Nankin

Lore & Background

Despite its destruction, Tianjing remains a potent symbol in the lore of the trilogy. It represents the intersection of magic, politics, and human suffering. The spirits that linger there are said to be restless, bound by the violence that permeated the streets during its fall. For survivors like Rin, the city is not just a location but a memory of loss that drives their quest for vengeance.

Reader's Guide

Tianjing is situated in the fertile central plains of Nikan, making it strategically vital for controlling trade and agriculture. The climate features hot, humid summers and cold winters, typical of the region's monsoonal patterns. This environment supports dense population centers but also brings challenges during wartime logistics. Culturally, the city was a hub of art, philosophy, and military strategy. The Imperial Academy trained elites who would govern or fight for the empire. Strategically, its fall marked the turning point of the war. Control of Tianjing meant control over Nikan's legitimacy. Its destruction signaled the collapse of traditional order.

Did You Know?

• It serves as the primary setting for the trilogy's most devastating military conflict.
• The Imperial Palace within Tianjing houses the Emperor and the highest echelons of Nikanese power.
• Its fall is depicted through a lens of magical realism, blending war crimes with shamanic consequences.