# Durdany > [!info] Quick Facts > | | | > |---|---| > | **Type** | Nation | > | **Continent** | [[Continent - Auken\|Auken]] | > | **Location** | Southernmost nation of Auken | > | **Capital** | North Wessing (fortress-palace) | > | **Largest City** | South Wessing | > | **Climate** | Perpetual spring, mild winters | > | **Government** | Aristocratic oligarchy (Southern Courts) | > | **Known For** | Arts, bardic tradition, outdoor concerts | > [!map] View on Map > [Open Interactive Map →](https://hawksrepos.github.io/elvensong-map/?location=Durdany) ## Overview Durdany is the southernmost nation of Auken, a realm of perpetual spring and radiant summers defined by its picturesque aesthetic. Green rolling fields are punctuated by vibrant blankets of flowers and quaint, idyllic villages. Unlike the harsh territories to the north, Durdany enjoys a remarkably mild climate—even in the depths of winter, snow is a rare phenomenon, seen only within the high reaches of the northern forests. The country tapers southward for hundreds of kilometres toward [[Continent - Iros|Iros]], ending in sun-drenched beaches and the peaceful town of **Carnthorpe**, the most southern permanent settlement in Auken. ## Major Settlements ### South Wessing The largest city in Auken and the undisputed trade capital of the west. With a population numbering in the tens of thousands, its streets are a vibrant melting pot where travellers from every corner of Gryth converge. ### North Wessing The true seat of power, roughly 200 kilometres up the coast from South Wessing. This city functions primarily as a colossal fortress-palace, a secluded enclave where the nobility reside in opulent isolation. ### Rosewind A town on the shores of Cliffwater Lake, home to **Rosewind College**, a premier bardic school. ### Carnthorpe The most southern permanent settlement in Auken, basking in bright sun and gentle coastal winds. ## Government & Society Durdany is controlled by an elite ruling class of interconnected families who have interbred for generations to consolidate their power. These dukes and duchesses of the **Southern Courts** are notoriously unpopular with the commoners, frequently serving as the targets of biting satirical plays and local poetry. ## Culture Despite the friction between the classes, Durdany is world-renowned as a sanctuary for the arts. The country is famous for: - Grand outdoor concerts and theatrical performances - Verdant amphitheatres that draw spectators from across the globe - **Rosewind College** - a premier bardic school The nation's interior is equally lush, with high and low forests providing sanctuary for various ranger and druid clans who live in harmony with the temperate wilderness. ## Conflicts & Relations > [!warning] Ongoing Tensions > Durdany frequently comes into conflict with its neighbours through its pursuit of beauty and expansion. ### Conflict with True Sylvaria To the east, beyond the mountain range that guards its border, the nation frequently encroaches upon the ancient woods of [[Region - Silvaria|True Sylvaria]]. The ruling elite's desire for resources has led to numerous logging and mining expeditions into the Syndani Forest, all of which are fiercely repelled by the wood elves of [[Faction - House Greenroot|House Greenroot]]. ### Rivalry with Frassand A centuries-old rivalry with [[Region - Frassand|Frassand]] to the north keeps Durdany in a state of constant political and military posturing, as the two powers vie for dominance over the lucrative trade routes of southern Auken. ## Connections - [[Continent - Auken]] - Parent continent - [[Region - True Sylvaria]] - Eastern neighbour (frequent conflict) - [[Faction - House Greenroot]] - Wood elf faction opposing Durdany's expansion - [[Region - Frassand]] - Northern rival --- ## Gallery ![[Pasted image 20260201090449.png]] ![[Pasted image 20260201090455.png]] ![[Pasted image 20260201090501.png]] ![[Pasted image 20260201090508.png]] ![[Pasted image 20260201090514.png]] --- *See also: [[Regions]]*