Elysium
Introduction
As the first rays of dawn pierce the towering skyline of Vita Nova, Cassian gingerly ascends the spiraled steps of his vertical abode nestled amidst the city’s heights. The echoes of morning bells reverberate, signaling the start of a fresh day. From his perch, he oversees the bustling market below, ensuring he captures the finest details for his panoramic sketches of the city’s ever-evolving streets.
Nestled within a cliffside village, Lyria commences her day, tending to the terraced gardens that cascade down the mountains. With practiced hands, she navigates the steep inclines, collecting herbs kissed by the morning dew. The vistas of Elysium stretch out before her—a land that has thrived through battles with gods and the whims of nature alike. In the evening, she descends to the village’s communal hot spring, letting the warmth of the waters soothe her wearied muscles.
Amidst the grand spires of Elysium’s renowned academy, Valerian, a young scholar, immerses himself in the intricate web of knowledge. The vast halls echo with wisdom from eons past, and under the watchful gaze of age-old statues, he meticulously transcribes runes that hold the power to bend reality. As evening descends, he joins his peers beneath the glimmering Omnіte lanterns in the courtyard, where debates over philosophy and arcane arts meld into a symphony of intellect and passion.
Perched amidst towering peaks and sweeping valleys, Elysium emerges as a testament to both nature’s majesty and human tenacity. Born from a tapestry of legends, where gods once roamed and heroes defied the divine, this nation has etched its legacy on the very mountains it calls home. From its towering cities to the tranquil villages ensconced within craggy alcoves, Elysium embodies a harmonious blend of past struggles and future aspirations. At its heart lies a people defined by their past triumphs over gods and elements alike, forever striving to sculpt a brighter tomorrow from the lessons of yesterday.
Description
Geography and Climate
Elysium’s landscape is dominated by vast mountain ranges, creating a rugged terrain that shapes its character. Much of Elysium’s climate is characterized by cold temperatures and consistent snowfall, both in the frigid northern reaches and the tall mountaintops. Despite the harshness, the region also has gentler areas. Evergreen trees dot the landscape, adapted to the persistent cold and contributing to the stark beauty of the terrain.
Culture
Elysian culture reflects the values of industriousness and personal agency, where one’s life is what one makes of it. Resilience is ingrained in their way of life, forged by the challenges of their harsh environment. The Elysian people exhibit a deep political engagement, most participating in the elections every five years. Notably, the majority of villages adhere to a single political belief, fostering a strong sense of unity and shared purpose within these close-knit communities.
Distrust of Gods
The inhabitants of Elysium possess a profound mistrust of gods, regarding them all as inherently evil entities. This suspicion arises from the belief that the pursuit of absolute power inevitably results in corruption, rendering even well-intentioned beings self-centered and detached from the welfare of the people. This conviction is reinforced by the belief that deities in other civilizations have tricked their adherents, paralleling the manipulative actions of Aeternus, the Elysian god. As a result, the Elysians approach outsiders with caution, particularly those who serve divine beings. While interactions are cordial, their underlying attitude is brisk and distrustful.
Dominari Novis Terris
The concept of “Domіnari Novis Terris,” which translates to “Lоrds of New Lands,” underwent a significant transformation in its meaning. Originally, it represented the mandate of Aeternus’s people to establish themselves on new territories. However, after their victory against their tyrannical god, the Elysian people reclaimed and reinterpreted this concept. Now, they themselves have become the “Lоrds of New Lands,” charged with the crucial task of nurturing and safeguarding both the territory and its inhabitants. The Elysians are acutely aware that neglecting their role as caretakers constitutes a serious transgression, underscoring the gravity of their commitment and responsibility for the land and its people.
The Festival of Spring
With the last tendrils of winter melting away, the Elysians gather for a grand celebration known as the Festival of Spring. Not only does it herald the end of icy blankets and frosty breaths, but it also commemorates the monumental day when their ancestors triumphed over Aeternus. Legends whisper that Aeternus’ fall froze the world in a seemingly endless winter, but the resilient spirit of the Elysians managed to bring forth the warmth of spring. As the festival reaches its crescendo, the final snowflakes drift down, heralding the promise that no flake will fall again until winter’s return. The festival serves as a vivid reminder of Elysium’s resilience and rebirth.
Artifice
Elysium stands as the pinnacle of scientific and magical advancement on Omniscia. Their unwavering pursuit of understanding creation itself was spawned by the capabilities of Aeternus; if their mortal god could harness these powers, they should be able to as well. Their extensive studies in this domain have borne fruit in the form of exceptional weaponry and magical artifacts, renowned for their potency. The tales of these weapons is further elevated by their reputation of having crafted the god-killing sword, Deicide. While other civilizations possess their own magical items, those originating from Elysium are widely regarded as superior, showcasing their meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled expertise. The Elysians’ magical mastery also extends beyond mere application, as they have dissected the intricate mechanics of magic, rendering it a teachable science that can be passed down through generations.
Omnies
A distinct marvel of Elysian craftsmanship, an Omnie is a small omnite crystal endowed with a unique form of sentience. These floating blue crystals bear a mesmerizing, pulsing blue glow. The Guild of Omniecrafters is responsible for their creation, involving the precise shaping of omnіte crystals and the carving of arcane sigils upon them. Notably, Elysian culture acknowledges the creation of new beings as acceptable, emphasizing that it is the treatment of these entities that holds ethical significance.
Omnies can be acquired through specialized shops, where potential owners undergo a unique selection process. A gathering of Omnies is released to interact with prospective buyers, forming telepathic bonds with those they choose. Once bonded, an Omnie becomes a constant companion, capable of telepathic communication with its owner and other Omnies. This communication occurs exclusively through images, creating a unique and profound form of connection. Omnies are also capable of making small, flute-like chirping noises that, while not able to directly convey meaning, allow them to add emotion or emphasis to their communications.
The presence of Omnies has cultivated a highly interconnected society. These crystals enable swift communication between villages, allowing messages to be conveyed with remarkable efficiency. Omnies can serve as messengers, facilitating the exchange of information across the land. Moreover, services have emerged to rent the capabilities of Omnies for broader communication purposes, enabling messages to be sent to distant cities and towns.
Cities and Villages
Cramped by limited horizontal expanses, buildings in Elysium’s cities shoot upwards, their slender profiles etching the skyline. Homes and shops jostle for space along precipitous mountain roads, while cities on broader terrains sprawl less but still stand proudly taller than those of neighboring nations. Omnіte lanterns punctuate major thoroughfares, glowing faintly in daylight and blazing brilliantly as night descends.
Rural settlements in Elysium mold themselves to the land’s whims. Farms, either cradled in valleys or sprawled across sparse plains, resort to mountain terraces when level ground is scarce. Villages hug cliffsides for shelter against the chilling gusts, while some perch atop crags, blending defense strategies with breathtaking vistas. Thermal springs become the heart of many hamlets, offering solace after laborious days. As winter blankets the terrain, these communities rely not just on their harvests but also on the bounty of the enveloping forests.
Architecture
Elysium’s architecture echoes Gothic artistry, merging elaborate craftsmanship with commanding heights. Stone dominates urban architecture, with timber often reserved for internal partitions. Cathedrals, once shrines to Aeternus, now stand repurposed — central government hubs in the capital and communal hubs elsewhere. Defense underpins Elysian construction. Formidable stone ramparts encase cities, marrying might with magnificence. In contrast, villages trust in robust wooden barriers and sentry towers, intertwining security with ceaseless watchfulness.
Government
Lords
In Elysium, leadership is vested in the hands of a Lord or Lady, chosen through a democratic electoral process. Their foremost duty upon ascension is to elevate the welfare of the citizenry. With expansive executive powers at their disposal, Lords can both establish and rescind laws, reflecting the evolving needs of the nation. Furthermore, they play a pivotal role in the realm of justice, adjudicating high-profile cases while delegating minor matters to the Council or lesser officials. The ceremonial Greatsword, named Deicide for ending their god’s reign, is bequeathed from one ruler to the next, serving as a tangible testament to Elysium’s rich lineage.
Elections
Every Elysian bears the right to vie for the coveted title of Lord, albeit with certain stipulations. Aspirants must relinquish connections to their former lives, ensuring impartiality in governance. This means forgoing familial ties like spouses or offspring. While instances of bias have sporadically surfaced, they seldom escalate to disruptive extents. While age isn’t a barrier, candidates on the extreme ends of the age spectrum rarely clinch victory. Campaign trails often meander through various cities, but a strategic focus remains on the capital, given its electoral heft.
Death Sentence
Upon completing a dedicated tenure of five years, Elysian Lords are subjected to an honorable execution. This definitive act serves a preventative purpose, discouraging potential Lords from pursuing the position for personal gain. Ensuring that Lords prioritize the welfare of the populace, the High General of the military assumes the duty of possibly terminating the Lord’s term early if their contributions cease to benefit the people. In circumstances of serious infractions, the High General can unilaterally proceed with execution. In cases of less grave transgressions or the accumulation of minor issues, approval from the Council is necessary to carry out the execution. This systematic approach underscores the significance of ensuring a Lord’s unwavering commitment to the people’s betterment throughout their service.
Lord Caelus Ventus, The Whispering Wind
Born from the humble outskirts of Vita Nova, the currently reigning Lord Caelus Ventus, often referred to as the “Whispering Wind,” is a figure shrouded in mystery and admiration. With a distinct ability to “listen” to the winds, he claims they whisper the secrets of Elysium to him, guiding his every decision. This uncanny communion with nature has led him to uncover hidden springs during droughts, predict storms, and even preemptively mitigate disasters.
Despite his almost supernatural connection with the elements, Caelus is profoundly human at his core. Before his ascent to leadership, he was a renowned storyteller, using the winds’ whispers to narrate tales that enthralled children and adults alike. As Lord, he has intertwined this passion for storytelling with governance, using allegories and parables to explain complex decisions, making them accessible to all.
However, whispers of a different kind permeate among the populace: murmurs suggesting that perhaps the voices he hears are the insidious callings of unknown evil gods or even Dicaxian spirits attempting to influence Elysium’s fate. In response to these suspicions, Caelus assures them that the “whispering” is merely a metaphor for his heightened attentiveness to the world’s rhythms and not the work of external entities.
Lord Caelus Ventus remains a beloved figure for his humility and his efforts to bridge the gap between nature’s unpredictable power and Elysium’s needs. He’s begun the “Aeolian Projects,” initiatives that harmonize Elysium’s architectural prowess with the world’s natural wonders, ensuring that as the nation advances, it does so hand-in-hand with the world it inhabits.
The Council
Elysium is steered by an influential body known as the Council, a cadre of appointed Councilors handpicked to advise the ruling Lord. Although these Councilors can be replaced at the Lord’s discretion, it’s a common practice for incoming Lords to retain the assembly chosen by their predecessors. This continuity, while ensuring stability, has also bred distrust among the populace, as the Council isn’t elected and often operates independently of the Lord’s reign. Each Councilor is tasked with managing a specific domain, providing a balanced distribution of responsibilities across the Council. Their principal duty revolves around gathering the sentiments of the Elysian people, distilling the gathered insights, and presenting a cohesive perspective to the Lord. While the Council aims to ensure the voice of the masses influences the decisions made at the highest echelons, their unelected status and enduring presence have cast a shadow of suspicion over their true intentions and influence.
Military
Elysium maintains a vigilant military presence as a safeguard against the accumulation of unchecked authority. Bolstered by a rich legacy of having vanquished a god, their military stands as a source of pride. Joining the ranks of the Elysian military is regarded as a pinnacle pursuit, resonating with the reverence for their god-killing feat. Entry into this esteemed force entails undergoing rigorous trials to ascertain the worthiness of candidates. Tasked with twin roles, the military both oversees internal security, vigilantly patrolling the land and fending off monstrous threats, and engages in the more solemn responsibility of waging wars against neighboring nations when deemed necessary. These conflicts are undertaken with the aim of killing the remaining gods, underscoring Elysium’s distrust of gods.
The High General
At the core of Elysium’s military stands the High General, a figure of utmost importance. Unlike other leaders, the High General’s selection is overseen by the military itself, operating independently of the Lord’s authority. This position isn’t solely about the military; the High General also ranks as the second-in-command to the Lord in certain respects. Although they are not involved in policy-making, they hold the final say in matters concerning wars. The High General shoulders a significant responsibility as well: overseeing the execution of the Lord at the end of their term or intervening if their power is misused. This duty underscores the High General’s pivotal role in both upholding the country’s security and preserving the equilibrium of authority.
High General Lucius Ferrum, The Iron Shield
Hailing from the shadows of Mount Victus Deus, High General Lucius Ferrum, commonly known as the “Iron Shield,” is an embodiment of Elysium’s unyielding spirit. His childhood, spent in the outskirts of the volcano’s reach, imbued him with a profound respect for nature’s formidable power and an understanding of its capriciousness. Known for his impenetrable strategies and defensive tactics, Lucius has safeguarded Elysium from countless threats, emphasizing preparation and foresight over outright aggression.
His rise through the military ranks was not without controversy. Lucius’ steadfast belief in minimizing collateral damage and protecting civilian lives sometimes came at the cost of strategic advantages, leading some to question his priorities. However, his unmatched record in protecting Elysium’s borders and his dedication to its people solidified his role as the nation’s leading military figure.
Lucius’ vision for Elysium’s military might is unique. He believes in the power of unity, drawing inspiration from Elysium’s history and the stories of Lord Caelus Ventus. Under his command, the army doesn’t just train for combat but also in disaster relief, community building, and peacemaking. To Lucius, every soldier is not just a warrior but a guardian of Elysium’s values. In the echoing halls of the military academy, a saying inspired by him prevails: “An Elysian shield guards not only its bearer but the very soul of the land.”
The Purists
On the fringes of society in Elysium, the Purists relentlessly pursue a single vision: a world unmarred by what they perceive as the malevolent influence of lesser gods birthed by Aeternus. These radicals, driven by a dream of an untainted paradise, deem the obliteration of these gods as the sole path to salvation. With cunning strategy, The Purists maneuver their chosen candidates into esteemed positions of Lords or High Generals, seeking dominion over Elysium’s fate. Under the command of influential leaders over many centuries, they’ve ignited many a crusade against the gods, perpetuating an endless dance of divine warfare. Beyond their own borders, Purist spies weave webs of dissent, fanning the flames of resentment towards these celestial entities, and, at times, plotting their very downfall.
Trade
Trade forms a crucial link for Elysium with other nations, predominantly involving the export of magic items and the import of essential resources like food and cloth. This commerce is facilitated by merchants who purchase local products and transport them to different locations for sale. Many of these traders journey to the markets in the Alkuli Empire or traverse the clans of Dicaxia, while some opt for traveling within Elysium itself. In cities, trade transactions take place within individual shops, fostering a bustling atmosphere. In villages, specialized goods are available in select shops, while most trading activity takes place within small market spaces. This network of exchange serves to connect the diverse elements of commerce across Elysium and beyond its borders.
History
Early History
The Creation of Omniscia [1558-1 P.S. (Pre-Salvation)]
In the beginning, the world was a vast expanse surrounded by the Omnіte sea, a realm filled with potential. It awaited the touch of a creator. Aeternus, a travelling god from a distant land and guided by his people’s ultimate creed of “Domіnari Novis Terris,” took on the monumental task of sculpting this untouched world.
As Aeternus set to work, water coursed through the land, and lush landscapes sprouted, teeming with plants and wildlife. Soon after, humanity carved out its place on this newly formed planet. As a master of creation, the traveler also brought forth other gods, shaping both the Dicaxian and Alkuli pantheons. Once his creation was complete, the traveler stepped back, becoming a silent observer, witnessing the dance of life and the civilizations that rose from his work.
The Apocalypse [0 A.D. (Aeternus’s Death)]
Over the ages, peace and harmony began to fracture in Elysium. The land was rife with wars, conflicts, and scarcity. Disturbed by the chaos that had taken root, the traveler faced a dilemma: dedicate eons to healing the world or start anew with a clean slate. This moment of indecision led to a fateful decision — to unleash an apocalypse upon Elysium.
However, the threat of destruction united the Elysians like never before. A fierce battle waged for over a year, eventually carving the Maw deep into the earth. Leading the charge was Sir Darian Valeo, a brave knight who rallied the masses against the divine threat. Against all odds, they triumphed. Darian’s final blow defeated Aeternus, proving that even gods could fall.
This monumental victory empowered the Elysians. Bolstered by their achievement, they vowed to fix the very issues that had driven their creator to the brink of destruction. A renewed spirit surged through the land, and a single goal took root: to create the paradise that Aeternus thought impossible.
Modern History
War with Dicaxia [198 A.D.]
Driven by a fervent belief stemming from a Purist who ascended to the rank of Lord, Tiberius Drusus’s decision to invade was shaped by an ardent determination to free the Dicaxian lands from the influence of their gods. This undertaking marked a rare occasion when the typically formless Dicaxian deities manifested in tangible form to shield their domain. With the Dicaxian’s Ancestral War barely behind them, Elysium saw this as an opportune moment to spread their vision of a world unbound by divine entities. However, the confrontation with Dicaxia unexpectedly unified its people and spirits, presenting a formidable combined resistance. Though Elysium entered the fray with righteous zeal, the campaign illuminated the the profound implications of challenging deeply-entrenched beliefs. The failed venture, while aggressive in intent, inadvertently fostered stronger ties within Dicaxia, revealing the multifaceted consequences of ambition colliding with tradition.
Invention of the Omnie [539 A.D.]
In a defining moment of Elysian magic, a prodigious wizard named Zephyrus Aetherium chanced upon a groundbreaking discovery: the creation of the Omnie. These intricate artifacts, with their potent enchantments and diverse applications, promised to revolutionize arcane practices. Yet, Zephyrus, keenly aware of the value and potential risks of his discovery, closely guarded the secret method of their creation. Instead of widespread dissemination, he meticulously produced and sold Omnies, amassing substantial wealth from their unparalleled demand. With time, Zephyrus’ ambition transcended mere riches; he sought to establish a sanctuary for magical learning and innovation. Using his accrued fortune, he laid the foundation for what would become the revered Borealis Academy. Ensconced within its hallowed halls, the secret of the Omnie was shared only with a select cadre of trusted scholars. The arcane technique remains one of the academy’s most closely guarded secrets, known only to a chosen few, even to this day.
The Betrayal of Cassianus [637 A.D.]
The vehement Purist Cassianus, having ascended to the pivotal role of High General, passionately advocated for an aggressive campaign against Alkuli, convinced it was the next step in their holy purge. Lord Valerius, the presiding Lord, firmly opposed the move, seeing it as a dangerous and unnecessary provocation. Unyielding in his conviction, Cassianus defiantly marshaled his forces, leading them toward Alkuli’s borders in open defiance of the Lord’s decree. However, the Elysian populace, deeply loyal to Lord Valerius and wary of the Purists’ radical agenda, rallied en masse. A civilian-led uprising surged forth, intercepting Cassianus’ advancing army from the rear. In a dramatic confrontation that underscored the democratic spirit of Elysium, the High General’s forces were overwhelmed, and his treacherous gambit was quashed.
The Eruption of Mount Victus Deus [850 A.D.]
The cataclysmic eruption of Mount Victus Deus stands as one of the darkest chapters in Elysium’s history. With little warning, the dormant giant awoke with a fury, spewing molten lava that cascaded toward Vita Nova, consuming vast districts and claiming thousands of lives. The city’s landscape was forever altered, with much of the old city buried beneath the scorching flows. As Elysians began the arduous process of rebuilding, lessons from the past were deeply ingrained in the reconstruction. Newer parts of the city were erected upon elevated terrains, ensuring they stood high above any potential future lava paths. Around the mountain’s base, a series of research outposts sprang up, dedicated to early eruption detection, ensuring that the horrors of the past would never catch them unprepared again. Additionally, an expansive, empty moat now encircles the city, a silent guardian awaiting the day it may need to divert a deadly flow and protect the heart of Elysium.
Places and People
Notable Locations
Borealis Academy
The Borealis Academy, standing at the northern edge of the Frigus Barrens, is a beacon of enlightenment in the cold expanse. As Elysium’s premier institution for magic and artifice, its towering spires shimmer with an ethereal light, mirroring the celestial displays of the northern skies. Here, scholars and mages from all over Omniscia converge, seeking to harness the intricacies of arcane knowledge. Surrounded by the desolate beauty of the Barrens, the academy’s isolation only serves to amplify its reputation as a sanctuary of study, away from the clamor of the world, where the mysteries of the universe are unfurled and understood. Within its hallowed halls, the renowned Omniecrafters assemble the sentient Omnies, merging artifice and magic to breathe life into the luminous crystals.
Vita Nova and Mount Victus Deus
Vita Nova, the capital of Elysium, is a majestic city that embodies resilience and innovation. Nestled amidst the calm Salvus Valley, its vertical architecture rises skyward, juxtaposed against the backdrop of Mount Victus Deus. The streets are flanked by a blend of Gothic-inspired edifices and serene ornate fountains that, come winter, are delicately transformed into luminescent ice sculptures. Beyond its beauty, Vita Nova’s spirit is palpable in the bustling marketplaces and city streets making it a living testament to Elysium’s indomitable spirit and dedication to progress.
Towering above Vita Nova is Mount Victus Deus, a volcano standing as a formidable testament to the authority of a god long passed. Its once-fiery wrath, now dormant, is evident in the charred remnants near its peak, where the ruins of Aeternus’ throne eerily whisper tales from a bygone era. The mountain’s slopes, though lush with regrowth, bear scars of its turbulent past, while the research outposts dotting its base serve as vigilant watchtowers, ensuring that its history remains a lesson rather than a recurring nightmare.
Abyss
Somewhere in the open waters of the Royal Gulf lies Abyss, an enigmatic city occupied by the Remnant—a cult devoted to the belief that Aeternus will one day rise again. The Remnant’s ships are marvels of magic; they can submerge beneath the waves, scouring the gulf’s bottom in a ceaseless quest to find Aeternus’s lost body. These magical vessels also surface to intercept passing ships, demanding tithes to fuel their zealous mission and sustain their secretive community. The tithes not only fund their endeavors but also serve as the city’s lifeblood. The Remnant shuns the mainland, believing Aeternus’s protection is strongest over the open sea. No outsider has ever glimpsed Abyss and lived to recount the tale, perpetuating its status as a mysterious maritime legend.
Notable Individuals
Elowen, Leader of The Remnant
Elf, Woman, 52 years old
In the heart of Elysium, a cult known as The Remnant fervently believes in the prophecy of Aeternus’s return, a deity they are convinced will exact retribution on those who defeated him, while offering salvation to the faithful. At the helm of this group is a charismatic woman named Elowen, whose zeal began when she unearthed ancient holy texts predating the war. Delving deeply into these writings, she became an ardent devotee, fervently believing in the teachings and doctrines. Elowen strongly feels that the sacred places of worship, now desecrated by being transformed into government buildings, must be restored to their original sanctity. Her covert studies were brought to light when she was apprehended sneaking into one such repurposed church to pore over the scriptures. In response, Elysium’s authorities banished her and eradicated the discovered texts. Undeterred, Elowen’s mission has only intensified: she now seeks to not only reclaim the temples but also to recover any religious relics concealed within these establishments, believing them to be of profound significance to her cause.
Darian Althor
Bugbear, Man, 42 years old
Darian Althor has emerged as a prominent voice of dissent against the reigning Lord Caelus Ventus. While Caelus speaks of the “whispers” guiding his judgments, Darian staunchly believes these voices are sinister entities aiming to corrupt the very foundation of Elysium. As an ardent advocate for a leadership free from divine interference, Darian’s convictions border on the religious in their intensity, even though he champions antitheism. He sees it as his duty to depose Caelus and assume the mantle of leadership himself, safeguarding Elysium from what he perceives as imminent peril.
Professor Elwin Thorne
Human, Man, 83 years old
Professor Elwin Thorne heads the academy with a unique blend of genius and whimsy. Brilliant to a fault, he often plunges headlong into his experiments with unparalleled enthusiasm. However, his scatterbrained nature often leads him to alter too many variables at once, resulting in unpredictable, and at times wild, outcomes. This slight touch of madness has endeared him to his students, who find themselves both exasperated and enamored by his unconventional methods. While they may grumble about the chaos of his lectures, there’s no denying the deep affection they hold for their eccentric headmaster.
The Silent Knight
Unknown Species, Man, Unknown Age
Known only as the “Silent Knight,” this enigmatic vigilante has carved a legendary reputation throughout Elysium. Cloaked in mystery, no one truly knows his identity. Armed with an arsenal of ingenious tools and inventions, the Silent Knight is sought after by the desperate and downtrodden, becoming a beacon of hope in their darkest hours. From hunting dangerous monsters to tracking down elusive criminals, his prowess is unmatched. Many whisper that he was once a knight who found the constraints of the military stifling, leading him to take justice into his own capable hands. While rumors persist that he calls the shadowed depths of the Perditus Pines home, he’s most often sighted meting out justice in the bustling streets of Vita Nova.