Bannatyne

Bannatyne is Nova Azcoria's second largest city, located in the southern quarter of the Astios region in Eldham. The city is situated in the Bannatyne Province, an exclave of Nova Azcoria bordering the Goonguard.

The city is known for its many literary figures including writer Panorh, and its many merchants. With both ocean ports and river ports, the city entices visitors and trade from distant lands.

The city was originally ruled by the United Federation of Tierre, followed by the tyranical Empire of Ravenguard, yet achieved independence in September. Entering a new era of freedom and prosperity, the city pledges allegiance to The Republic of Nova Azcoria

Early History - July/August 2021
Long ago, the Banna people were travelling merchant nomads who roamed across many continents and seas. Eventually after many centuries of endless travel they chose to establish a city in the belief this would bring greater stability and prosperity to the Banna. They soon settled on the Island of Tyne. The Banna prospered and became incredibly wealthy thanks to their mercantile skills. However this wealth created jealousy among their neighbours who coveted the Banna’s great riches. One night as the Banna slept in their houses, raiders from the neighbouring nation broke into the city. These savages stole their many riches and attempted to enslave or murder anyone who tried to escape. However Tobias, a member of a wealthy merchant family, rallied a group of his citizens. They armed themselves with whatever they could find, leading a charge through the raiders and the group escaped the island. The following morning, Tobias held a meeting in which the survivors decided what to do. They concluded they would leave Tyne and sail to a new land, letting the wind guide them toward a new homeland. The survivors set sail and eventually landed at the end of a river. Here they chose to create farmland and over time a new city was built. They named it Bannatyne, in memory of their distant homeland.

The city was founded under the United Federation of Tierre (Later Renamed Solsguard), and within walking distance of the capital city of Visraya. In late July, the federation was "vassalised" by Ravenguard in an unlawful move to expand the empire's territory. During this period, the city became a trade hub for the region, soon to be known as the most active merchant city in the northern regions of Ravenguard. Merchants and bards travelled to the city from distant lands, creating a culture of wealth and literature. The city's early period is written about in numerable books and articles, including Panorh's 93 page book "Bannatyne's Mercy". The city soon developed its signature building style, influenced by both local and distant cities such as Nova Azcoria's Capital, Horizonte.

Nova Azcorian Influence - August-September 2021
In late August, the city of Bannatyne was invited into the Republic, voting in favour of becoming a province of the nation. For the price of $100,000, Bannatyne province was relinquised by the Empire of Goonguard (formerly Ravenguard), and entered the Republic as Nova Azcoria's second largest city. Today, Tierrean, Ravenguardian and Nova Azcorian influence remains, culminating a curious blend of tradition, culture and architecture.

Quiet Period - October-November 2021
In October, the city was given a new Governor, Gunk_Funk, appointed by the republic of Nova Azcoria. The city soon became quiet and somewhat inactive, seeing a decline in residents through ther autumn months. Many blame this period of inactivity on the new travel restructions placed upon Eldham, deeming the city inaccessible and disconnected from mainland Nova Azcoria. Despite the lack of trade, the city's quiet period has been described as peaceful and reflective, as local residents enjoyed the serene landscapes and winding streets of the city.

Winter Growth - Late November - Deceber 2021
During the winter, Bannatyne's original Mayor and Governor Tobias (___Alpha) returned from distant lands, reclaiming his position. Within a matter of weeks, the local population grew considerably, seeing the completion of Bannatyne's infamous defensive wall structure. Local businesses re-opened, welcoming new shops such as Eros General Goods. The previously incomplete Eastern Village witnessed rapid expansion, unveiling luxury neighborhood, "The Bagatelle". A variety of parks and green spaces were implemented, offering the city a new lease of life.

Ties to Nova Azcoria
In Bannatyne's early weeks, the rural and humble sandstone village became a well-known tourist destination amonst wealthy foreigners, yet attracted aristocratic residents of Horizonte. Somewhat resembling the style and format of Nova Azcoria's capital, the city of Bannatyne soon became a vacation hotspot amongst Azcorians, and a sunny surrogate for their home-city. Notable Azcorian Bannatyne property owners include: PayingForMcAgain, LilyMillie, and Gunk_Funk.

Following the town's growth, Azcorians took interest in the growing local economy and population, starting their own businesses in the city. Gunk_Funk's famous brewery remains today in the ground floor of Settler's Court, and Foie Gras Furnishings are known for decorating some of the city's most lavish apartments. Bonds between the two cities grew closer, seeing the Mayor of Bannatyne and several wealthy residents attend Nova Azcoia's independence marches.

In late August, the city of Bannatyne was invited into the Republic, voting in favour of becoming a province of the nation. For the price of $100,000, Bannatyne province was relinquised by the Empire of Goonguard (formerly Ravenguard), and entered the Republic as Nova Azcoria's second largest city. Today, Tierrean, Ravenguardian and Nova Azcorian influence remains, culminating a curious blend of tradition, culture and architecture.

Climate
Bannatyne's climate is predominantly hot and dry, maintaining an average daily temperature of 30° celcius. Harsh, desert winds are known to cause significant disruption in times of stormy weather, however the valley shelters large portions of the town from the violent gusts.