Places and Power Centers of Olympia
1. Mt. Olympus: Nearly identical to that of its counterpart on Earth, the gods painstakingly recreated this home of sorts for the gods floating in the clouds above the Northern mountain range of mainland Olympia. All of the Olympians are welcome here, but mortals rarely witness the marble perfection of its halls.
Zeus: As king of the gods, Zeus’ throne on Mt. Olympus is the center of his power where he keeps his most powerful weapons, and is the symbolic representation of the Olympian’s combined might. This is also were he keeps his great Thunderbolt, which allows him to literally catch and throw lightning on command.
Hestia: The Hearth of Olympia is the seat of Hestia’s power, and where she keeps her most treasured items. This is also were she keeps her sacred torch, a flame that can never be extinguished, even under water.
Hephaestus: The Forge at Olympia is the seat of Hephaestus’s power, and the sight of his main workshop. Many of his greatest creations are housed here, including items he deemed too dangerous to let loose into the world. This is also where he keeps his great hammer, a tool so powerful, it forged all the great magical weapons of the Olympians.
2. Scythia: The main city of the powerful Amazons, who hold vast lands of conquered territory in the east, and as far north at the Great forest of Orion. They raid often into the cities of the West, and have been engaging in wars with the mercenary Achillions for centuries. Their society is a matriarchy, with the city proper reserved only for female warriors of standing. Men within their territories are little more than slaves, and it is not uncommon for an Amazonian warrior of wealth and standing to own dozens.
Hera: Her sacred temple in Scythia is the seat of her expansive power, and where she keeps both her weapons of choice, and most prized possessions, including the magical girdle she once allowed to be gifted to her granddaughter Hippolyta by Ares. Once taken by the hero Heracles the girdle has long since been reclaimed by the Amazons. The girdle is an important status symbol denoting the strength of each Amazon Queen or their champion as the strongest amongst them. It is also a powerful piece of armor that enhances the strength and reflexes of the wearer, as it evokes and reflects the strength of the goddess herself.
Chariot of Hera: While not as flashy as the one Apollo uses to drag the sun through the sky, Hera’s chariot is capable of flying through the sky, pulled by her menagerie of magical peacocks.
3. Atlantis: The city beneath the waves, Atlantis is both a watery grave for a once fatally proud human city, and trophy seat of Poseidon’s power. The remains of the old city have long since been adapted to the use of the nymphs and merpeople today, but many of the large original structures remain as a looming reminder of the consequences of the hubris of man. Few demigods can venture here safely without an invitation, the notable exception being the children of Poseidon himself.
Poseidon: The temple of Poseidon can be found in the remains of the city’s center. Once a gleaming palace encrusted with jewels and pearl, it has long since been reconfigured into a throne room for the mighty sea god, and a place of worship. Sheathed there at the base of his throne is also where one could find his Trident, one of the most powerful weapons ever created for the gods. Whoever wields it holds unquestioned dominion over all who dwell within the sea, and the very waves themselves become a weapon at their disposal.
4. Hades (A.K.A. The Underworld): Known by most simply as the land of the dead, Hades is a world layered in mystic. Serving as the final resting place for mortals of both Earth and Olympia, Hades is also a linking dimension that connects the two worlds. Hades is a world however, that is greatly compartmentalized and segregated, though all souls must arrive with a coin on the River Styx. Most souls wind up in the Asphodel Meadows, fated to wander listlessly as shadows of their former selves. The greatest of heroes wind up in the paradise of the Elysium, to forever feast and be merry. And then there’s Tartarus. Those who commit grieves crimes, or greatly offend the gods find themselves within the pit of Tartarus to receive horrid, and often personalized, torture. It’s best to avoid Tartarus.
Hades: More times than not, the god of the dead spends his time in Hades. Both Earth and Olympia can be beautiful places, but he has always preferred the steady sureness of his own kingdom. This is especially true, and much pop culture on Earth tries to paint him as a villain, and most cities in Olympia are wary of openly worshiping him. Villain or not, most mortals don’t care for the thought of catching the attention of the Lord of the Dead. When he does choose to observe humanity, he often wears his Helm of Darkness, which allow the wearer to remain invisible and undetectable; even to other gods and magic. When Hades is not wearing the Helm, it can be found on the dais beside his throne in the Underworld.
Hecate: As the goddess of arcane magic who favors places of the in-between, it is no surprise that Hecate takes up residence in Hades. Unlike the great Olympian twelve, Hecate does not have wide spread temples or patron cities, and she would never trust her sacred artifacts to wandering cults. Instead she keeps a modest chamber in the palace of the Underworld, which house her most prized, and powerful, possessions. The foremost of these possessions being the great Tome of Hecate, a spell book of immense power filled with every spell and technique the goddess has ever contemplated. In the wrong hands, the book is a magical nuke aimed at the universe; which is why even Zeus has sense to give Hecate a wide berth. Because of this, the Tome rarely leaves her chamber, and it is quite difficult to find. The doorway seems to have the devious habit of moving itself around.
5. New Delphi: Similar in nearly every aspect to its predecessor, New Delphi is an island devoted primarily to the oracles, and their temple to Apollo. Those who dare to try and divine the future come here to see what the fates have instore for them, and those with the gift themselves often flock here for safe haven. Still more poor souls come to the temple hoping to be healed of their afflictions, though the doctors have arguable more to do with that than the temple. The city itself does have a thriving commercial center, servicing primarily pilgrims, the desperately ill, and the throngs of men foolish enough to seek the council of the oracles. The real power however, belongs to the priests of Apollo’s temple. Nothing happens in New Delphi without their say-so, and nobody leaves either. While often better than the lives they came from before, many of the oracles find themselves more prisoners of the temple than anything else. The money people pay for their guidance and premonitions never reach the oracles’ hands, and once on the island, few have ever managed to leave.
Apollo: The temple of Apollo is the centerpiece of New Delphi, though the great god himself rarely makes an appearance. Often on Earth, the sun god tends to neglect his city, though that has never dissuaded the faithful from coming. He does however, often keep his bow in the temple, hiding in plain sight on the statue of his likeness. The bow of Apollo can only be lifted however by one of his (or his sister’s) blood, making it a weapon extremely limited in use to any enterprising demi-gods. For those who can wield it however, it is a deadly weapon. Lethally accurate from inhuman distances, the bow of Apollo is capable not only of this long range sniper action, but is also capable of firing several arrows at a time.
6. Athenapolis: Known as the “White City” to many in Olympia, Athenapolis is one of the powerhouses of the land. Arguable the most technologically advanced of any city in Olympia, it is without a doubt, the major center of learning. It is also a city that is deeply isolationist, and heavily fortified against outsiders. Those who wish to enter the city must either have coveted trade licenses, or swear their service to the Citadel, a university of sorts dedicated to the discovery, and cataloging, of all perceivable knowledge. Those who have sworn such allegiance to the Citadel are branded, and may never again leave the city without permission from the Consul. Such permission is rare.
Athena: Often one for disguises, Athena spends quite a bit of time out and about within her white city. The great temple of Athena lies, unsurprisingly, within the walled city of Athenapolis. The temple itself is heavily guarded within the Citadel, and includes the magnificent statue of Athena. On the statue itself, can be found two treasures; the famous shield Aegis, and the powerful Spear of Athena.
Aegis: The famous shield, used by both Zeus and Athena, is a weapon often gifted to demigods of both parentages. Strong, light, and neigh indestructible, Aegis is a handy shield to have in combat.
Spear of Athena: Not to be overlooked as a goddess of war, the Spear of Athena has tasted it’s fair share of blood. While not as temperamental as some of the gods’ great celestial weapons, the spear demands to be wielded by someone worthy. For any the spear deems such, it is a formidable weapon; well balanced, exceptional aim, and endowed with the strength of the goddess herself.
7. The Great Forest of Orion: Vast and immeasurably dangerous, the Great Forest of Orion is a wild and looming landscape on the face of Olympia. Few dare to tread here but the heartiest of heroes, or pilgrims to the Temple of Artemis, for amongst the trees lurk some of Olympia’s most dangerous monsters —and they are always hungry. Even the forest itself can become a threat, as wild magic flows here unchecked, bridled by neither man nor god alike. Only the hunter priestesses of Artemis are truly sure footed in these woods, but they do not protect the weak. Only those who can reach the temple that lies deep within the forest, by their own strength, may seek refuge there. Few ever make it that far.
Artemis: Like its twin, the Bow of Artemis can only be lifted however by one of her (or her brother’s) blood, making it a weapon of extremely limited use to any enterprising demi-gods. For those who can wield it however, it is a deadly weapon. Lethally accurate from inhuman distances, the bow of Artemis is capable not only of this long range sniper action, but is also capable of firing several arrows at a time. Like her brother’s the silvery bow can be found staged upon the statue of Artemis in her great temple.
8. The Island of Hedonys: Known primarily for its beautiful beaches and loose morality, the island of Hedonys is first and foremost a place of business. Anything, and anyone, is for sale here; making it both Olympia’s biggest slave market, as well as party destination. Wealthy patrons from across Olympia travel to Hedonys to meet the hetairai; men and women of such renowned beauty and grace that people quite literally pay fortunes for the pleasure of their company. To call them prostitutes however, would be a grave misrepresentation, as these individuals are both savvy individuals of business, and skilled politicians. More than half of the city council seats are made up of hetairai, and the remaining seats from the merchant guilds owe much of their business to their alluring reputation. Unsurprisingly, Aphrodite is the patron goddess of the city, and her marble temple is nestled securely in the heart of its center.
Aphrodite: Unsurprisingly, Aphrodite’s temple resides in one of the most beautiful cities in Olympia. The city is so beautiful and wealthy in fact, than many wonder why it has never been invaded, especially given their limited military forces. The heart of that, lies with the Golden Apple of Discord that resides in the temple of Aphrodite. Once presented to her as proof that she was the fairest of the goddesses by Prince Paris, the Apple of Discord has long since been infused with protective powers by the goddess herself. The Apple itself provides a kind of natural protection to the island, dissuading any who may come against doing it harm. Those who hold the Apple will find their enemies can hardly stand to hold a blade against them, and in the hands of a child of Aphrodite…their intention may turn to other things entirely.
9. The Achillos Mercenary Bands: Most often, one can find these roaming mercenary bands camped on the plains somewhere between the Aeonis Mountains and the Kingdom of Corinthia, but they are scattered throughout Olympia. Wherever there is war, the Achillos follow. Professional soldiers without a kingdom, the Achillos are named themselves after the greatest warrior in history; Achilles. Affiliations between the bands are loose, with each company of men free to sign separate contracts, fly their own banner and colors, and adhere to their own hierarchy. They are however, bound loosely by a code of conduct that distinguishes them as Achillos, and not mere sell swords. Once a contract is signed, the Achillos will not break it unless their client does so first, and violence against children is strictly off limits. Many bands have annual contracts with the Kingdom of Corinthia, protecting them from invasion. The Amazons in particular are notorious enemies of the Achillos. Others prefer to be used as supplementary forces for invading armies. Each company is headed by a captain, who is recognized as both the strongest and most cunning of their band.
Ares: It is no surprise to most that Ares, god of war, shows his favor to the Achillos. While his great temple is housed within the city of Corinthia, Ares prefers to either keep his weapons close, or distributed amongst his worthy children. The Sword of Ares, when not in use by the god himself, will often entrust it to one of his children who has proven themselves in the Agon. For the last twenty years, that honor has been bestowed upon his son Torryn, a demi-god turned mercenary captain of the Achillos. The sword itself is a reflection of Ares power with a near sentience of its own, and will reject any not of Ares blood that the sword itself has deemed worthy. Temperamental and brutally efficient, there are few besides the god himself who can wield this sword effectively. Those that can however, will find their sword arm neigh unbeatable, as this blade thirsts for blood, and has never fallen in battle.
10. Dyonis: Known as the city of Satyrs, not many humans enter this rollicking city on the edge of the Aeonis Mountains. Known for their lusty antics and perpetual drunkenness, it comes as no surprise that the Satyrs know how to throw a good party, and do so often. Nymphs, minor gods, and even Dionysus himself are known to join in the revelry, leaving the city practically littered with celestial energy, and even loose magical items. Never ending wine goblets are a particular favorite party favor, and can be found all over the city. There is also however, an undercurrent of barely suppressed madness that lurks within the very air of the city. Humans and demi-gods alike should not spend too much time here, as that madness has a tendency to infect the mortals who venture within the city’s walls.
Thyrsus: also known as the “Staff of Dionysus”, Thyrsus has the frightening ability to effect the minds and emotions of any it is wielded against. Innocent enough looking, with its decorative wrapped vines and pinecone top, it is a weapon that that can drive an enemy into the depths of euphoria, anguish, rage…or madness. When wielded by any who have a natural ability for manipulation thought or emotions, the effect is tenfold, and is rumored to even have to power to take control of mortal minds. When not held by Dionysus himself, Thyrsus can be found on the dais of the great hall of Dyonis, where the god himself is often leading feasts.
11. The Aeonis Mountains: One of the most striking landscapes in all of Olympia, the Aeonis mountains stretch from the heart of the Forest of Orion to the plains of Corinthia. Many villages and nomadic tribes call these mountains home, and the rocky hills have long been known as a haven for bandits and thieves. Riddled with caves and hidden valleys, Aeonis is a perfect place to hide for those who do not wish to be found. One such cave, is where the god Hermes prefers to tuck his treasures away, despite his great temple in Corinthia. Never one to keep his things in so obvious a place, the patron god of thieves and liars prefers to keep his center of power close to the faithful; and the motley bands to roam his hills are his faithful.
Caduceus: The famous staff of Hermes has many purported uses, few of which can be verified. The most numerous legends claim the staff allows Hermes to communicate over long distances, put people to sleep where they stand, and even bring the dead back to life.
Winged Sandals: Hermes has several pairs of these famously winged footwear, which gives the wearer the ability to fly on their own. Please note that each pair is designed to carry up to one person only, and that these shoes can be exceptionally flighty. Lace well, and double knot, because they just might try and make a break for it…in midair.
12. Corinthia: While there are many scattered kingdoms within Olympia, the greatest is inarguably Corinthia. It is the biggest, wealthiest, and most central to world trade, not to mention the breadbasket of Olympia. The Lands of Corinthia are so fertile, that legend suggests to drop a berry in its soil it to spring up a bush overnight. Blessed by the goddess Demeter, hunger does not exist here, but where there is prosperity, jealous eyes will always follow. The Amazons in particular are constant invaders into Corinthian lands, making seasonal warfare an expected part of life. To combat this looming threat, the Kingdom of Corinthia keeps several companies of Achillos Mercenary Companies on retainer to defend them from this threat. The tactic has worked for several centuries, and so well, that in the minds of many, they cannot remember a time where this was not so. The Achillos are so romanticized in Corinthian culture in fact, that some of their greatest plays often depict tragic or humorous love affairs between Achillos warriors and Corinthian nobles; a fiction that hits closer to the truth than most in high society are willing to acknowledge.
Demeter: It is not entirely certain why Demeter chose to bless the kingdom of Corinthia so thoroughly as she did. Some believe the royal family to be her descendants, others prefer the story of the starving shepherd boy who shared his last scraps of food with a disguised Demeter who, taking pity upon the people of Corinthia, removed famine from its lands and made the Shepherd boy a king. Still more choose to combine the two, but the fact remains that Corinthia is undeniably blessed, and the goddess both houses her great temple here, as well as the object of her power; the Cornucopia.
Cornucopia: Also known as the “horn of plenty” the cornucopia has the ability to spread fertility to any land in which it passes, and is always overflowing with food, no matter how many times it is upended. Whenever it is not with the goddess Demeter on her many travels, the Cornucopia resides safely guarded in the palace of Corinthia. For centuries, the royal family have safe guarded it from invaders, and in return, the Cornucopia keeps the land fertile, and harvest bountiful.
