Ashtan Presentation for Convention

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "First, our thanks to our hosts of the Asterian Restoration
for hosting this convention. It is my honour and pleasure to tell you about Ashtan, the Bastion of
the North, the Steel Bastion, city for the strong and free. Settled by the descendants of Glanos,
the city has much to offer the adventurer who believes in the true precepts of Freedom.."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Not freedom from responsibility, but the freedom to make
your own choices, as long as you are willing to accept the consequences of those decisions."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Of all the cities, Ashtan most represents the dichotomy
that is Humanity - the drive for knowledge and conquest, the desire for order opposing the need for
disorder and chaos, and the quest to resolve the two."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Many of tonight's presenters have spoken of history and
precepts of their cities. As a young newcomer to Ashtan, I'm offering a more personal perspective,
an overview of what Ashtan has offered me, and why it is the city I choose, and will always be proud
to name as my home."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "While the Asthani reputation is one of war and conquest -
and we excel at both - the Steel city offers a great deal more to the adventurer who truly embraces
her. We have eschewed the pampered excesses and pretentiousness of decandent luxury in favor of the
clean beauty of simple lines and elegant adornments."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "As a bard and a performer, I've often been asked why I
stay in Ashtan rather than moving to a city that's more... cultured. My answer to that is that
Ashtan offers culuture aplenty - of all sorts. On any walk around the city, the traveler is likely
to pass corsairs whistling merry tunes as they go about their guard duties. They're always ready
with a witty quip - even tossing off bon mots as they skewer those who would dare attack us."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "My citymates have often heard me aplaud their style.."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "We are a city dedicated to knowledge. The Nicator Archives
boast some of the most complete records of Sapience' history, as well as beautifully appointed rooms
with stunnning displays and statues commemorating important moments in our history."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Likewise, the Palace grounds serve as a working museum of
our history and culture. There, you'll find tapestries and stained glass displays that honor our
greatest heroes and kings, as well as the brave adventurers who gathered in force to throw off the
shackles of domination and become the first Free city of the world."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Even our streets and structures honor those who put their
stamp on the Steel Basition. The gates through which all pass to enter Asthan are named for
Zarathustra, the noble who organized Ashtani and allies to take the city back when the forces of
Shallam invaded and infitrated."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "In the Norrthern reaches of the city, the wise King Martin
is commemorated by Martin's Sorrow, a recognition that even in his wisdom, the good King Martin was
not able to abolish poverty. It is there that our current Minister of Culture, Khaibit Kintsukuroi
D'Ischai is working to establish a paty out of poverty for those willing to work hard and make
something of themselves."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "Our participation here today - and any of the fine Ashtani
drinks and goods you purchase from our carts - are all to benefit the Minister's project - an
Artisan's Quarter that will feature goods designed and crafted by our finest artisans. Nearby,
you'll also find one of the city's other treasures -- burgers! We've broght an assorment of those
with us to share in our pavilion."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "In fact, food and drink are an integral part of our
culture. I'm proud to say that the Fire and Spice Tavern offers an assortment of food and drinks
that draw heavily from history and culture. A night of drinking at the Spice is a veritable history
lesson, and Dagon, our bakeep, is easily the most skilled mixologist on all Sapience and beyond."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "But of course, Ashtan is far more than its buildings and
streets and foods and drinks. We are most represented by the spirit of Freedom with Responsibilty,
best explained in our creed, written by Amunet Viatrix, one of our city's most accomplished
citizens:."

Seraya stands tall and recites with pride, "We, the citizens of Ashtan, dedicate ourselves to the
ideals of freedom. We declare our liberty to live as we choose, with the foreknowledge that choice
begets consequence. We recognise each person's unique vision, and affirm the value thereof. We
embrace the paradox of freedom; unity through individuality, strength through diversity. We
acknowledge our debt to the past, turn a resolute gaze to the future, and seize our destiny."

Seraya says in a smooth contralto voice, "I invite you all to step back to our pavilion, try our
drinks and food, and learn more about the city I love. Thank you!"