Aefenglom is made up of six districts - although, just previously it was only five - with no real, visible boundaries, but an understanding of where they start and begin.
✱ The Aristocratic District
✱ The Haven
✱ The Residential District
✱ The Entertainment District
✱ The Shopping District
✱ The Harbor District
At its founding, the Residential District took up much of the city, when there was no real Aristocratic District. However, as Parliament grew, so too did the upperclass.
Now, a portion of the Aristocratic District has been carved out to make room for the Haven. It's obvious how recent this new "district" is, as there are still many signs that this area was previously home to families, soldiers, schools, and shops.
Each district has at least one police station and a fire station, however there are small police boxes and resource centers scattered throughout the larger districts to ensure that there's some form of immediate response while waiting for a larger force to arrive to the scene. The largest hospital is part of the Aristocratic District, but smaller hospitals and civilian-run clinics can be found across the entirety of the city.
✱ The Aristocratic District
Well-lit with both the hum of electricity and the glow of magic alike, the Aristocratic District is naturally the most well-kept of the city, second only to the Bright Wall itself. In addition to housing some of the most influential people in Aefenglom, this district is where most important buildings are located - such as the Guilds, the Parliament and its Records, the Coven, and so on. Fitting with the "cleaner" look of the Aristocratic District, there is a notable lack of greenery and stray animals; trash cans are available almost anywhere you look, and the up-keep of them is constant. The residents of the Aristocratic District err on the eccentric side though, their houses sometimes multi-color (or multi-media, in what they're made of) but always crowding each other with their designs. They generally tend to have family affiliated with the Parliament in some way or another as well, rather than the Coven, though the same can't be said of those who work for them. Most of the Aristocratic District are human or human-passing; it's rare to see Monsters unless they're workers, with a Witch, or in the Coven.
✱ Parliament
The government head of the city, the Parliament is made up of some 350 members; their building is located square in the middle of the Aristocratic District, pentagonal in shape and incredibly tall. Made of fine quartz brick, the Parliament's building is where the laws of Aefenglom are formed and passed, where high-ranking court cases are brought to be inspected and judged, and where plans for protecting the city are officially made. Many of Parliament were born into wealthy families, and so rarely do any of them have official magical training, having devoted themselves to law books and legislative work instead. Still, they want to do what's best for the city as a whole, and meet daily to discuss things among themselves, and with the Coven's ambassador... though how much actually gets done, between so many people speaking and the priorities of Parliament as a whole, is up to debate.
✱ The Coven
The magical head of the city, the Coven in Aefenglom is the largest branch of the official Coven of Geargadas, and is generally considered its headquarters as a result. In contrast to the rest of the Aristocratic District, the Coven has a wide courtyard all the way around its building, and the building itself is made of serious grey brick and mortar. Despite the foreboding make of the Coven, with its tall towers and iron fences, the Witches (and students) are all quite affable, laughing among each other and getting into any number of accidents in their quest to broaden their magical knowledge. Monsters are more commonly seen in the Coven's grounds than anywhere else as well, due to many of them Bonding to the Witches within - or staying with the Coven until they can find one - as the living conditions there are superior to much else they can afford in the city. Magical gardens spring up all around the Coven with surprising speed and die at much the same rate, giving it an ever-shifting look, and classes are held both inside and out. The leader of the Coven, and often her fully-shifted Bonded, are fairly common sights on the grounds as well.
▪ The Looking-Glass House
A rather nondescript two-story cottage made of grey brick, The Looking-Glass House sits at the edge of The Coven's courtyard; stones which glow as you step on them mark the path to and from the two buildings. While fairly small and plain on the outside, the inside has been enchanted to be the size of a large library, with hundreds upon hundreds of mirrors hanging, standing, and resting inside its walls. Some are broken, some are cracked, and some seem completely uninjured - but all of them are just as plain as the cottage itself, showing age in the silver beneath their glass and in the greening of their metals... Well, all except a character's personal mirror; to characters, one mirror - the one they came through - will be decorated lavishly with metal-and-wood-wrought reminders of home, and the surface will be as clear as a brand-new mirror.
▪ Undermael College
One of the most prestigious schools on all of Geargadas, Undermael College has some of the largest and tallest buildings in Aefenglom - you can even see the spires of the main building from over the Bright Wall, or so it goes. Made of a myriad of different-colored bricks, with each graduating class being given a small section of their own to paint however they want, the college is also one of the most colorful areas of the city. A great deal of good old-fashioned book-learning goes on here, for all types of careers and programs (their medical and mortician programs are particularly good, given Heofonlic Hospital is in the area), and the majority of students are human. A handful of professors that teach here, either adjunct or full-time, also sit in the Parliament; and there are records that can be found in Undermael College that aren't in the Parliamentary Records proper.
▪ Heofonlic Hospital
Made of the same crisp opalescent brick the Bright Wall is built with, Heofonlic Hospital is the biggest and the best hospital in Aefenglom; all other hospitals in the city are branches off of it, and many apothecaries are at least affiliated or sponsored by it. Open to everyone, Heofonlic Hospital prides itself on both its non-magical and magical cures - it has a wealthy amount of Undermael graduates working with medicines, alchemy, and such to cure as much as possible, while Coven Witches specializing in evocation and abjuration do their best to take care of anything else, and those of more magical origin (like the Cwyld) as well.
▪ Parliamentary Records
Located within the Parliament, the Parliamentary Records are an archive that resides both above ground and under it, with vast differences in information available between the two. Above ground, one can find common history of the city, genealogical records, newspapers, recordings, and so forth; while underground, information deemed subjectively as "unimportant" by the Parliament resides. Both sides of the Records are lit naturally, one by large windows of both normal and colored glass variety, and the other by harmless fungus and moss that insists on making its home on bookcases and walls - some even hanging like lacy chandeliers from the archive's ceiling.
✱ The Haven
Formerly part of the Aristocratic District, The Haven is just as well-kept and brightly-lit as the district it hails from. The houses err on the tall and ornamental-side, large enough to fit several families (or, according to the upper class, their one family, several dozen servants, and guests), especially closest to the Aristocratic District. They become a little more modest and smaller as one gets away from the realm of high society and nearer to the Residential District proper. Newcomers are shuffled here and invited to find somewhere to live - the Coven is currently handling expenses for the houses themselves in an program implemented by the Parliament, though if your character wishes to have anything extra - like maids, chefs, and so on - they'll have to pay for them themselves with their own earned money. Much of the landscape and fixtures are the same as in the Aristocratic District, though it lacks formal emergency services due to its roots as part of a district that already did. Much of the housing already has furnishing due to the speed at which homeowners were relocated; they were given enough time to collect their valuables, but standard furniture such as kitchenware, couches, beds, etc. were left behind for those moving in. Other houses appear the same, but the dust on the floors suggest these houses were left before the new arrivals even showed up - a reminder that the Cwyld can strike just about anyone, regardless of standing.
To claim a home in The Haven, or anywhere else in Aefenglom, you can do so on the HOUSING SPREADSHEET. Read the legend carefully and contact anyone you might want to room with, or just take a smaller place of residence if your character is the type to go at it alone!
The Haven can also house PC Businesses, should they work out of their home or somewhere near it - those are found just below:
Haven Area Businesses
▪ VII Notes
It's a music teaching business! Elliot teaches both PCs and NPCs different music instruments, either in one-on-one or in small groups. The current list of instruments are violin, recorder, piano and guitar- with future additions in the future. Violin and recorder lessons will take place in a room he set up in the barracks, while piano and guitar lessons will take place at the music school thanks to lack of equipment.
Fees for lessons will vary on person's income and what they're looking to learn. He'll give discount rates for lower income people and if you want to do a group lesson, but if you're pretty wealthy, well... he's gotta make a living somehow ok.
▪ Aefenglom Bracer Guild
Aefenglom's Bracer Guild is an unaffiliated organization devoted to protecting civilians and maintaining the stability within the region. They exist to aid the community as a whole whether it's finding lost items (or cats), preventing or responding to crime, escorting people or goods-- whatever it is, they'll do their best to support you and see the task completed!
For a small fee you can have your request posted on the large bulletin boards in this quaint office space. In order to submit a request, you need two things-- a detailed explanation of what you want done (as well as any specific instructions as to how you'd like it done) and a reward for the individual(s) who will take care of the quest for you. The reward doesn't have to be money either-- it could just as easily be an item or goods.
Towa's tea and cookies are entirely free too, so please enjoy them.
▪ The Phoenix Tear
Making use of his skills and abilities honed over the years, Newt is opening a clinic that emphasizes on helping others in a multitude of ways. Witches and Monsters welcomed, but an emphasis on helping Monsters. The clinic offers accommodations for short stays and longer stays to help those in need and might want assistance in acclimating to Aefenglom and/or their monster transformations. Newt's quite knowledgeable of beasts, flora, and fauna to help in anyway possible. The clinic serves as a bit like an inn or shelter, but ultimately is a clinic. Clinic services include from healing magic to more old-fashioned remedies, potions, and poultices.
Located in the Barracks, instead of using large portions of the Barracks, Newt has used expansion magic to make the place larger inside than it seems from the outside. The place is divided up and features different environments to better accommodate the particulars from Monster to Monster.
▪ Desmodus Mori
Desmodus Mori, or simply Desmodus as its patrons may refer to it, is a small Vampire-focused bar and restaurant located west of the Coven and south of the Parliament, a few blocks away from the bank of the river Temese. Its stoop its crammed in the space between two large buildings, taking up what appears from the outside to be the alleyway between them. If not for discrete signage, which heralds in Geardagas native and Mirrorbound both, it could be mistaken for the door to a simple storehouse. However, opening the door on the street leads to a set of wooden stairs leading downwards to a mid-sized establishment spread out in the basement area of both neighboring buildings.
Any Vampire or dark-loving patron worth their salt would be pleased to say that despite its catering to the undead, Desmodus couldn't be more of a social spot for those with an interest leaning more to that nature, be it personal or fetishistic -- that said, Desmodus is meant to be an upper-class establishment catering to vampires and their bonds or friends and is not to be mistaken for some sort of kink club, brothel, or other part of the city's red light district. However, the private stalls and locked room are in the bar for a reason, and no questions are asked as to what goes on in those areas. After all, this is a bar for vampires - touch and lust and oral fixation and a general interest in physicality comes with the territory.
▪ Insomniac Delivery + Argentum Photos
Run by Prompto Argentum, Insomniac Delivery hopes to encourage other Mirrorbound entrepreneurs by catering to them and their needs. For a reasonable fee, Insomniac Delivery promises to get your goods and messages wherever they need to be in the city before closing time! He will also deliver things to and for those other services may be wary of (within reason, he's not going into a plague house guys).
Also run by Prompto Argentum, Argentum Photos brings the wonders of magical digital technology to Aefenglom! For posters, memories, or just for fun, Argentum Photos will work with you to make sure every shot is perfect.
▪ DiplomaTea
A Florist and Tea Shop, located on a street corner in The Haven. The main entrance leads into a cozy store, well arranged and tidy, though flower arrangements cover nearly every possible surface. There's a fenced off, covered porch along the sidewalk, giving a pleasant outdoor space to sit for a cup of tea. The porch includes a gate to enter and exit from and a small stage to accommodate a single performer with a compact instrument. Inside the shop is a long bar to take orders for fresh brewed tea and to make sales.
In addition to functioning as a small cafe, the shop will sell; flower arrangements, tins of various tea blends, tea supplies, and other folksy, homegrown items. Everett will be stocking the shop from his own home garden and growing some items on property using his Faun magic. He'll also sell hand-rolled cigarettes and cigars, made with fresh grown tobacco, but these are only available upon request. He does not stock any on the shelves.
There is also a cellar, of which Everett is setting aside for. Additional activities. Ask him in person about that, to the casual observer, it is merely more storage space.
▪ A. Z. Fell and Co.
A book zoo library with a little tea shop attached to it! Nothing fancy, the entrance will mostly look like his old bookshop. This time he's learnt his lesson, though, and he's refusing to sell any of his books- but everyone is more than happy to come peruse them at their leisure and have a nice time.
A big tea shop with lots and lots of tea and pastry and shelves full of books for people to peruse. Aziraphale has gone out of his way to gather a big combination of local books, book from his world and, thanks to the help of people who offered to help, books from all of different worlds people have come from so everyone will find something to read!
And he promises to keep decent opening hours, this time.
▪ The Forge
Just past the limits of the Outer City, built on a patch of meticulously-cleared land free from the Cwyld, the Forge is a mixture of Aefenglom's more modern blacksmithing methods and old-world Viking style. Though it was originally built by Hiccup, it's primarily 'staffed' by him and Percy, who offer their services to Mirrorbound creating weapons, ammunition, armor, and inventions, along with enchantments on said items. The forge itself is also freely available for use as long as drop-ins follow the posted rules and provide their own materials.
Just don't disturb the dragons.
▪ Paws for a Cause
Paws for a Cause (or "the Shelter", as Hector will exclusively call it) is a non-profit organization devoted to the care of animal life within Aefenglom. It serves as a shelter for stray animals in need of homes or wild creatures requiring medical attention.
The shelter will turn no animal away, and screens all potential adopters to ensure that the animals' new homes will be suitable. Adoptions are free (though donations are always encouraged), and although the shelter can't pay a salary, volunteer positions are available for vets, pet-walkers, cleaners, etc. Because really, getting to spend time with animals is its own reward!
✱ The Residential District
The Residential District is technically split in two by the River Temese. While they share some of the same general characteristics, such as greenhouses protruding from the roofs and sides of the buildings where they can be managed, both sides have some differences unique to them:
▪ Eastern Residential
Closest to the Aristocratic District and the Haven in the north, its houses tend to be of a modest-size and very well-kept; most of the aristocratic population was shuffled here, and their original owners moved across the river. The spottiest parts are closer to the Bright Wall itself, whose upkeep has been prioritized over simple housing. More Monsters live - or rather, squat - in the houses over that way, though their population is still minimal compared to humans on this side - about one Monster to five humans, just about.
▪ Western Residential
Across the River Temese, the houses of this side of the district retain a modest-size, but are in worse condition - some even in genuine decay at the furthest side, closest to the Bright Wall. The edge by the Harbor District suffers graffiti, lowlifes looking for a quick buck or a fresh face, sailors sleeping drunk wherever their feet land them, and whispers of discontent. In general, the Western Residential District is the half of the city most displeased by the changes made - as a good portion of them lived on the Eastern side of the river and were shuffled over here, overcrowding an already fairly populated area. Most Monsters live on this side, still outnumbering humans four to one, and tend to group in neighborhoods together.
✱ The Entertainment District
Colorful beyond belief, the Entertainment District of Aefenglom has it all - bars, clubs, gambling dens, miniature cockatrice fights, painting classes, music singing around every corner, melding together magically into something symphonic rather than the cacophony one might expect from so many different songs playing against each other, and more. The only thing the district doesn't have are working theaters; the ones that are in business are actually music halls, dedicated to housing orchestral performances, choral arrangements, and so forth. Theaters for plays exist, but the majority are shutdown and marked off, with "do not enter" signs nailed to their doors; they're rundown and usually house more than a couple of street-rats and characters of ill-breeding. A few of them have had some recent revival as a trendy place to live, being transformed into an interesting housing building with only their grandiose size and stage hinting at what they once were. The red-light district, with its gentlemen's clubs, cabarets, and other more promiscuous establishments, is tucked against the river, on the edge bordering the Shopping District.
Entertainment District Businesses
▪ Dulcet
A bar and cafe in the more fancy side of the Entertainment district that's often a popular date spot. It's notable for two things. One is its sugary menu, serving pastries, cakes, cookies, and very sweet drinks.
The second is its unique troupe of night entertainment, because all singers and performers employed by Dulcet weave spells and magic into their performances. Merrows who use a dampened version of their siren's song (water accommodations provided for them, of course), arachnes weaving colorful patterns to the beat, elemental witches using water and fire as they dance, and so on.
▪ Divination Station (What's Your Preoccupation?)
A small business that almost evades the eye, Divination Station's enchanted to draw the attention of potential customers yearning for clarity. Sitting within is a small yet bold Witch with a serious air named Ewan, possessing a vast background in Divination. His wide grey eyes are described as focusing on something beyond his customers. Accompanying him are his two Bonded: a friendly, white-furred Puca named Callahan who rivals Ewan in size, and a far taller, sharp-featured Harpy with plumage of black named Riona. Ewan provides all of the staples of Divination to the highest caliber: mirror scrying, dream reading, fortune telling, and so on. Together, they'll provide any manner of divination services with startling (if not cryptic) accuracy, with Ewan relying on the talents of his Bonded to detect lies, danger, and more.
Their hours of operation can be a bit unpredictable... but they always seem to be open when business is most fruitful. The establishment itself is intimate and thoroughly decorated, charged with magic, crystals, beads, and magical instruments aplenty. Candles and incense are a given, their fragrance not overwhelming, but still detectable even outside the shop. Callahan and Riona make sure that curious customers know that Ewan named the place: "he has a dry sense of humor."
▪ Fabiano's Finesse
Situated right in the middle of Entertainment district Fabiano's Finesse is a gym/fashion boutique for the bountifully equipped.
During the day, it is a very regular gym offering weight and strength training, boxing classes, running a bulletin board for finding your best sparring partner and similar services. There are also dancing classes for less violently inclined in ranging from ballroom to ballet. Next to the main training hall, where all the real action is going on, there is a small boutique section complete with four changing rooms and huge floor to ceiling mirrors.
Come nightfall, the whole place transforms into modern and experimental fashion temple hosting regular shows, photoshoots and discussions about what's hip and fresh in the industry. It's a good place to start your modelling career, especially if you're a plus-size person as the owner is known for his fondness of all things Larger Than Life. Traditionally, all his models are either beefed up mountains of muscle or just big boys, girls, and everything in between. True Art does not care for labels!
▪ Fushimi
A small, clean izakaya-style bar in the entertainment district for anyone looking to start their night of barhopping or take a breather after a day of work. The varied menu includes a set of rotating daily specials, including vegetarian options and desserts. The chef, Saori Nakagawa, recommends the Japanese style curry.
Seating options are at the bar, where customers can watch the dishes being made or tables. Customers may also order smoked meats, curry, or desserts in advance to take home.
▪ Purramid Cafe
Nestled within the Entertainment District is the Purramid Cafe, a casual spot that patrons will find works well as a place to meet friends, have a date night, or even get some studying done. Or if you're the sort that can't own a pet, the stars of the cafe will certainly keep you company. On the menu at present are various coffee and tea beverages, although Ozymandias has intentions of expanding the drink menu to include adult beverages. Snacks range from sweet pastries to savory breakfast sandwiches. And yes, much like the name of the cafe itself, the entire menu is cat-based and Egyptian-based puns. One may also purchase catmint and treats to use with the sphinx awlad or with your own feline friends at home, turnskin and pets alike! Lastly, there is a sign in front of a pyramid-shaped jar on the counter kindly reminding you to please tip your purrista! In addition to being patrons, there are opportunities to enter into business partnerships and/or posting fliers. Please see the information post for more details!
▪ Worse Dragon
Worse Dragon is an adult store run by a forward-thinking Witch, Shareen, and her Arachne Bondmate Mila. Sex toys, lingerie, accessories and lubricants are all available for purchase, with lines offering a strongly inclusive selection accommodating the needs of both humans and Monsters. Toys are equally inclusive — these come in varying sizes spanning all human and Monster types of genitalia.
The boutique recently underwent a makeover spearheaded by employee Nicoletta Goldstein, and now offers twice-monthly seminars aimed at providing helpful information for Monsters adjusting to transformed intimacy. These two hour sessions are held on the evenings of the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, with the first session focusing on Naga, Merrow, Harpie, Fae, and Arachnae type Monsters, and the second focusing on Dragon, Turnskin, Chimera, Vampire, Faun, and Puca type Monsters. Witches and partners welcome!
Bespoke magitech toys are available on request, with one slot available per month. Please contact Nicoletta Goldstein here to discuss commissions.
▪ Tailor & Yagami Investigations
A humble storefront in the Entertainment District is home to a private investigation business run by a Bonded pair of witches. They're a study in contrasts; one is polished, well-groomed, charming and handsome, and the other one is owlish, spooky and off-putting, but their intuition and wit are solid, and more so together. Such polar opposites are bound to bicker at times, and do, but there's never been a time where they haven't been able to put those differences aside for their common goal. (Not in Aefenglom, at least.)
✱ The Shopping District
A curious district that starts off colorful by the border it shares with the Entertainment District and that gradually fades out further away from that edge, ending up paler in coloration closer to the Harbor District. Shops for just about anything can be found here. Pets, tools, instruments, art, weapons, kitchenware, stationary - name it, and it's likely somewhere. Specialty shops for enchantments, runeworking, alchemy, and apothecaries unsanctioned by the Coven are found on the south side of the Shopping District, the way into their magical little sector characterized by the vines crawling through the cracks of buildings and an alleyway lit by glowing blossoms that seems to stretch on forever.
Shopping District Businesses
▪ Precogstitchin'
A quaint little tailor shop with big dreams down by the south side of the Shopping District. Upon first glance, it doesn't seem like anything particularly out of the ordinary, except the suits and gowns displayed on the mannequins in the store windows are always a little... "avant garde," shall we say. The silhouettes are never what is considered the height of fashion at the time; the patterns might be attractive, but rarely in the colors that are currently in style. But give it six months and suddenly those are the things everyone who is anyone is clamoring for.
The mousy divination witch that is the brains behind this operation is very proud of her literally-forward-thinking work, though she is always longing for the next Big Thing. Fashion never rests!
Additionally, the witch is Bonded to an arachne, who - for a hefty sum - will weave some arachne silk into your character's requested clothes. This will make them much tougher, akin to something like leather armor.
▪ Particularly Good Finders
Operating out of a comfortably cramped (and perpetually cluttered) office-front in the heart of the Shopping District, the Particularly Good Finders detective agency provides private investigation services for any case requiring shrewdness, discretion, or a general capacity for shenanigans. Although specializing in locating and recovering missing property, the agency will consider taking on any case that offers the potential for an interesting distraction--or at least a good chase. They also will pay upfront for gossip or information that might help drum up new business or an intriguing lead!
The eponymous Finders consist of three street-smart puca, who are undeniably in business more for the thrill than to make a profit. They exist in a perpetual state of cold war with their neighbors and landlord, most of whom will readily insist that the agency causes more chaos and suspiciously missing goods than it could ever hope to solve. (If asked, the Finders will deny everything and add that the mouthy party deserved it, besides.)
▪ Life's Playthings
It's a toy store! It sells handcrafted toys made by Near or various people he's outsourced to from around town. There are wooden toys, puzzles, games, plushes, and various other items. It also has a stock of candy at the counter to tempt you on the way out.
The building itself is two stories and slightly rundown, though it has had recent repairs. Near's workroom is in the back on the first floor. The front awning is painted in bright colors and there is a sign with a stuffed bear and building blocks on it for those who can't read the name.
▪ Daemonologie
This is a store specializing in magical animals and their byproducts! The main attraction is a selection of creatures for sale that are marketed as prime familiars but other major draws include prized animal products (such as scales, feathers, eggs, etc.) along with various magic supplies that the store tends to buy from merchants in the harbor or sporadic unidentified sellers. As such there's little consistency in these particular items and weekly specials are common.
In addition to relying on the patronage of witches the store also maintains an open-door policy with monsters, in particular catering to and allowing vampires. The selling of fresh animal blood isn't kept a secret and it's led to a string of loyal customers that value the discretion with which they're able to conduct their business.
The owner himself is a particularly sociable vampire named Abbott, always well-dressed and constantly checking his gold pocket watch as if he's in a terrible hurry. He regularly refers to his Bonded – named "Dale" – but this person has never been seen.
✱ The Harbor District
While not the worst area in Aefenglom, the Harbor District isn't the most glorious, either; it's dirty and smelly, with the stink of sea and her sailors, the unwashed bodies of workers of both human and Monster make, and the smokestacks of the factories and other industrial buildings that call the district home. Many of the middle- to lower-class work here if they don't own their own shop or business, starting early in the morning and working late into the night for just enough cunes to put dinner on the table. Orphanages also are easy to spot in this district, usually close to a factory where the children can walk and earn some cunes - given the patron of their shelter is, generally speaking, the well-off factory owner.
Harbor District Businesses
▪ The Sly Seadog
A run-down little dive of a tavern, found along a narrow back-alley in the harbour, frequented by sailors, welcoming to Monsters and humans alike, and as rowdy as one would expect of a place like this. It's a good place to go for cheap drinks and lively banter, as long as you don't mind the odd fight or two breaking out!
▪ Inkchanted
Located in an old workshop renovated by diligent work of the two owners, Cu Chulainn and Waver Welvet, and their many helpers, the parlor offers enchanted tattoos both to Monsters and Witches, which grant either access to simple spells (light spell that generates a ball of light for the user, or slowfall spell that allows safely land from dangerous heights), resistances (against elements, but also against manipulation and compulsion spells), and low-level evocation spells allowing the control of chosen element. (Healing and shield spells to be expanded soon, will be updated for full list of spells available on a later date)
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CHARACTER BUSINESSES
no subject
Business Name: Aefenglom Bracer Guild
District: The Haven
Short description: Aefenglom's Bracer Guild is an unaffiliated organization devoted to protecting civilians and maintaining the stability within the region. They exist to aid the community as a whole whether it's finding lost items (or cats), preventing or responding to crime, escorting people or goods-- whatever it is, they'll do their best to support you and see the task completed!
For a small fee you can have your request posted on the large bulletin boards in this quaint office space. In order to submit a request, you need two things-- a detailed explanation of what you want done (as well as any specific instructions as to how you'd like it done) and a reward for the individual(s) who will take care of the quest for you. The reward doesn't have to be money either-- it could just as easily be an item or goods.
Towa's tea and cookies are entirely free too, so please enjoy them.
And our handy-dandy Business Information Post!
no subject
Business Name: The Phoenix Tear
District: The Haven
Short description: Making use of his skills and abilities honed over the years, Newt is opening a clinic that emphasizes on helping others in a multitude of ways. Witches and Monsters welcomed, but an emphasis on helping Monsters. The clinic offers accommodations for short stays and longer stays to help those in need and might want assistance in acclimating to Aefenglom and/or their monster transformations. Newt's quite knowledgeable of beasts, flora, and fauna to help in anyway possible. The clinic serves as a bit like an inn or shelter, but ultimately is a clinic. Clinic services include from healing magic to more old-fashioned remedies, potions, and poultices.
Located in the Barracks, instead of using large portions of the Barracks, Newt has used expansion magic to make the place larger inside than it seems from the outside. The place is divided up and features different environments to better accommodate the particulars from Monster to Monster.
An information post exists that I'll try and do my best to update as regularly as possible.
no subject
Business Name: Insomniac Delivery + Argentum Photos
District: The Haven (for now)
Short description: A rough info post, but a blurb for the locations page:
Run by Prompto Argentum, Insomniac Delivery hopes to encourage other Mirrorbound entrepreneurs by catering to them and their needs. For a reasonable fee, Insomniac Delivery promises to get your goods and messages wherever they need to be in the city before closing time! He will also deliver things to and for those other services may be wary of (within reason, he's not going into a plague house guys).
Also run by Prompto Argentum, Argentum Photos brings the wonders of magical digital technology to Aefenglom! For posters, memories, or just for fun, Argentum Photos will work with you to make sure every shot is perfect.
no subject
Business Name: DiplomaTea
District: The Haven
Short description: A Florist and Tea Shop, located on a street corner in The Haven. The main entrance leads into a cozy store, well arranged and tidy, though flower arrangements cover nearly every possible surface. There's a fenced off, covered porch along the sidewalk, giving a pleasant outdoor space to sit for a cup of tea. The porch includes a gate to enter and exit from and a small stage to accommodate a single performer with a compact instrument. Inside the shop is a long bar to take orders for fresh brewed tea and to make sales.
In addition to functioning as a small cafe, the shop will sell; flower arrangements, tins of various tea blends, tea supplies, and other folksy, homegrown items. Everett will be stocking the shop from his own home garden and growing some items on property using his Faun magic. He'll also sell hand-rolled cigarettes and cigars, made with fresh grown tobacco, but these are only available upon request. He does not stock any on the shelves.
There is also a cellar, of which Everett is setting aside for. Additional activities. Ask him in person about that, to the casual observer, it is merely more storage space.
Full Business Information is here, which will be updated regularly!
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Business Name: A. Z. Fell and Co.
District: The Haven
Short description:
A
book zoolibrary with a little tea shop attached to it! Nothing fancy, the entrance will mostly look like his old bookshop. This time he's learnt his lesson, though, and he's refusing to sell any of his books- but everyone is more than happy to come peruse them at their leisure and have a nice time.A big tea shop with lots and lots of tea and pastry and shelves full of books or people to peruse. Aziraphale has gone out of his way to gather a big combination of local books, book from his world and, thanks to the help of people who offered to help, books from all of different worlds people have come from so everyone will find something to read!
And he promises to keep decent opening hours, this time.
A little info page that I shall try to keep updated
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Business Name: The Forge
District: Outer City technically
Short description: Just past the limits of the Outer City, built on a patch of meticulously-cleared land free from the Cwyld, the Forge is a mixture of Aefenglom's more 'modern' blacksmithing methods and old-world Viking style. Though it was originally built by Hiccup, it's primarily 'staffed' by him and Percy, who function as independent contractors and offer their services to Mirrorbound creating weapons, ammunition, armor, and inventions, along with enchantments on said items. The forge itself is also freely available for use as long as walk-ins follow the posted rules and provide their own materials. Just don't disturb the dragons.
Info link here!
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Business Name: Inkchanted
District: Harbor
Short description: Located in an old workshop renovated by diligent work of the two owners, Cu Chulainn and Waver Velvet, and their many helpers, the parlor offers enchanted tattoos both to Monsters and Witches, which grant either access to simple spells (light spell that generates a ball of light for the user, or slowfall spell that allows safely land from dangerous heights), resistances (against elements, but also against manipulation and compulsion spells), and low-level evocation spells allowing the control of chosen element. (Healing and shield spells to be expanded soon, will be updated for full list of spells available on a later date)
The spells on offer are in two forms: painted (cheaper, but have a limited number of use after which they will disappear) and tattooed (the more expensive but also more long-term option; the tattoos have limited amount of time they can stay active, between 15 to 30 hours total, after which the tattoo will eventually fade and need to be redone. That means more situational spells, like protection from fire that is only activated when dealing with fire and then deactivated is going to last much longer than a light spell someone uses every night to read for an hour)
The parlour itself consists of a large lobby with two comfortable couches for waiting customers. Everywhere on the walls there are framed drawings of tattoo designs on offer. Upon asking any of the Inkchanted staff will produce a small book containing all of the currently offered patterns as well as an accompanying list of spells to peruse. With an option to speak with the designer, none other than Waver's Bonded Iskandar, shall the customer wish a patterned devised specifically for them. It is, however, a more expensive option.
For those without the means to charge the spells contained in the tatoos there are magical batteries of many shapes and forms presented in the display cases strategically placed under the framed designs. Jewellery, hair accessories and other personal items in styles suitable both for ladies and gentlemen. All of them works of dragon blacksmith known simply as Archer. Though reserved and a man of few words, the craftsman can be convinced to make a special order upon request.
An entrance at the very end of the lobby leads to a small but well-lit room where the service takes place. There's a heavy curtain on the window to shield it from the outside world for additional privacy. This room is Cu Chulainn's dominion as it is he who performs the actual tattooing for all the clients.
Those in possession of a sharp eye or just more vigilant would notice that the whole building is heavily warded, door frames and window sills have been purposefully made sturdier. The only access to the upper floor is one small staircase with ceiling hanging lower that one would expect in such a space, hidden in the darkest corner of the lobby.
A handy gallery for visual reference
—Staff list
Cú Chulainn - tattooing, enchanting spells, alchemy research, founder
Waver Velvet - alchemy research and mixing the inks, painting designs, books, founder
Iskandar - tattooing, enchanting spells, design
Yona - painting designs, apprentice tattoo artist, enchanting
Soren - administration, reception
Alex Benedetto - administration, reception
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Business Name: "Paws for a Cause"
District: Haven
Short description: Paws for a Cause (or "the Shelter", as Hector will exclusively call it) is a non-profit organization devoted to the care of animal life within Aefenglom. It serves as a shelter for stray animals in need of homes or wild creatures requiring medical attention.
The shelter will turn no animal away, and screens all potential adopters to ensure that the animals' new homes will be suitable. Adoptions are free (though donations are always encouraged), and although the shelter can't pay a salary, volunteer positions are available for vets, pet-walkers, cleaners, etc. Because really, getting to spend time with animals is its own reward!
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Business Name: Life's Playthings
District: Northeast section of the Shopping District
Short description: It's a toy store! It sells handcrafted toys made by Near or various people he's outsourced to from around town. There are wooden toys, puzzles, games, plushes, and various other items. It also has a stock of candy at the counter to tempt you on the way out.
The building itself is two stories and slightly rundown, though it has had recent repairs. Near's workroom is in the back on the first floor. The front awning is painted in bright colors and there is a sign with a stuffed bear and building blocks on it for those who can't read the name.
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Business Name: Purramid Cafe
District: Entertainment
Short description: Nestled within the Entertainment District is the Purramid Cafe, a casual spot that patrons will find works well as a place to meet friends, have a date night, or even get some studying done. Or if you're the sort that can't own a pet, the stars of the cafe will certainly keep you company. On the menu at present are various coffee and tea beverages, although Ozymandias has intentions of expanding the drink menu to include adult beverages. Snacks range from sweet pastries to savory breakfast sandwiches. And yes, much like the name of the cafe itself, the entire menu is cat-based and Egyptian-based puns. One may also purchase catmint and treats to use with the sphinx awlad or with your own feline friends at home, turnskin and pets alike! Lastly, there is a sign in front of a pyramid-shaped jar on the counter kindly reminding you to please tip your purrista! In addition to being patrons, there are opportunities to enter into business partnerships and/or posting fliers. Please see the information post for more details!
An information post is located here
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Business Name: Fushimi
District: Entertainment
Short description: A small, clean izakaya-style bar in the entertainment district for anyone looking to start their night of barhopping or take a breather after a day of work. The varied menu includes a set of rotating daily specials, including vegetarian options and desserts. The chef recommends the Japanese style curry.
Seating options are at the bar, where customers can watch the dishes being made or tables. Customers may also order smoked meats, curry, or desserts in advance to take home.
Info page is in the works.
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Business Name: Tailor & Yagami Investigations
District: Entertainment
Short description: A humble storefront in the Entertainment District is home to a private investigation business run by a Bonded pair of witches. They're a study in contrasts; one is polished, well-groomed, charming and handsome, and the other one is owlish, spooky and off-putting, but their intuition and wit are solid, and more so together. Such polar opposites are bound to bicker at times, and do, but there's never been a time where they haven't been able to put those differences aside for their common goal. (Not in Aefenglom, at least.)
NPC BUSINESSES
We'll reach out to you if we think any information should be adjusted, so that we can work together on making sure it's the best business around! (Or, one of them, anyways.)
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District: Shopping
Short description: A quaint little tailor shop with big dreams down by the south side of the Shopping District. Upon first glance, it doesn't seem like anything particularly out of the ordinary, except the suits and gowns displayed on the mannequins in the store windows are always a little... "avant garde," shall we say. The silhouettes are never what is considered the height of fashion at the time; the patterns might be attractive, but rarely in the colors that are currently in style. But give it six months and suddenly those are the things everyone who is anyone is clamoring for.
The mousy divination witch that is the brains behind this operation is very proud of her literally-forward-thinking work, though she is always longing for the next Big Thing. Fashion never rests!
(Optional addition: the witch is bonded to an arachne, who for a hefty sum will weave some arachne silk into your character's requested clothes, making them much tougher, akin to something like leather armor)
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District: Haven
Short description: It's a music teaching business! Elliot teaches both PCs and NPCs different music instruments, either in one-on-one or in small groups. The current list of instruments are violin, recorder, piano and guitar- with future additions in the future. Violin and recorder lessons will take place in a room he set up in the barracks, while piano and guitar lessons will take place at the music school thanks to lack of equipment.
Fees for lessons will vary on person's income and what they're looking to learn. He'll give discount rates for lower income people and if you want to do a group lesson, but if you're pretty wealthy, well...he's gotta make a living somehow ok.
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Upcharge the rich, Elliot.no subject
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District: Harbor
Short description: This isn't a player-run business, but as we discussed on the plotting post, I'm adding it in anyway! It's a run-down little dive of a tavern, found along a narrow back-alley in the harbour, frequented by sailors, welcoming to Monsters and humans alike, and as rowdy as one would expect of a place like this. It's a good place to go for cheap drinks and lively banter, as long as you don't mind the odd fight or two breaking out! Julian currently works here!
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District: I'd originally imagined it as being hidden in the basement of a building along the river in the Aristocratic district, south of the Parliament and west of the Coven, but if that isn't possible then maybe the entertainment district, near the river, right along the border with the aristocratic district?
Short description: I already posted it in the discord recently, but I wrote up some ideas about it here!
Also - I think the blood donation thing could be a fantastic quest for October, especially after the goblin/black market controversy of selling blood of questionable origin! The bar prides itself on serving blood that was provided 100% voluntarily and IMO would probably loudly advertise this fact following the appearance of the markets?
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District: Entertainment
Short description: A bar and cafe in the more fancy side of the Entertainment district that's often a popular date spot. It's notable for two things. One is its sugary menu, serving pastries, cakes, cookies, and very sweet drinks.
The second is its unique troupe of night entertainment, because all singers and performers employed by Dulcet weave spells and magic into their performances. Merrows who use a dampened version of their siren's song (water accommodations provided for them, of course), arachnes weaving colorful patterns to the beat, elemental witches using water and fire as they dance, and so on.
Credit to Love for the initial idea o/ It was so cute I wanted to flesh it out
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Business Name: Particularly Good Finders
District: Shopping
Short description: Operating out of a comfortably cramped (and perpetually cluttered) office-front in the heart of the Shopping District, the Particularly Good Finders detective agency provides private investigation services for any case requiring shrewdness, discretion, or a general capacity for shenanigans. Although specializing in locating and recovering missing property, the agency will consider taking on any case that offers the potential for an interesting distraction--or at least a good chase. They also will pay upfront for gossip or information that might help drum up new business or an intriguing lead!
The eponymous Finders consist of three street-smart puca, who are undeniably in business more for the thrill than to make a profit. They exist in a perpetual state of cold war with their neighbors and landlord, most of whom will readily insist that the agency causes more chaos and suspiciously missing goods than it could ever hope to solve. (If asked, the Finders will deny everything and add that the mouthy party deserved it, besides.)
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District: Entertainment District, red-light district specifically
Short description: Run by a forward-thinking Witch, Shareen, and her Arachne Bondmate, Mila, Worse Dragon is a hole-in-the-wall adult store that sells sex toys, accessories, lube, lingerie, and literature. Inside, the business is warm, cozy, and inviting. Handcrafted dildos and masturbators with painstaking attention to detail line the walls, showcasing custom-made models ranging from human genitalia to all Monster types, in various sizes. Clothing may be tried on in the changing rooms toward the back of the store. The married couple advertises for Worse Dragon through tasteful, enchanted posters around Aefenglom, which animate when viewed from different angles (posters are blank if anyone under eighteen tries to look at them).
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District: Entertainment
Short description: A small business that almost evades the eye, Divination Station's enchanted to draw the attention of potential customers yearning for clarity. Sitting within is a small yet bold Witch with a serious air named Ewan, possessing a vast background in Divination. His wide grey eyes are described as focusing on something beyond his customers. Accompanying him are his two Bonded: a friendly, white-furred Puca named Callahan who rivals Ewan in size, and a far taller, sharp-featured Harpy with plumage of black named Riona. Ewan provides all of the staples of Divination to the highest caliber: mirror scrying, dream reading, fortune telling, and so on. Together, they'll provide any manner of divination services with startling (if not cryptic) accuracy, with Ewan relying on the talents of his Bonded to detect lies, danger, and more.
Their hours of operation can be a bit unpredictable... but they always seem to be open when business is most fruitful. The establishment itself is intimate and thoroughly decorated, charged with magic, crystals, beads, and magical instruments aplenty. Candles and incense are a given, their fragrance not overwhelming, but still detectable even outside the shop. Callahan and Riona make sure that curious customers know that Ewan named the place: "he has a dry sense of humor."
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District: Shopping
Short description: This is a store specializing in magical animals and their byproducts! The main attraction is a selection of creatures for sale that are marketed as prime familiars but other major draws include prized animal products (such as scales, feathers, eggs, etc.) along with various magic supplies that the store tends to buy from merchants in the harbor or sporadic unidentified sellers. As such there's little consistency in these particular items and weekly specials are common.
In addition to relying on the patronage of witches the store also maintains an open-door policy with monsters, in particular catering to and allowing vampires. The selling of fresh animal blood isn't kept a secret and it's led to a string of loyal customers that value the discretion with which they're able to conduct their business.
The owner himself is a particularly sociable vampire named Abbott, always well-dressed and constantly checking his gold pocket watch as if he's in a terrible hurry. He regularly refers to his Bonded – named "Dale" – but this person has never been seen.
i hope this is okay, bc it's not a business but a building!!
District: Haven
Short description: A humble church with a very small congregation, the Kirk is a place of worship for all individuals of all denominations in Aefenglom. While its main function was to act as a hub for the praising of the Twin Moons and Fae folk, the era of its deferential close-mindedness ended when the family whose ancestors built the church passed away. Now, it exists as a safe haven for anyone in need of guidance. Its halls are dimly lit and decorated simply, but its history is clear in the stained glass windows and the carvings beyond its altar. There is a cellar where miscellany is kept (some old casks of aged wine as well as moth-bitten religious texts), and a loft at the front that currently functions as a rudimentary aviary.
The Kirk is run by a middle-aged priest named Arbiter Pritchard, a Witch whose personal beliefs—that in death the Sisters will raise him high in their service for not selfishly seeking corruptive power in life—prohibit him from using magic, known for never having cast a single spell. This is quite the exaggeration, as he studied divination in his youth, but the rumour persists. Terribly old-fashioned, he doesn't have a Bonded. Instead, he takes care of many, many bird familiars who hang in and around the Kirk at all hours of the day. They are clean, well-trained, and will come when called—if you're polite and bring them offerings.
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District: Entertainment, in a building owned by brothers Luca and Fabiano.
Short description: Situated right in the middle of Entertainment district Fabiano's Finesse is a gym/fashion boutique for the bountifully equipped.
During the day, it is a very regular gym offering weight and strength training, boxing classes, running a bulletin board for finding your best sparring partner and similar services. There are also dancing classes for less violently inclined in ranging from ballroom to ballet. Next to the main training hall, where all the real action is going on, there is a small boutique section complete with four changing rooms and huge floor to ceiling mirrors.
Come nightfall, the whole place transforms into modern and experimental fashion temple hosting regular shows, photoshoots and discussions about what's hip and fresh in the industry. It's a good place to start your modelling career, especially if you're a plus-size person as the owner is known for his fondness of all things Larger Than Life. Traditionally, all his models are either beefed up mountains of muscle or just big boys, girls, and everything in between. True Art does not care for labels!
All the clothes presented during the shows can be purchased from the boutique section upon request. There are some prêt-à-porter items readily available for each season.
This establishment is run by its owner a goat faun going by the name Fabiano with the help of his brother Luca. Fabiano is a formal fashion designer, choreographer, boxing and dancing instructor. His real name is Frank but please, do not ever mention it in his presence as he has a mean right hook and really hates the name.
The owner is Iskandar's friend and King of Conquerors sometimes models for him.
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Business Name: Worse Dragon ( Name credit to![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
petcromancer! )
District: Entertainment District — specifically red-light district
Short description: Worse Dragon is an adult store run by a forward-thinking Witch, Shareen, and her Arachne Bondmate Mila. Sex toys, lingerie, accessories and lubricants are all available for purchase, with lines offering a strongly inclusive selection accommodating the needs of both humans and Monsters. Dildos and masturbators are equally inclusive — these come in varying sizes spanning all human and Monster types of genitalia.
The boutique recently underwent a makeover ( ♥ • ♥ • ♥ • ♥ ) spearheaded by employee Nicoletta Goldstein, and now offers twice-monthly sex-ed seminars aimed at providing helpful information for Monsters adjusting to transformed intimacy. Attendance is free but donations are very welcome! These two hour sessions are held on the evenings of the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, with the first Saturday focusing on Naga, Merrow, Harpy, Fae, and Arachnae type Monsters, and the second focusing on Dragon, Turnskin, Chimera, Vampire, Faun, and Puca type Monsters. Witches and partners welcome!
Bespoke magitech sex-toys are available on request, with one slot available per month. Please contact Nicoletta Goldstein here to discuss commissions.
OOCly, Worse Dragon has been taken over by me (Pearl!) following our Stiles player dropping, just in case anyone is confused about the double entry!