Ravenna |
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Links to:Gwynneth |
 A Hawkwood world, and the birthplanet of Emperor Alexius. While the planet is
safe from Vuldrok far, it is between two worlds which have suffered harassment. The people
are used to a quiet existence and pastoral pastimes, from falconry to beastback hunting.
Many outsiders believe they are in denial about the threat to their world and way of life,
drinking bitters as their other worlds are plundered. Others believe that, should Ravenna
be attacked, Alexius will finally make a serious move against the barbarians. |
| This planet contains some of the most striking geo- graphic features to be found on any of the Hawkwood controlled worlds: towering mountains and arid deserts vie with lush woodlands and sprawling plains. Although it supports a human population of less than half a billion, its mineral resources provide House Hawkwood with vital income. Many of the inhabitants work the mines of Ravenna and the planet houses several fine smiths and L artisans who shape the metals extracted from the earth into tools, weapons and decorative objects. Swords of Ravennan steel are among the favored weaponry of Hawkwood knights.As the birthplace of Emperor Alexius, who comes from Sardonia, its capital city, Ravenna has recently become inundated with visitors eager to see for themselves the place that gave birth to the Savior of the Empire. Hawkwood nobility often gathers on the grand estates that surround the environs of the capital to enjoy such pastimes as hunting, falconry contests and to test their prowess at riding the magnificent urrocs trained on the planet by members of House Trusnikron.In many ways, Ravenna is a showcase planet: technology levels for the peasantry are kept deliberately low to preserve the idyllic atmosphere of the villages that dot the countryside near the Hawkwood estates and preserves. The annual Craftsman's Fair held in the Agora in Sardonia draws visitors from throughout the Known Worlds to admire the local talent and purchase for themselves some unique example of "peasant craft."If the peasantry is unhappy with its enforced backwardness, it gives no sign of it, seeming content to toil under the gentle rule of its Hawkwood rulers. | |