The History~
L
ike most of the cities in the Chronicles of Norman, the City of Woodhaven is not specifically named in the books, though it was alluded to. Research has determined that Woodhaven and Forest Port are actually one and the same City, a confusion of inter-language translations. On the day, 2nd day of Fourth Hand of the Month of Rastar (9) in the year 10,153 CA the City of Woodhaven annexed the City of Forest Port to be as one, adjacent sister cities united. City walls were erected and demolished to reflect the unification.Woodhaven is located on the northern bank of the Vosk River, west of Iskandar and east of Jorts Ferry, and is the 4th city along the Vosk, moving west from the Thentian Mountains. Woodhaven takes pride in remaining fiercely Gorean and true to the unwavering standards and archetypal theories expressed within the novels. The present City has been rebuilt from the abandoned ruins of a once great civilization, and is now spirited, prospering and viable, rising from an expressive and meaningful past. Close bonds and a true sense of Home Stone are marked characteristics of those who make Woodhaven their home.
The founding populace of Woodhaven moved from Ar Station to a City unnamed in the Chronicles of Norman, located within the Thentian Mountains and named Timecula Keep. Seeking a place to plant the Home Stone deeply, that was true to their heritage as strong Goreans, based on the traditions and beliefs of Honor and Pride, they emigrated to Woodhaven under the leadership of Cleanth Uriel. Upon his retirement a generation later, Drago Mas assumed the mantel of Administrator, years later to be followed by Chase Steel. Upon hearing of the Administrator's abdication and foiled attempt to destroy the City by fire in 10,156 CA, Cleanth Uriel returned as Ubar, to rebuild the City to its once renowned status with Goreans world-wide.
The City~
At present, House Tarns Fury comprises
the foundation of the City. Guests are
regularly welcomed into the City, and
those adhering to the City's Guidelines
and Laws are granted passes to extend
their stays. Hospitality and warmth are
hallmarks of a visit to Woodhaven.
Woodhaven's main enterprise in
trade is the exportation of natural
resources available in the locale, such
as forest products, produce and
comestibles, and a growing mercantile
base. Woodhaven's slave trade is a
potential source for much revenue,
through the established Auction House on
the local Street of Brands. Woodhaven's
comfortable and busy vicinage along the
Vosk welcomes trade with other Cities
along the River, as well as throughout
Gor, via contacts made with the Ubar.
The Vosk Pearl Inn and
the Quivering Pearl Paga Den are just
two of the establishments available for
leisurely enjoyment during a visit to
the City. As the City is merchant based,
there are many merchants and craftsmen
that all produce quality items at fair
value, and are guarded by a strong City
coalition of guards, tarnsmen, and
kaiila and tharlarion cavalries.
Opportunities for growth are myriad.
Woodhaven's main enterprise in trade is
the exportation of natural resources
available in the locale, such as forest
products, produce and comestibles, and
a growing mercantile base. Woodhaven's
slave trade is a potential source for
much revenue, through the established
Auction House on the local Street of
Brands. Woodhaven's comfortable and busy
vicinage along the Vosk welcomes trade
with other Cities along the River, as
well as throughout Gor, via contacts
made with the Administrator.
The Citizenry~
The Citizens of Woodhaven come together
in their daily work and rest, and they
gather for oft-occurring celebrations
and ceremonies honoring new members,
Caste status recognition, joinings, and
more. Woodhaven citizens, strongly
bonded to one another by their triumph
over adversity, take pride in one
another's achievements. The Men of the
City, predominantly Rarii, are trained
intensively to master their Caste
skills. It is expected that Citizens of
age register with their Caste and apply
the knowledge for the betterment of the
City. Rarii are assisted in establishing
Caste membership to the RRaMC, and
Woodhaven has its own local chapter to
determine qualifications. The FW of
Woodhaven are strong and independent,
and base their actions and attitudes on
the guidelines the Gorean Chronicles
have set forth. The Free Women of
Woodhaven strive to cultivate a
consistent and stable balance between
the opposing natures of Men and Women.
The Men and Women of Woodhaven are
expected to follow City Guidelines at
all times.
The kajirae of Woodhaven are of the highest
quality as befits the standards of this
merchant City. The highest expectations
are placed on the most exquisitely
trained red silk, as well as the newest
girl who may timidly make her first
serves clad in silks of white. A kajira
is expected at all times to act in
accordance with her nature and Master's
wishes, upholding continuously the
standard of absolute obedience and
all-encompassing beauty. Kajirae are
expected to adhere to the rules set by
the City, and they may be further
trained in healing, the art of scribing
or culinary skills as well as for the
cultivation of other talents, should
such be evinced.
Woodhaven is a Home Stone of quality
Citizens interested in active
participation at all levels of the
City's daily operation and functioning.
It is believed that strong Cities are
built slowly over time, allowing deeper
bonds to be formed. The City welcomes
inquiries regarding citizenship, and has
formal guidelines for admittance, to
include Houses, Castes and interviews
for a probationary period of time.
Contact the Administrator or En'Scribe for more information.