Imperial Iris

The palace complex known as the Imperial Iris is nestled in the center of Rhajada. It is a symbol of innovation, elegance and power within the Empire of the Jade Eye. The iris quite literally functions as the seat of governance, authority and vision for The Jade Eye and the citizens of the empire.

The Iris

The circular palace complex spans three levels. The ground level serves as the main entrance and provides space for the government and ceremonial practices. Most importantly this level features the throne room of the Jade Eye, but one can also find a number of small parks, housing for the workers of the palace and many administrative offices of the empire here. Descending to the lower level reveals subterranean hot springs, meditation rooms and museums. It also features libraries and archives where scholars and citizens study and chronicle everything that concerns the empire. On the upper level, you can find panoramic rooftop gardens and great workshops and guild halls for craftspeople, artists and artisans to work and showcase their talents. To transition between the levels, enchanted platforms gracefully glide along tracks, these platforms are powered through magitech enchantments akin to the carts that traverse the streets of Rhajada but the platforms are much larger to allow for multiple people to use them at the same time. On top of that, the tracks and the platforms of the Iris are adorned with shining brass and are a bit more elegant and intricate in design.

Innovation

The sprawling complex serves as a hub for exchanging ideas, fostering connections, and seeking inspiration. It is a gathering place where the brightest and most talented citizens of the empire converge to engage in intellectual discourse and creative pursuits. Prominent guilds and accomplished artisans have established their workshops within the Iris. These skilled craftspeople bring their expertise and creative vision to the heart of the empire. The Iris facilitates for all these to people collaborate, experiment, and refine their techniques so that they may further elevate the level of craftsmanship, knowledge and artistry within the empire.

Elegance

Despite its emphasis on functionality, the Imperial Iris has managed to achieve a remarkable balance between geometric precision and elegant design. The geometric elements of the Iris's architecture, such as symmetrical patterns, clean lines, and precise angles, imbue the complex with a sense of order and balance. These features not only lend an air of sophistication but also contribute to the overall efficiency and practicality of the building. Even though the designers of the Imperial Iris recognized the importance of creating spaces that inspire awe and wonder they also ensured that the design remained grounded and at a proper scale for the Jadean people. The public areas inspire awe with towering columns and arches, soaring ceilings, and vast open spaces. In contrast, the more private spaces are intentionally created to make a person feel comfortable and at ease, with wooden floors, inviting alcoves and architectural elements of proportions that do not make a person feel small and insignificant.

Power

The architecture of the Imperial Iris and the many sculptures within it feature an incredible amount of Rainbow Jade incorporated within them. The gemstone is applied to facades, ornaments, fountains and statues throughout the palace complex. They form a network of sorts that renders most magical practices impossible within the Iris. This Crystallomancy array is one of the largest of its kind, and is thought to be based on old Ankoyan knowledge. It serves as form of security within the palace, but also as a reminder and a symbol of the empire's power control over magic, emphasizing the power and unwavering authority of the empire and its sovereign.