Nestled between the emerald slopes of the Jade Mountains and the sapphire waters of the Fenghuo River, the town of Yushan is a serene, bustling settlement inspired by various Asian cultures in a fantasy medieval setting. This humble town thrives on agriculture, craftsmanship, and trade, holding a reputation for its exquisite silk, rice wine, and rare medicinal herbs.
Yushan is visually striking with its tiered, wooden architecture adorned with intricate carvings and ornamentation. The town's buildings feature upturned eaves, a common trait in Oriental architecture, and are often painted in red and gold, colors symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.
The town is centered around a grand pagoda that serves as both a spiritual center and the residence of the local leader. Radiating from the pagoda are several well-worn stone paths leading to various districts: the marketplace, residential area, craftsmen's quarters, and agricultural lands.
As the morning mist lifts, the townspeople commence their daily routines. Fishermen cast their bamboo nets into the river, merchants open their shops, displaying exotic wares from distant lands, and children hurry to the town's modest school, clutching scrolls and inkstones. Street vendors peddle a variety of foods, from skewered meats to sweet rice cakes, filling the air with enticing aromas.
Rice paddies dominate the landscape, with terraced fields offering a picturesque panorama. Alongside rice, the fertile lands yield crops like millet, barley, and a variety of vegetables such as bok choy and radishes. Bamboo groves are cultivated for construction, utensils, and furniture.
The locals also engage in sericulture, the farming of silkworms, as Yushan's silk is highly valued. Ponds filled with koi and carp provide an additional source of food and aesthetic beauty.
For livestock, you'll commonly see goats and chickens—both serve multiple purposes, from milk and eggs to leather and feathers.
The town is governed by Lady Xue, a wise and benevolent Elf who is well-versed in both martial and mystical arts. She is aided by a council of respected elders and skilled individuals from various walks of life. The town also has a small but efficient guard force led by Captain Jiro, a stocky Dwarf with a no-nonsense attitude but a heart of gold.
Cultural practices often involve a blend of spiritualism and natural harmony. Many festivals are celebrated throughout the year, most notably the Spring Moon Festival where paper lanterns are released into the night sky, symbolizing the shedding of one's troubles.
Tea culture is significant in Yushan. From the youngest child to the eldest sage, all partake in the daily ritual of tea drinking, often accompanied by philosophical or casual conversation.
Yushan is a community deeply connected with nature and spirituality, one that cherishes the simple joys of life while offering a refuge to those who seek its wisdom or resources. With its tranquil beauty and rich cultural tapestry, the town stands as a harmonious sanctuary amid the ever-present chaos of the medieval world.