Lysium
Lysium
Winhem’s great human capital is Lysium, a city that embodies balance and serves as a beacon of hope for the entire human race. It was the first large-scale civilization to be built after the tumultuous Change Days.
Located in the heart of the Great Plains region, Lysium was constructed on the shore of the majestic Glancing Giant Lake. Its insignia, created during the Fifth Generation, symbolizes the city’s historical origins and its crucial role as a source of hope in the region.
Lysium boasts several important structures and organizations, including the Minting Factory which produces the human currency known as Rounds, and the Lysium Military, which safeguards the entirety of Winhem. Although humans make up the vast majority of the population, recent events have brought some Hellbends into the city. However, they remain a rare and cautious presence within its walls.
Generations
Lysium’s timeline operates in Generations, each spanning thirty years, and commencing from Year Zero, immediately after The Change Days. First Generation inhabitants of Lysium were alive at the conclusion of Year Zero, whereas Second Generation citizens were born in Year One. The onset of the third Generation took place in Year Thirty-One, and so on. For a comprehensive overview of Lysium’s historical developments across the Generations, refer to the Lysium History article. Notably, Year Two Hundred falls within the Eighth Generation, which draws to a close at Year Two Hundred Ten.
Culture
Lysium is a city with a deeply ingrained culture of military tradition and respect for the brave men and women who served the Human race. Many residents of the city are either active-duty military personnel or veterans, and as a result, there is a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experience that permeates the culture of the city. This military culture is also reflected in the architecture of the city, with many buildings designed to be both functional and resilient, able to withstand the rigors of war and conflict.
In addition to this military culture, Lysium is also a city that values hard work and dedication. Many residents take pride in their professions and work tirelessly to support their families and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the city. This strong work ethic is reflected in the bustling markets and artisan shops that line the streets, as well as in the many factories and manufacturing facilities that are located throughout the city.
Despite its focus on progress and modernity, Lysium also has a deep respect for history and tradition. Many old buildings and monuments are preserved throughout the city, serving as a reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage and the sacrifices made by those who came before.
Government
The city of Lysium is governed by the Council Three, a triumvirate of elected citizens who specialize in distinct yet vital niches throughout the city. Working in concert, they ensure balance and harmony in Lysium. The Council Three is comprised of the Head of People, the President of Minting, and the Head of Military.
Lysium’s government originated with the Five Founders, survivors of The Universe War. Upon the expiration of their tenure, the Council Three assumed control, a system established by the Founders. All positions are publicly elected and remain for life unless voluntarily relinquished or removed due to just cause. The Head of People manages citizen affairs, chiefly employment matters and the day-to-day operations of the city. The President of Minting oversees the Minting Factory and wields influence in the city’s trade and domestic economics. Finally, the Head of Military leads all actions of the Lysium Military across the entire Winhem region, maintaining peace and order.
Although each council member possesses distinct duties, they work in unison on most matters. The council functions as a partnership, with each member contributing input to each decision. For an in-depth history of Lysium’s government and details on the current Council Three, refer to the Lysium Government article.
Race Relations
The Humans have only recently begun to engage with the wider world, establishing relations exclusively with the Hellbend race in the Winhem region. Beyond the Hellbend city in Winhem, Humans remain entirely ignorant of other civilizations, successfully avoiding contact with the Anorians since the Universe War.
Human-Hellbend relations are cordial, but wary. Lysium and the Hellbend city of Winhem engage in frequent trade and knowledge sharing, though the Humans are protective of their mechanical secrets. Conversely, the Hellbends are more open with their Rigen skills. However, the Humans remain apprehensive about Rigen, with only a handful of students venturing to the Hellbend city to learn. While a few Hellbends can be found in Lysium, adventurous Humans are known to visit the Hellbend city.
Aside from Lysium, there is only one other sizable Human settlement: Brickwell. As a satellite city of Lysium, Brickwell is located a short distance east of the capital. The two cities enjoy a close relationship, with many in Lysium regarding Brickwell as an extension of their own city. Trade and travel between the two are constant.
For a comprehensive look at relations between every known city and race, consult the Race Relations Guide.
Architecture
The city of Lysium is a magnificent sight to behold, with its towering stone walls encircling each of its three distinct districts. The city’s architecture is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its inhabitants, who have created a city that is both inclusive and sturdy.
The city’s buildings are primarily constructed of stone, which gives them a robust and long-lasting quality. The walls of the buildings are thick and sturdy, providing protection from the elements and potential invaders. Many of the older buildings in the city are constructed of wood, which gives them a more rustic and traditional appearance. The use of wood in the architecture of the city is a nod to the city’s history and the struggle it took to get to where the city is now.
The Military District is the first area of Lysium that newcomers see when they enter the city. This area is populated mainly with small homes and shops owned by those wealthy enough to live inside the city walls. The buildings in this district tend to be smaller and more modest in design, reflecting the practical nature of the military personnel who reside here.
The Public District is the second section of Lysium, located between the Military District and the Government District. This district is home to many larger and wealthier shops, such as those of artisans, and the famous rotating farmers market. The Minting Factory of Lysium is also located here. The buildings in this district tend to be larger and more ornate, reflecting the wealth and status of its inhabitants.
Finally, the Government District is the smallest of the Lysium districts and houses all government buildings. The district is guarded by Lysium Military, and citizens must have an official reason to visit the area. Houses of important government and military officials are also located here. The buildings in this district tend to be grand and imposing, reflecting the importance of the government and military to the city’s inhabitants.
Map
As the capital city of the Human race, the city of Lysium is large and diverse. Above is the official, unmarked map of the city. Visit the Lysium Map lore page to see a more detailed map, as well as links to existing locations.