POWER ON, WE'RE DOING A RESTART!

graphics by dubird
Final Fantasy (c) Square-Enix
Bel'serea and all else (c) Lorelei

world of bel'serea


Click above for larger version.
Click here for the floating islands.

Note: There are lots of small villages and outposts scattered all over the world. Listed here are the major city centers and important locations.

central continent

Nyalsha
Once a city buried underwater, Nyalsha's ruins are a source of mystery and excitement. The source of discoveries such as airships, automatons, guns and teleporters, not much else is known about this ancient city. Blending old, stone-crafted architecture with technology, Engineers have been exploring this location for nearly 15 years, and are no closer to finding who built it, and why it had resurfaced. They have, however, repaired and duplicated the technology they've found there, and has put them to use in the larger cities.
What is most curious about this place is that there is no central spire, and no monster sightings at all. This might have to do with the fact that the mist levels here are highest on the continent, and on some nights, the mist is so concentrated that you could see it with the naked eye, without a mage around to wield it.

Nylune
Situated in the desert, Nylune is the centre of all activity for not only Red mages, but Blue mages as well. Even though mist levels are lower (even dead) in the desert, it's very popular with those who have been cast out from normal society of mist-casters. Nylune is safer than other cities, because there are very little monsters seen around the area, as compared to others. This could have something to do with the mist in the vicinity, or the fact that the city has a lower population.

Risirra
Located between the Anthien and Karan forests, Risirra is a village dedicated to science, philosophy and any other kind of scholarly pursuit. The center of all Alchemist activity, it was founded - fittingly - by the first Alchemist ever on record: Tagahn Cynaka. Besides the engineers in Nyalsha, the engineers usually reside here near their own kin - if it's anywhere in the world to get something mechanical repaired, it's here in Risirra.

Tontora
Second largest city in the world; second only to Rorik to the east, it is comprised mainly of Hume. Tontora borrowed its name from a mythological city which roots trace back to the days before the Common Era. This city, once a fledgling little village near lake Ogahn and Mt.Beyn, its population has exploded over the last few hundred years which has lead it to become the power center that it is today.
If there's anything to be found in the world, it can be found in Tontora. The first recorded use of the airships began here, and it's the central marketplace of all Bel'serea.
The most to note about this city, is that it's where the Caltoh Central Government was founded and is run to this day.
Tontora was the birthplace of nearly all the Venia (six Sages of the recent era), is a source of pride for the citizens, and don't think for a second that they wouldn't bring it up to those visiting or new to the city.

Remm-ifa
The central city for the Bard and Dancer classes, Remm-ifa is a hub not of technology, but of culture, performing arts and music. It's a newer city, founded in the last 100 years or so, however their population has skyrocketed lately.

Finalon
More a training settlement than a city, Finalon and the surrounding area serves as a training ground for Soldiers. Over time, the grasslands around the city have turned into deserts from overuse, and it needs to import a lot of non-battle-related supplies and food in from Nylune or Tontora. Finalon was first used as a war encampment, however since the end of the Ascension wars, the warriors decided to make it into a full settlement to hone their skills.

Uelma Plateaux
This area isn't so much of a city but a landmark. Uelma is known for quite a large concentration of mesa and in a wide variety - tall, short, wide, thin - it's quite remarkable. There have been whispers about establishing some sort of town here.

southern continent

Palma
A small arctic village like the four others, all of their civilians are in some way, working in Suzaku's Shrine. A small village with less than 1000 inhabitants, their houses are made from the snow of the tundra, and wear furs from the animals of the area. Palma has a separate, yet unique culture based on the spirits of the animals - and most importantly the very spirit of Suzaku - and their art reflects this. The Preists and Preistesses of the Suzaku Shrine speak their own unique dialect, including the common language of the world. Some say this is the tongue in which the Suzaku speaks, but this hasn't been verified.

Suzaku Shrine
Built around the Ben-Navi crystal of fire, this ice structure stands within a barren tundra of snow and ice. Adorned with jewels from the area, the interior and exterior is engraved with legends in regards to the great bird. The energy around the temple is enough to power an entire village, and it is Suzaku's fire which is ever burning, providing light even on the darkest nights.

greater continent

Djannos
Once two villages, united under the guide of Djan, the Great Warrior Venia, now one village. They say you can't find a better ale than that from Djannos.

Eltier
Known throughout the world as the forest which guards the Seiryuu shrine. Mist levels are so high here, all the trees and plants are covered in varying thickness of crystal. It isn't known how they survive without the wind, however some suspect that Seiryuu has something to do with it. No animals live here, however it's a breeding ground for monsters and demons, and it isn't known if any villages are here.

Genbu Shrine
The Shrine was built around the orb of water, yet at the same time, waterfalls can be seen in canals and spouts in well planned out paths around both the shrine and the city. This examples the power and influence one Ben-Navi can have for an entire area.

Glatera
Home to the Rangers of the world, Glatera is a far-expanding and ancient forest, filled with nearly every kind of animal species in the world - and also monster species. This is why Archers and Snipers of the world (commonly given the name Ranger here) escort parties safely through the woods (for a modest fee of course). A large area of Glatera is unmapped, which is why the employ of a Ranger is so vital to survival in Glatera. Some say that there is a central village there similar to what the Viera have, yet at the treetops, but only the Rangers here know for sure.

Ianua'lys
The home of the Summoners is fittingly, between Sana'lan and Ze'isa - the homes of the White and Black Mages. Rumoured to have been built by the very Scielans they summon, Ianua'lys rivals Sana'lan in regards to its beauty. The city's culture is wholly based upon their summoned creatures, and not one piece of art or music is without reference to the legendary creatures. What is most present in their architecture and culture is symbolism of the Moons - one of which, where the Scielans are from.
At the centre of the town is the Scielan Temple - this is where blood pacts are made with the great creatures, and where Conjurers advance to Summoner status. Within the great structure, there is a statue carved with the likeness of each Scielan, with extra room for more. In the middle of this structure is a scale model of all three moons carved from crystals by the great Ice Goddess Shiva - still cold to the touch after hundreds of years.

Iaris
Like it's counterpart far south, Iaris' populace is dedicated to the running and sustaining of the Genbu Shrine to the north. Nearly thrice the population of Picea to the east, many stay here for it's calm weather and proximity to the Black mage village. The turtle and snake are sacred animals here, and not one animal skin can be found of a snake - in fact, all reptilian shells and skins are outlawed here, and is punishable by their laws.

Indra's Corridor
A forbidden zone of both mist and weather, many avoid this area entirely and travel by boat, going in between the islands west of it instead of straight through the area. With mountain ranges framing a dry and lifeless desert, this area was dubbed by the White Mages as Indra's Corridor for the old legend because of it's constant violent thunderstorms and winds. Those who are not killed by the harsh environment are most likely killed from the random lightning bolts which hit the ground. Those who roam close to this area and have survived tell of a massive hume-shaped shadow roaming - even crawling on his hands and knees - across the vast sand dunes.

Njmira
In the Woods' northern quarter rests Njmira - its inhabitants high above the mists below, with structures winding around the very trees itself, it's no wonder such a race would make a village so beautiful. This village has only been seen by few, with paintings and other such artistic portrayals depict it as such.

Picea
The most easterly village, also with the least inhabitants, Picea's weather is unpredictable and sometimes disastrous. With domed buildings made to withstand such extremes, Picea's civilians are also the most resilient and very strong. The most strong of villagers are put to work as Preists and Priestesses in Seiryuu's Shrine. Many find that being in between the Frozen continent, Eltier and the Vieran woods seclude this shrine, however the happiness of being near the Ben-Navi is good enough for them.

Rorik
Easily the largest city in all Bel'serea, Rorik has everything Tontora has and a lot more, as it dwarfs Tontora by at least one and a half times. Nearly a civilization into itself, it has merchants from all over the world; some shops even sell lost treasures of the Ancients (or so they say - don't believe them though). A branch of the Caltoh Central Government is here to enforce law where needed, and representatives from nearly every job class can be found somewhere within the perimeter of the city (although some don't make their presence as known as others).
Remnants of old technology can be found here, such as transporters, automated gates, and within the old, inner city, self-renewing energy sources for lights. That is something that Tontora doesn't have - and they remind them of it.

Sana'lan
Founded by Hirena, the Holy Mist Venia, Sana'lan is where White Mages are created. To this day, the cave in which Hirena hid from the monsters ( and rediscovered White Magic to heal Finna, her only daughter) exists to this day. The crystal pond is still used to inaugurate new mages, and to start them on their journey to discover the many intricacies in wielding mist.
A beautiful village filled with unknown number of flower species and plant life, Sana'lan is a great place to raise any child, considering where it's located north of. Conjurers also inhabit this village, until they're ready to go northwest, to Ianua'lys. Conjurers are still approached with caution, as the majority of the population are White Mages - Conjurers might feel a little outcasted by this fact, which is extra incentive for them to study and grow.

Sasian
Almost closed off to the world, Sasian rests on a completely forested island between the Vieran Wood and the Glateran Forest. This island, surrounded by cliffs, was the place were Cerec, the Great Teacher Venia, took the children he saved from an enemy encampment, and founded the village. The family tree which started with Cerec and his wife Sera can be traced clearly to this day, of which the core family still resides in the main house, built by Cerec's own two hands.

Seiryuu Shrine
With even stronger stone built around the orb of wind high on a hill, engraved by the most expert of hands is the story of Seiryuu and rumoured children. Prayers are offered to Seiryuu for stable weather elsewhere - some believe that Seiryuu draws the winds to the island to compensate.

The Wood
Swimming with Mist, the Wood is a mysterious place for all except the Viera. It doesn't accept many within its grounds, and if so, they are heavily guarded by the Viera. With trees older than history itself, it holds many mysteries, with mist levels around them toxic to those of non-mist classes. Some believe that the mists are so concentrated here, that The Wood is nearly an organism onto itself.

Trasall'min
Not much is known about this religious sect, other that they too, worship the three moons which orbit the planet. Home to the reclusive and xenophobic tribe of religious zealots, the Trasall'min order was home to R'ddyn, the Heretic Venia. Free from the Caltoh Government's influence, they value their privacy, and whatever is known about them was known through R'ddyn. What is known for certain however, is that this order is dying out, and it has been predicted that it will be dead within a few centuries.

Viridis
Home to the geomancers, it is fitting that they live on an island surrounded by nearly all of the elements in which they can control. This is reflected in their architecture, as they can build their structures with these materials as well, and make them strong enough to stand for long periods of time. Considering how little Geomancers are around, this area is very populated, especially where the terrains meet, there are small outposts where the Geomancers-In-Training are introduced to it.

Viysa
These Viysa plains is the home to the nomadic Palea Tribe, as they have found ancient ruins worth salvaging. Incorporating the shells of ancient buildings, the Palea tribe have built upon them, and have made it their home. Moving their home every ten years or so to other areas of the plains, it should be another five years until they move again.

Ze'isa
Home to the Black Mages, and yet it was not founded by Sonoah, the Black Mist Venia. True, he did revive the art, however it was his descendants who decided to stay in a particular location. Very discipline-oriented, not much attention is put towards beauty of the village - it's more directed for function and not style. This is why many Black Mages travel, so they can see the beauty of the world, as they continue their studies

Layal'i
Situated in the middle of vast flower fields and fruit orchards, Layal'i specializes in perfumes and incense, and produces it nearly world-wide. Perfumes are so imbedded into their culture and daily lives, there is a perpetual sweet fragrance to the air.

Ale'risi
A small town near the coast, Ale'risi is dedicated to various crafts, mainly pottery, textiles, and fabrics.

Loroldem
A city completely submerged at the bottom of a shallow part of this particular bay, Loroldem harnesses the power of an air elemental to support life, and numerous plant life all throughout the city beautifies as well as filters the air. It has been a myth for many years that the people of the city were able to shapeshift into mer-people, which is how they would get through the water, but many in the area say that there are underground tunnels with lifts and pulleys to get up and down.

Avucello
A moderately sized, unremarkable city in the grasslands.

Elm'oa
A small village in the mountains with close ties to the Gria, Elm'oa is very quaint and very quiet kind of place.

frozen continent

The only uninhabited continent in the world, believed once to be called Tempyr, is now a barren, frozen wasteland. There are no inhabitants; no animals, no monsters, no demons. Only mountains, dangerous terrain, and there seems to be a constant snow-like mist thousands of meters high.

northern continent

Alteyr
High atop the peaks of the mountain lies the home of the Wind Drakes, fittingly near Lacialis, home to the Dragoons. Miles of caverns were created by their ancestors, with springs and waterfalls carefully placed throughout. Only a fully trained Dragoon would know the intricacies of exactly what lies there.
A little further south of Alteyr is a smaller, however still identical, cave which houses the Wyverns. To create a bond with a Wyvern to a Dragoon, is something sacred to them.

Byakko Shrine
Attracting animals from all over the world, they all share the space peacefully in the presence of Byakko's Shrine. Built around the orb of earth, meter thick stones surround the great crystal. Mythology of all kinds of animal species are carved into the great rock, including gemstones from all over the world. A separate shrine on the outside accepts offers for those who are repentant for mistreating animals or other lifeforms on the earth.

Diraen
On the border of the Niwyr forest, Diraen's citizens, like the other cities of the shrines, are priests and priestesses of the Byakko Shrine. It's not uncommon for Trainers to find their companion animal here, and it is the best place to learn how to respect and train one as well. To become a full Trainer here is to feel that you have the blessing of Byakko himself - something which is incredibly important to the citizens here, and to the Trainers. Even if a person is not a Trainer, it's very common for households to domesticate animals as part of daily life - moreso here than in any other city.

Ereny
More of a resort town than anything, Ereny is known for it's beauty and recreational activities. Ereny has the clearest waters of the world, constant moderate to high winds, unusually high number of tropical plants and animals, it seems very out of place for a more northern town. People from all over however, come for something much more exciting - wind surfing. The climate is perfect for it, it's easy to learn, and provides hours of leisure on the high winds. Ereny has chefs and foods here from all over, which makes it such an attractive vacation spot.

Gaddevan
On the vast Kani-Teon plains, rests the Gaddevan Empire. Home to the Elvaan and centre of all sport competitions of the world. Buildings several stories tall, vast rock gardens, and agriculture, many of its inhabitants are employed elsewhere for carpentry work (when not hired for bodyguard duties).

Ken'en
This tiny village on the northern side of the mountain is a quiet little town, where it is constantly snowing. The most famous of citizens of this town is the man named Tobul, who is said to be able to mould Adamant. Finally, Ken'en seems to be in high demand these days for their tree-syrup-based candies and sweets.

Kia Ten
Home of the Monks and Masters, Kia Ten has been rarely visited by those not of their class. Very secretive about their home, it'd also be easy to spot those not originally from their village. Named after the numerous heavens rumored to exist, Kia Ten is a haven - expertly crafted buildings, fountains of various sizes all across the city, and even their central spire was altered to fit the city.

Kitora
On the forest-covered hills rest Kitora, the home of the Samurai. At the base of the mountains to the north, this city was named after the famous tomb in a cave not too far away, where the first Samurai lived, and began the class and honour system they live by even today. As a matter of fact, it's name was originally 'Kitora-ji', however the use of that name is uncommon. Flourishing with Cherry Blossom trees, rounded bridges and pagoda, it's like stepping into another world when one enters Kitora.

Kontei
Named after a base or root, Kontei is exactly that; where Ninja begin and continue their training, especially when one has no previous battle experience. Between the Milon and Ralas forests, where they do all of their training. With meagre encampments, Kontei moves on a constant basis along the Aric river to the west. Expert blacksmiths from Kitora help with making their weapons whenever possible.

Kyza
Making their home on the tunrda, on one of the Garena islands, the citizens settled here when a frozen Wind Drake was found on the ice. A great percentage of Warriors travel from this city to Lacialis to become Dragoons, to fully appreciate the majesty that are Wind Drakes.

Lacialis
At the very foot of the mountains, Lacialis is a training ground for Warriors all over the world to become a Dragoon. To look around this place is to be immersed in a culture wholly devoted to the noble flying creatures. Since this outpost seems to be more training grounds than a town, many of their supplies need to be brought in from Ereny and other places. Many people in fact, move to Lacialis to make a home for themselves and to take care of the Dragoons, since all they do is concentrate on their training.

Tearen
On the northern end of Pilyn island, rests the town which was made noteworthy by Ajnnera - the Vieran White Mage: this is the village where she sacrificed herself and became legendary. In the central ruins of the city, her body can still be seen high on a central column, her body moulded into the stone. She is honoured every year at the beginning of spring, on the anniversary of her death, by all White Mages of the area.

Alizu
A small Elvaan village south of Lacialis.

Nalick
A small town near Ereny (almost too small to be counted on the map), which is dependent on its close neighbor for a lot of its supplies and food.

En-rana
A snowy northern village, which seems to be separated from the rest of the world. The most remarkable part of this village, for those who are fortunate to live or visit there, is not just a collection of domed ice houses. Its grand jewel is the giant dome of snow and ice which covers the entire living area, with several tunnels leading out to the main world. This was achieved and is maintained by a good population of Black Mages and Magi who all have an elemental affinity with ice, water and snow.

Mezera-ynss
This city is actually situated on two sides of a very narrow gorge, with both sides equally distributed to each. The two sides are connected by bridges which are checked for security every year. This city is also an airship hub, and has a very busy marketplace - on both sides!

Suen Dhara
Several hundred years ago, Suen Dhara was originally an outpost and lighthouse for the shallow waters around it. When a small town was established, it kept growing, so the newer stone houses were elevated from the water, and their posts were embedded and anchored into the bedrock underneath. So, this city has the illusion of being completely above the water, and serves as a busy seaport for most of the world.

floating continent

One of the greatest mysteries of the Common Era is the largest of all floating land masses - the floating continent. Not one person has been able to reach it in known history, and no airship ever built or discovered has been able to reach it. It passes over Viridis every two years, and whenever it does, a celebration takes place.

floating islands

Jaera-nis
The hub of all aircraft travel, Jaera-nis' citizens are expanding the town to the whole island, eventually. Consisting mainly of Engineers and travellers, they all work in some way, in the airship yards on the northern tip of the island. Many Humes and Elvaan live here for most of the year, on commission by the local mayor.

Nenira
Since this is an early settlement, only a few buildings have been constructed. A very quiet place of course, it has less than 100 people living there, including many Elvaan.

the moons

First Moon - Mir-ja
The largest of the three moons, it is here where the Scielans of the Conjurers and Summoners reside. Tinged gold, this moon is closest to the planet, and has the most influence over tides and reflective light.

Second Moon - Ashtana
Half the size of Mir-ja, Ashtana was named after the first Queen of a very old, now fallen, kingdom. A pure white, Ashtana is farther away from the planet, and rotates around Bel'serea faster than Mir-ja.

Third Moon - Eomy
Too small to even be considered a moon, Eomy first appeared around the coming of the Common Era, now it's common belief that it's a rather large comet, drawn in by the planetary gravity pull. Tinged a light blue and slightly oblong in shape, it's irregularity which makes it a sight to be seen when all three moons are in the sky in one given night.