Estalle Island


Estalle Island map

Estalle Island, situated within the southern reaches of Procopia in the Tapani sector, was a relatively small landmass. During the Imperial Era, the urban sprawl of Estalle city completely enveloped it. This city, serving as the age-old power center for Shey Tapani's dominion, remained the sector's primary capital. The island served as the social, political, and economic nucleus of the Expanse.

Acquiring property on Estalle was exceedingly difficult, accessible only to the sector's most influential individuals. Securing an apartment or villa necessitated both political backing and substantial financial resources, often amounting to millions of credits.

The historical section of Estalle Island showcased ancient Tapani architectural styles, characterized by domed towers and temples. During the Galactic Civil War period, many structures were millennia old, constructed almost entirely from meticulously carved stone blocks. Despite their age, the buildings were largely structurally sound and well-maintained. Continuous construction over time resulted in layered additions to the original structures. It was typical for these buildings to incorporate numerous sub-buildings, extensions, and tiered rooks. Domes were a prominent element of Tapani architecture, with multiple domes of varying sizes frequently adorning a single building. Newer constructions, particularly in the Commercial district, mirrored contemporary galactic architectural trends.

Although access to Estalle was limited to cargo planes or ships, the city's streets often suffered from heavy traffic. Many of Estalle Island's wealthy and influential residents considered it a status symbol to navigate the city in aircars or repulsorlift vehicles.

The island's working-class population relied on the public transportation network. Two monorail lines, elevated above the streets, traversed the island. The Coast Line circled the island's perimeter, while the Crosstown line bisected it, connecting the Residential district to the Commercial district near the Harbor.

Canals crisscrossed Estalle Island, initially designed to drain the island's interior swamps. With the city's expansion, these canals evolved into an elegant mode of transportation, offering a faster alternative for commuters during periods of street congestion. Commercial canal traffic was restricted to public transportation, including water taxis, tour boats, and ship launches from the harbor. City police, maintenance vessels, and privately owned boats also utilized the canals. The canal system's connection to the sea allowed small watercraft to enter the city's heart directly from the ocean. However, the canals' shallow depth restricted larger vessels, requiring them to dock at Estalle Harbor. Throughout most of the island, ferroconcrete edges lined the canals, covered in moss. In the historical district, however, the canal edges were adorned with elaborate frescos, cleaned and maintained nightly by city workers.

Historical District

Historical District map

The Historical District on Estalle Island served as the center of the Tapani sector's governance. It housed important governmental bodies such as the Great Council and Senate, along with embassies representing noble houses and other governing entities. This area was characterized by impressive buildings, elaborate statues, grand fountains, and numerous plazas and parks. Zoning regulations limited building heights to five stories, preserving the visibility of the ancient structures.

During business hours, the Historical District welcomed all visitors; however, access after hours was restricted to nobles and individuals with special permits.

Commercial District

Commercial District map

The business activities on Estalle Island were centered in the Commercial District. It housed a multitude of service industries that supported the Tapani sector's administrative functions. These included establishments such as restaurants, bars, banks, and cleaning services. The Commercial District also hosted offices for numerous lobbyists representing diverse business interests, as well as major corporations catering to the needs of the noble class.

This district also served as the primary hub for transportation to other areas of Procopia and the Tapani sector, featuring a spaceport, airport, and seaport.

To maximize the limited space available on the island, many buildings in the Commercial District were constructed as towering skyscrapers.

Residential District

Residential District map

While many nobles owning property on Procopia possessed private islands, those able to afford accommodation on Estalle resided in the Residential District. Every noble house maintained at least one official residence in this district for formal events. Although most estates were relatively small, some, like House Melantha's Malgrin Palace, were grand and imposing, hosting the annual Raelli Ball during Capital Season. Residences rarely became available for purchase, with most remaining within the same family for generations.

Although many areas of this district were accessible to the public, certain sections were restricted to individuals possessing the proper admittance credentials. Residences typically featured robust security systems, with guards patrolling the grounds.

Sources

  • Player's Guide to Tapani
  • Lords of the Expanse

Appearances