is frowned upon in the city and is not done openly, but Yvithia and the Directorate have not explicitly banned such practices.

Marriage & Divorce

The Videnese are a very rational, straight-forward kind of people - especially in the matter of rituals and traditions. Love is framed as an expanding of knowledge, and weddings celebrated as exploring the experience of life and love. Overall, weddings are highly streamlined, adhering to a few basic traditions and short ceremonies. The celebration following the ceremony is more individualized.

Proposals: Men or women can propose, and no is always an option. Proposals are an individual, personal thing, with the proposer asking with as much, or as little, ceremony as they choose.

The one tradition adhered to in Viden is the betrothal necklace, given by the proposer. Like a proposal, these betrothal necklaces can be as unique as the people gifting them. When accepting a proposal, a necklace is gifted in return. If the proposal is rejected or the betrothal is broken for any reason, the necklace(s) must be returned.

A betrothal necklace, to adhere to tradition, must include no less than three elements of symbolism which must be explained to the receiver. This honors the idea that the necklace is given with great thought and consideration with the receiver in mind. This tradition goes both ways, with the initial proposal and acceptance.

Proposals most often happen during the first trials of a cycle due to the fact that it is tradition to hold the wedding before the end of the same cycle. Long engagements are not common and frowned upon.

Weddings: Fortress weddings are very standard with little room for individualization. Due to this, it would seem to an outsider that Videnese don't appreciate love or the concept of marriage but the exact opposite is the truth. Rumor is that the reason for the streamlined wedding, which was mentioned in archival records earlier than proposal or celebration traditions, is so the betrothed couple can enter their marriage as quickly as possible and move on to the celebration.

There are some things that are expected in a wedding ceremony, and the Videnese adhere to them religiously.

Customs

• The giving and exchange of betrothal necklaces with required explanation is the oldest wedding tradition. Couples that choose not to are said to be inviting bad luck into their union.
• There is no traditional wedding attire. The Videnese are practical and believe that one should wear whatever they wish on their wedding trial.
• The traditional color scheme throughout the ceremony venue is white, symbolizing a new beginning. Viden has several community ceremony centers for rent that serve this purpose, if the couple desires. The more affluent of the city generally utilize their own event spaces.
• Friends and Family bring small stones they have found (or purchased - some shops carry ceremony stones) around the Fortress and place them in what's called a 'Lapides Bowl.' This symbolizes the foundations the couple's lives are built upon and the joining of them.

Superstitions

• Couples that choose not to exchange betrothal necklaces are said to be inviting bad luck into their union.

Gifts

Traditional gifts include:

• Books
• Pottery

It is considered unlucky / inappropriate to give:

• Food
• Money

Attitudes

As a rule of thumb, Videnese don't really care who is marrying who so long as everyone involved is doing so freely. They are very against forcing someone to marry; marriage should be a voluntary choice.

Therefore, same sex couples or polygamous marriages are considered exactly the same as any other wedding.

Traditional Viden Wedding

The Ceremony

Videnese wedding ceremonies are quick affairs, often lasting less that fifteen bits start to finish. Most people prefer to rent one of the Videnese wedding venues placed around the Fortress for convenience. These venues are already decorated with the traditional Videnese color scheme of white and are very low fuss for the betrothed couple, allowing them to focus their attention more on the celebration.

The only part of the Viden ceremony that can be customized is the vows. The couple is allowed to write their own, keeping in mind the need to quickly get through the ceremony.

The Lapides Bowl from the ceremony is transported to the celebration site (if not in the same place) and then is given a place of honor in the couple's home.

Celebration

Betrothal Agreements: The Videnese are practical people who value being as prepared as possible. Betrothal agreements are more often the rule than the exception, outlining the property/monetary split if the couple chooses to divorce. These drawing up of these documents are is viewed in a negative light. Betrothal agreements can be changed and/or voided at any point during the engagement or marriage with the consent of both parties.

Divorce: In the event of divorce, which is perfectly acceptable, the path to divorce depends on if the couple agrees to divorce or it's initiated by one side. If both parties agree to the divorce and terms of property/monetary settlement (betrothal agreement or not), a document is drafted with those conditions outlined and it's signed. There is a mandatory fifteen trial waiting period before the divorce becomes final. If, in that period of time, both parties agree to terminate the divorce, it becomes null and void.

If the divorce is sought by only one of the pair or they can not agree on how to split their property, they must go before the judge. The judge then will hear testimony as to what each party wants and make a decision based on such. If a betrothal agreement was drawn up at any time during the marriage and not voided by the couple, it is seen as absolute. If one does not exist, in almost all cases, assets will be split down the middle unless extraordinary circumstances exist. It is rare that a case goes before the judge.

Food

Food is precious. The average resident enjoys a diet that consists primarily of seafood, given the ease of catching fish endemic to the area. Meat and vegetables are often available, with the Rangers providing a constant source from kills in the arctic tundra, or provision from the farms. They are rationed out to the populace with the government keeping a tight hold, divvying it out based on how many people reside in each household, how often they visit the regulated storehouses, what is taken, and what is needed. Ration bundles consist of what can keep a person healthy.

However, if there is one thing all Videnese citizens can agree on, it is that the purpose of life is to sample and enjoy as many of the finer aspects of food and culture as possible. Therefore, more exotic foods (imported through trade agreements with cities across Idalos) are deemed a luxury and thus are more expensive. They are not typically kept in ample supply. While the wealthy can perhaps enjoy a wider variety in their diets, even they are subject to quantity restrictions that not even significant sums of money can circumvent - lest rioting break out in the streets.

Also regulated is the intake of alcohol in the city. Viden has its own produce, and it also imports a variety of other alcohols from across Idalos. The nature of alcohol - that it is non-perishable - means that the cost to import it is relatively low. However, excessive consumption of the toxic substance has often led to the wasting of precious resources in Viden’s main medical center: sometimes due to reduced inhibitions and brawls, but more often due to the arctic conditions of the city. Alcohol and cold temperatures are a lethal combination, and there have been many cases of frostbite, hypothermia, and even death.

Attire

Viden is cold. Even though the city is protected from the worst of the freezing winds by the cliffs, Viden's residents have developed a comfortable, layered dress style that allows for survival in such a harsh environment but is versatile enough to allow easy transition when people move indoors.

There is not much in the way of materials available, aside from what is gathered on trade or hunting creatures from the tundra, so the majority of all garments are made of animal skins, pelts and furs. Some are left whole, while others are tanned into thick leathers. Sealion, walrus and the occasional whale are heavily sought by those who spend a great deal of time in the elements outside the city walls because of their natural waterproofing. That isn't to say that oils aren't withdrawn from these animals to help waterproof other garments, but the effect is not as strong and must be reapplied every so often. While this all sounds a bit limited, the tailors and seamstresses of Viden are masters of their crafts and have developed a very unique style that is practical, easy to manage, and quite attractive when the situation calls for it.

Music

Like everything in Viden, music is something to be studied and appreciated in all it's forms. The traditional music of Viden is very structured, having a classical, almost old world feel to it. However, because it's composition is studied so heavily and there are often influences coming from outside Viden in the form of visiting professors, flavors from around Idalos are sneaking into traditional compositions.

Instruments used for classical Videnese music are piano, flute and all manner of stringed varieties, such as violin. Interestingly enough, brass and percussion instruments are not used.

Rituals

Scalvoris is a strange place and it's people are real contradictions in some ways. They have a tendency to have quite ritualised behaviour around life events; it's worth to mark the important ones, because you never know when it's going to be your last chance to have a party, after all.

	Adoption	Adoption is a fairly common occurrence on Scalvoris; parents die, children get orphaned. It's logical to the Videnese people. When an individual, couple or family adopts a child, they immediately benefit from any and all rituals involving children. There are no special celebrations as the child is immediately considered a member of the family. For any child that doesn't have a birthtrial documented, a date is chosen on the trial of their adoption.
	Birth	In Videnese culture, the birth of a child happens in a calm, nurturing environment. Birth is a time of cautious optimism with the emphasis on the cautious. After a woman has given birth, she and the baby are monitored for several trials, making sure both are well and recovering from the birth. As a general rule, healthcare in Viden is provided to all, and specifically in the case of birth, even the poorest, low-caste women are afforded excellent pre and post-birth care. After the baby and mother are deemed fit, the family will have a small gathering centered around making sure the parents have all the essential items they need for the infant. Traditional gifts include clothing, educational literature and brain-stimulating toys.
	Birthtrials	In Viden, birthtrials are viewed in a much different manner than they are in the rest of Idalos. Citing the need to keep the celebration of birthtrials manageable and organized, all birthtrials in Viden are celebrated on 10 Saun during the Festival of Natalis. A persons actual individual birthtrial, up to the point when their compulsory eduction is complete, is devoted to acknowledging their academic achievements. After that point, birthtrials are just another trial.
	Coming of Age	Videnese consider 'coming of age' to be the point where their compulsory education completes. This signifies their shift from child to adult, and is the point where they must choose the path they will take with further education. There are no specific rituals surrounding this.
	Death	Death is the natural conclusion to the physical body. Being who they are, the Videnese view this as a natural event and use the bodies to their most efficient end. All bodies are autopsied and studied with organs being removed as needed for research or further exploration. Once the research potential of each body is reached, the remains are then taken to one of the city incinerators, and used for fuel to keep the fortress warm. The ashes are then taken to the 'Wall of the Dead' and interned there. Funerals are not commonplace in Viden, with each family or group mourning in their own way as a private matter.
	Pregnancy	Pregnancy is a fact of life for the Videnese. There are no specific rituals surrounding the physical state of pregnancy. However, it should be noted that all pregnant women, regardless of social status or wealth, are given afforded excellent health care during their pregnancy and post-partum. This is to ensure the 'herd health' of Viden as a whole.

[Pegasus]

Education

Education of Children

Original write up by Whisper. Minor edits by Peg.

As a hard rule, the inhabitants of Viden are rather well educated. Indeed, not being moderately educated can result in being ostracised. The influence of the Academy is very tangible in everyday life... so much so that even slaves receive a basic education in literacy and numeracy. For all children born free within the city, they will receive this same basic education, and will also receive further education with is compulsory, with the aim of giving them a strong foundation in history (specifically of Viden, but generally of Idalos as a whole), science and geography. All of this education is free, and slaves may receive it at any age. For children, their education is free up until the age of fourteen for humans and nineteen for eídisi.

For children, once they have completed their compulsory education, most go to learn trade skills following in the footsteps of their parents. Only those who come from the more affluent families can afford higher levels of education are encouraged for those who can afford it, indeed it is often a sign of status to be able to receive an award from the University in a particular field of study. While common folks often focus more on what is practical the wealthy either pursue more intellectual interests or send their children to be educated in a more refined manner. For current, highly-esteemed academics, there is the option of reduced fees for continued study for their children.

Education of Slaves

Any slave-owner is able to enroll their slave for education at any age. This education would be basic literacy and numeracy and would be held in a specific class for slaves. There are also classes which an owner may send their slave to in logistics, housekeeping, cleaning and the arts of being a slave. Specific training in pleasure arts are not available, although basic massage etc, are. Fundamentally, basic education for slaves is free, and owners are expected (though not required) to see that their slaves are educated. For those who wish to train their slaves in more specific or even niche skills, there are tutors available.

Viden Academy

Please see the Viden Academy write up for up to date information.

Employment

There is no typical work day for the Videnese, given the stark variety of employment throughout the city. The availability of daylight hours can also affect the hours of safe work available in some professions, especially during the coldest seasons. Some jobs, however, require people to be working 24 breaks a day, and many employment opportunities happen inside the main fortress, thus daylight hours do not affect working conditions. The Videnese, whether human or eídisi, have a strong work ethic; they have become accustomed to a certain way of life, whether it be enjoyment of good food, wine, music or theatre, each citizen enjoys some form of luxury. All are aware that a steady income is required to see that way of life continued.

Most people with steady well paying jobs live within the cliff of Viden, save for the folk who live with their businesses in one of the stand-alone buildings. There is a direct correlation between wealth and housing location for those living in the cliff: the higher up the apartment is in the cliff (as well as the relative closeness to the cliff face), the more wealthy they are.

Viden has no automatic means of providing welfare to those who do not work. People are expected to look after themselves.

[Pegasus]

Economy

Trade

Original write up by Whisper. Minor edits by Peg.

For much of the year, the tundra runs on a very hunter-gatherer styled economy, trying to stockpile enough to last through a long, cold and effectively stifling winter. Fishing is a very common occupation: it takes place both on the coast and in the temporary summer streams created by melting permafrost, and much of the catch may be dried, salted or smoked for later consumption. Likewise, berries and water plants are gathered for as long as they can be found, and moss, seaweed or lichen may be cooked down. Meat and eggs come either from hunting wild arctic animals migrating across the frozen north, or from the farmed herds of bison and reindeer. Bison and reindeer also provide milk, and blood may be siphoned from them without killing them or doing any lasting harm.

Peat is cut from the bogs around the farmed animals, and dried as a fuel for the fire instead of wood. Dried animal dung is also used. In the coldest part of winter, when it is dark for much of the day, whale or seal oil may be used in lamps to give a cleaner, brighter light.

Viden is a city booming with various trade businesses and markets. Most of the trade occurs between citizens of the city, as Viden had learnt how to survive without the imports from other cities in Idalos. Trade throughout the city is prosperous and the city is mostly self-sustaining. However there are frequent visits from trade and merchant ships through Ashan to Vhalar (the bay of Synnefa freezes during Zi'id and Cylus: the coldest two seasons of the year). However there are many trade routes between Viden and a number of neighbouring or far cities. It is possible to travel to Viden across land, however it is more dangerous and takes far longer.

Vessels come from all over Idalos, stopping at ports in Rharne and Scalvoris before continuing on through the Hollow Sea and then down into the Bay of Synnefa. Once there, they will steer their ship into the large dockyard. Merchants from the Commissariat will then board the vessel in order to inspect the goods offered.

Due to Viden being self-sustaining, trade between other cities is not a necessity, but rather a an agreement that Viden has opted into. Common Imports range from the dynamics of what is desired in the city. Slave imports are very common and sought after imports. The city also looks to import a variety of food that cannot be grown within the city: when Videnese scholars return from foreign lands, they are obligated to return with small samples of the tastes and aromas they have experienced. It will then be decided as to whether or not Viden wishes to open up trade with that city. Therefore, much of trade is a luxury for Viden: the Videnese, as a rule, enjoy the finer aspects of food and culture. The purpose of trade with other cities is to support this lifestyle.

The same vessels used to transport cargo in trade are also used to ferry visitors two and from the city. In point of fact, the Viden Academy brings in more revenue for the city than any other true export the city has to offer. Common Exports however include alcohol (specifically from Burnt Wine, furs and leather, and various other minor trading goods. Art and culture, however, will always remain one of the biggest factors of trade known from Viden.

Synnefa Trading Post
The Synnefa Trading Post is located along the northern edge of The Bay of Synnefa, a day's ride south from Viden. A large, fortified tower on a small hill overlooks an impressive system of docks where a number of small ships are tethered. Down the opposite side of the hill from the docks exists a small village, where a few members of the Merchant's Guild and Commissariat live permanently. Made up of permanent storage structures and tents, this trading post is the first step in trade with the city. Nearly all trade goods, as well as visitors, must pass through the trading post before being allowed to leave the docks. The tower, docks, trade village and surrounding land are heavily patrolled by both Mariners and Rangers.

Housing

The housing system is decided based on a citizen's income and social class, or how much a visitor is willing to spend. Accommodation is situated in what the Videnese have called "prisms" and are named after a few of the precious gemstones quarried from the cliff as they were excavating it when first building the city. Anyone living in a prism is given accommodation based directly on social class, however there are a number of families and individuals who live in buildings outside of the two areas of Viden, yet still within the walls of the city proper.

The vast majority of accommodation is found in the cliff face. Due to the very nature of the cliffs, not everyone has the luxury of having rooms with a window.At the bottom of the cliffs is the Malachite Prism, which takes up a single level. It houses the lowest social class of the Precariat. On the next two levels of the cliffs is found the Tsavorite Prism. This prism houses one of the largest castes: the Unskilled Labourers. The Carnelian Prism is positioned directly above the Tsavorite Prism, and is occupied by students of the Viden Academy (both citizens and visiting students). The topmost two layers of the cliff is known as the Amber Prism. It houses the Skilled Workers and Business Owners of Viden.

The two highest social classes are housed separately, within the main fortress building of Viden, which is the more metropolitan area of the city. The Prisms are not close to each other, and fill separate spaces, away from the common folk. One of the towers of the fortress is named the Moonstone Prism, and is found on the southern edge of the fortress. It is occupied by the Masters of the city - the highest rank a citizen can climb based on merit. The final prism, found on the western edge of the city, not far from the cliffs, is the Obsidian Prism. Here, the aristocracy live in large apartments and attached houses with grand rooms.

Taxation

Taxation rates in Viden are high, by necessity. However, for the peace and order of Viden, it is accepted and acknowledged as appropriate. Tax is worked out depending on income with a higher percentage being taken from those who earn more.

OOC Note You don't need to do anything about paying tax, this information is provided for RP purposes only.

Businesses

Businesses in Viden can be very lucrative, both for the owner and for the city as a whole. The major families oversee many aspects of businesses within Viden. In some cases, they were wealthy enough to buy the business, thus increasing their own revenue. Other families built their businesses from the ground up, starting with nothing and taking a risk that paid off.

The Commissariat approves all business plans in and around Viden, based on space, funding and requirement for the services offered. Finding proper locations to construct a business is also fairly difficult as room is sparse in Viden. In some cases, potential business owners may be able to move into the rooms of a previous, closed-down business. Those seeking to construct a new business are responsible for building them from the ground up which adds to the cost of the business. New construction takes time, however there remains a few closed businesses which are available to purchase.

[Pegasus]

Factions

The Directorate

The Directorate is the ruling group of the city, consisting of four Delegates and their leader: the Máthisi. In all things, they are to be obeyed without question. It is not that they are particularly tyrannous, but that to disobey them could affect the entire city, which must remain strong during the treacherous weather that plagues the city every day. The enlightenment that Viden enjoys - arguably more-so than other cities - results in a very intelligent group of leaders. At worst, this results in actions of entitlement towards certain races and groups... at best, they engender a society based on tolerance and equal opportunity. For the most part, they are benevolent, approachable leaders, with the best interests of the city and its citizens at heart, and their policies reflect that.

The Máthisi, who is always female answers directly to the ever-present Yvithia, who has a vested interest in protecting those who live in and venture to her stronghold, as each has something to offer. Thus permanent citizens and guests are treated as equals, and any hierarchy is based entirely upon ability and/or intelligence. Respected members of the community, the Directorate consists of individuals who are learned but, more importantly, display practical qualities, such that they are capable of ruling the city effectively. They must not fall to the addiction of studying, as they must constantly consider what the city needs in order to survive… which they would not be able to learn from the well-worn pages of an old tome. Often, the Directorate are at odds with Yvithia and her high-ranking academics, but the latter two hold grudging respect for the former.

All members of the Directorate are of eídisi or human heritage exclusively, and may be male or female, though the Máthisi, who is elected every six years from the currently serving Directorate, must be female. Members of the Directorate may chose to serve for up to three terms. Rarely, a Delegate is deemed unfit to serve, most often due to ailing mental health relating to age or trauma. Every six years, there is an election, in which any citizens who have reached their majority (which varies from race to race), and any guests - also of majority - who have been in the city for at least two seasons, may vote for the placement of any candidates into the Directorate. Candidates must have been born within the city limits. There is a separate vote for the election of a new Máthisi, however the five members of the previous term count for 50% of the votes.

With the return of Treid and all the change which has happened in Viden, it is important that the Directorate remain as a source of stability. Therefore, the current Directorate has remained unchanged for some arcs and Yvithia has decreed that this is acceptable.

The Academy

Not strictly speaking a faction, the leadership of the Academy is a powerful force in Viden and is both well - respected and able to command significant resources and power. Please see the Academy write up for full details.

The Mariners & Rangers of Viden.

Vitally important to the city, those in the Mariners' and Rangers' Unions are considered by most to be uncouth and uneducated, but this does not stop them from holding vast amounts of respect from even the most powerful academics. All highly trained and especially skilled in one fishing, hunting, tracking, combat, and sailing, their knowledge of their craft can be measured against any book-smarts in the city. They are, in effect, the life blood of the city, supplying Viden with the majority of its food, as well as protecting the city.

The force of the Videnese Mariners (otherwise known as the Videnese Navy) is one of the strongest in the world, purely because of their unique knowledge and skills when it comes to sailing in the harsher climates of the arctic waters. They are specifically named for their work on the sea - arguably, the only group that the city must be protected against are the various Mer races, who are destructive towards nigh on all civilisations that they approach. The Mer races are killed on sight, thus they are constantly training to be prepared for battles against any arriving clans.

The Mariners also play an important role in monitoring the movements of the many pirate ships who traverse the high seas. Pirates threaten the precious cargo that is vital to Viden: the fresh food, cattle and slaves which arrive every season. It is due to the efforts of Viden's Mariners that the trade routes so vital to its survival are kept safe.

Other than that, their peacetime tasks turn to support the fishing industry. They work in close tandem with the Hunters and Merchants of the city, ensuring Viden's survival on an economic level, as well as a combative one.

The Rangers play a similar role, but in the wild and icy tundra surrounding the fortress. They protect Viden on land in the way that the Mariners protect the seas. Wild and uncouth they may be, but there are none better suited to surviving in the unforgiving colds.

The Intelligence Authority of Viden.

The Intelligence Authority are an intelligence service and law enforcement agency which operates in secrecy throughout the main city of Viden and in all of the outlying towns around the Bay of Synnefa. As a secret police organisation, they have little to no transparency, accountability or oversight, and they answer only to the Directorate (who, in turn, are loyal to Yvithia). A subsection of the Naval Force, the Intelligence Authority is given all of the standard tactical and combative training expected. The best are then offered the chance to gain training in intelligence, subterfuge, interrogation and related skills, in order to gain rank in the secret police.

The Intelligence Authority are accountable only to the Directorate. They are specifically intended to operate above and beyond the law in order to suppress dissent or negative movements through clandestine acts of terror and intimidation (such as kidnapping, coercive interrogation, torture, internal exile, forced disappearance, and assassination). They operate partially in secrecy, that is, most of their operations are obscure and hidden from the general public, though a number of operants are known to the public. This capacity allows the Directorate to bolster some forms of necessary control over the citizens and visitors to Viden.

The Intelligence Authority has the traditional (and transparent) police authority to arrest and detain certain individuals as necessary. But in some cases they are given unsupervised control of the length of detention, and are given authority to decide and administer punishments independent of the normal operation of Videnese law. The organisation employs internal spies and civilian informants to find any who may act against Yvithia's goals. Secret police may intercept letters entering and leaving the city, check goods and cargo loads leaving the city, and stop any person entering or leaving, especially through a path less travelled.

People apprehended by the secret police are often arbitrarily arrested and detained without due process. While in detention, arrestees may be tortured or subjected to inhumane treatment. Suspects may not receive a public trial, and instead may be convicted in a fake, show trial, or by a secret tribunal. In times of emergency or war, the Directorate may lawfully and publicly grant the Intelligence Authority additional powers, which are designed to protect the city and its inhabitants.

While people know that there is an Intelligence Authority, the vast majority of Videnese residents are law abiding citizens who believe that they have nothing to fear from the IA. They trust the police who are vigilant and present and keeping Viden safe.

The Merchant Guild of Viden.

Considered to be a lesser of the major factions in the city, the Merchant’s Guild is specific to Viden and its influence doesn’t extend beyond the city itself. The group is made up of any and all merchants in the cit, ranging from the bartenders and shopkeepers all the way through to those of a more political nature, who work only on keeping trade relations with other cities throughout Idalos. Together they decide the price of goods within the city though often they are influenced by the Mariner's and Hunter's Unions. They have a great amount of say in how the city spends the money placed into its coffers. A little known fact about the Merchant's Guild is that they also control and maintain the city’s warehouses and see to it that businesses within the city are allowed to flourish in a fair and competitive atmosphere. In such situations as there are shortages of food, it is this guild who will ensure that rationing is fair throughout the city.