MATERIA

The city with the driest air, this port is on the northern edge of the Western Desert. Most structures here are built of sand brick and plaster. The city serves as a minor port of Pittston exports but is better known for exporting glass, both cast and blown.

Kario is approximately 500km from Pittston by road, but only 400km by fast-moving river barge. Halfdon, 190km upstream, is often an overnight stop to provide travelers a comfortable rest at the middle of the four-day downstream trip. Upstream the barges are pushed against the current by pelaons at some points and drawing animals walking a riverside path along others, resulting in a 7-8 day trip. (The average wagon trip with Pittston goods is at least 12 days to Kario and 5-8 days back empty)

Barge Pool

Bargemen’s Memorial

City Hall

Glassworks Row

Glass Sculpture Gallery

The primary industry here is, of course, glass. Sand, stone, and certain animals and plants unique to the desert are gathered and exported as well, with nearly half of all sand and stone being traded with Pittston.

The trade economy has suffered with the construction of the railroad line to New Bacam, which now provides greater shipping capacity for Pittston which once was served by Kario.

Most structures here are built of sand brick and plaster. A fair amount of glass is used in construction as well, although windows are generally used at night due to the heat.

Kario is constructed at the point where two major rivers empty into the ocean, and is protected from high waves by two mountainous offshore islands visible on the horizon. Most residential construction here is adobe and glass, with various metals integrated. Glassworks are built into hillsides along the river shore reinforced with stone and metal.