ROCBG - Rhydin Observatory Complex and Botanical Garden

[Rhiannon D Harker]

ROCBG - Rhydin Observatory Complex and Botanical Garden

The ROCBG was built on a land grant donated to the city of Rhydin by Briarius Ravensheart and is located behind the Ravensheart Academy's Administration Building in Dragon's Gate. Then Governor Fionna Helston al-Amat had polled citizens for opinions on uses for land parcel 34-j7f005. The suggestions included an observatory, botanical garden, and public gardening space. After running the numbers on the land available, it was learned that there was enough space for all three of these things.

The Observatory Complex and Botanical Garden are public educational and entertainment facilities. An official opening and dedication was held at the Governor’s Yule Ball in December 2013. The patio and walkways that surround the area contain bricks engraved with dedications to the memories of deceased and missing citizens of Rhydin. Several of the park benches have also memorial plaques.

The complex’s cornerstone bears the name of Harker and Hall Architecture, Ltd. The cornerstone was one of two concessions requested in exchange for services rendered to the city. Responsible for the design, building, and upkeep of the ROCBG, H&H is a family owned and run business that operates in the City of Rhydin as well as the surrounding realms. Richard D. Harker and his longtime friend, Albert W. Hall, are the joint owners of this organization. Harker’s wife, Rhiannon, is in charge of Public Relations. Mrs. Harker also serves as General Manager for the Observatory Complex. Another member of the family, Eregor Túr Gairdín manages the Botanical Garden.

Facilities within the observatory building honor and remember several citizens. The Botanical Garden, however, was dedicated in memory of one person, Fayalki the Hunter. For many years, Fayalki served his adopted home as a shaman and healer. He is best remembered, along with his wife, Dechirant (Dey), as a beloved bartender at the Red Dragon Inn. His tomahawk still hangs on the wall behind the bar.

The Botanical Garden is home to a variety of plant species including examples of those native and non-native to the Realm of Rhydin. There is an active beehive and an ant colony within the conservatory. While the honeybees can safely be observed from behind a plexiglass wall, a reminder is posted for the benefit of those with allergies to bee venom. Doses of Epinephrine are kept on hand as an emergency precaution. Some of the honey produced by the hive is sold in jars and products sold in the cafe of observatory building. Restrooms are located just outside the conservatory.

There are plenty of places on the grounds to enjoy a stroll, a quiet place to think or read, or enjoy a picnic in the grove. A gazebo has played host to a few weddings and performances of local artists. A small carousel for children is open most of the year. Several greenhouses and garden plots are available to the public, free of charge. The only stipulation is those patrons that are growing plants known or found to be poisonous do so in one of the smaller, single holder, greenhouses that can be locked. During the winter freezes, a large pond is used for ice skating.

[Rhiannon D Harker]

((More images at https://www.deviantart.com/prlunicorn/g ... ms-3-ROCBG ))

The Rhydin Observatory Complex

The Observatory Complex boasts a number of facilities for the citizenry. Various classes are held, year round, including swimming, cooking, baking, dance, arts & crafts, astronomy, public speaking, basic computer operations and research skill. Classes for adults wishing to learn to read and write in the common language of Rhydin are available as weekday, evening, and weekend programs.

ROCBG has several available job opportunities. Information is available at the second floor reception desk during operating hours.

Current Facilities

Basement Level

Morgan le Fay du Cornwall Magic and Alchemy Laboratory

Named in honor of the Lady Morgan le Fay du Cornwall: 96th Overlord of the Duel of Swords, former Baroness of Old Market, and former holder of the 4 and 5th baronial rings.

The Philosophy and Practices of Alchemy - This class covers the history of the ancient forerunner of modern chemistry. Experimentation based upon those methods is a part of laboratory instruction.
Young beginners’, ages 5-10, sessions are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1pm-3pm.
Second level beginners’, ages 11-17, sessions are on Monday and Wednesdays, 1pm-3pm.
Classes for adults, 18 years and older, are two mornings, 9am-11am, (M&W or T&Th) per week. Adult students may also arrange for classes by appointment. The adult class includes a unit on preparing gems and gem dust for experiments.

Magical Studies, begin at 4pm and ending at 6pm, 7 days per week. Anyone age 10 and up may sign up. Students between 5 and 10 years will have a private group class and all students 5-17yrs must have a signed approval from a parent or guardian. Private sessions by appointment. Books and other materials are provided for all classes.

Secondary and undergraduate students may apply for credits toward their diploma. Approval from their school is required.

Edward Batten Science Laboratory

Named in honor of philanthropist, entrepreneur, and owner of Batten Industries, Edward Batten. Mr. Batten’s contributions to the city, including the safe delivery of RBF vaccines, are numerous.

Basic chemistry classes for students 10-17 are held in the basement lab, M-F, 1pm-3pm. Science classes for young children, ages 5-10 years, are held from 10am-noon, M-F. Week day classes are held in cooperation with several local schools. Weekend and evening classes are also eligible to be used as credit for several of Rhydin’s undergraduate programs.

Mur Ollavan Vinification Laboratory

Named in honor of Mur Ollavan. Mur is one of the few to have held the top title in all three of Rhydin’s dueling venues. He is also known for his appreciation of various alcoholic vintages.

This lab is for private and public group usage. Wine making classes are in the basement classroom from 7pm-9pm, M-F. This class is open to students 18 and older. Adults and children are invited to take part in the afternoon or weekend class series for juice making. Some of the beverages created here as well as a recipe book are available for purchase in the café. Specially crafted storage units create an ideal atmosphere to age various beverages.


All laboratories have been set up in the basement level rooms in order to allow the fullest protection to the other students and general populous from accidents. Walls, floors, and ceilings in the labs have been carefully reinforced to withstand seismographic vibrations and provide protection against fires.

Candy R. Hart Natatorium

Named in honor of Candy R. Hart: 90th Overlord of the Duel of Swords and former Baroness of Old Market.

The natatorium covers nearly a third of the basement level. The pool has depths from two feet to fifteen feet to accommodate swimmers of all skill levels. Restroom, shower, and baby changing facilities are located in the pool area. A saltwater aquarium has been installed in the entrance wall.

Swimming classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students are held in the Natatorium. Several instructors are on hand and positions are open for qualified lifeguards. Hours are posted in the building for swimming, CPR, and first aid classes for certification, as well as availability for private events and small parties.

G'nort Dragoon-Talanador Recreation Center

Named in honor of G'nort Dragoon-Talanador: 103rd Overlord of the Duel of Swords, one of two people to have been the Baron of all seven of the named districts, former holder of the 4th, 5th, and 9th baronial rings, and former owner of the Rhydin Duel of Swords Arena. He is well known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and service to the city of Rhydin.

The recreation center fills the remaining space in the basement level. Several games including pool tables, foosball, arcade machines, chess tables, etc. are located in a comfortable space. Students can take a study break and unwind. Others can have a little fun increasing their skills or challenging friends.

[Rhiannon D Harker]

Ground Level

Kathryn Batten Café

Named in honor of Kathryn ‘Katt’ Batten: pâtissière, philanthropist, and former Governor of Rhydin.

The café includes two buffet tables, indoor seating, and tables on the patio for those that wish to enjoy their meals outdoors. An elevator provides easy access to transport freshly made meals, snacks, and desserts between the industrial kitchen on the second floor and the ground floor café. A wood fire pizza oven, refrigerated dessert case, and beverage bar are among the features that make it a cozy place. Advance notice is required to reserve the facility for private parties or large public events.

Sheridan Driscol Performing Arts Center

Named in honor of Sheridan Driscol: luthier and former Governor of Rhydin.

The performance hall was built with materials to enhance the acoustics. It can be set up for musical and dance performances. Being adjacent to the café makes it an ideal place for parties and receptions.

Tasslehofl Momus Library and Media Center

Named in honor of John Tasslehofl Momus: 81st Overlord of the Duel of Swords and holder of several other titles, owner of the Momus Athenaeum.

The library and media center requires a membership, but use of the facility is free of charge. Classes in basic computer skills, resume writing, and creative writing are held twice a week. Several self-paced classes are available for personal enrichment and school credits. Books and other materials may be checked out for use at home or used through the city’s digital services networks.

Ebon and Phen Ilnaren Childcare Center

Named in honor of Ebon and Phen Seer Ilnaren: well-known for their humanitarian activities especially on behalf of children, former Governor and First Lady of Rhydin.

Daycare is available for students, employees, and visitors to the Observatory and Garden.

Fountain of Healing Waters

The Fountain of Healing Waters in the garden area is dedicated to the Scathachian Sisterhood.

[Rhiannon D Harker]

Second Floor

Floor Plan


The second floor features a lecture hall/auditorium, commercial kitchen, dance and art studios

Fionna Helston Reception and Lecture Center

Named in honor of former Governor Fionna Helston, the reception and lecture center takes up about half of the second floor. Suitable for movie showings, meetings/classes, and overnight events.








Ariana MacGyldren Culinary Arts Center

Named in honor of long time citizen, master baker, artist, philanthropist and owner of Divine Delights Bakery, Ariana MacGyldren. Various levels of cooking and baking classes are taught here; some by Ariana, herself. Food served in the cafe is prepared here on a daily basis.








Riley Lo Memorial Dance Studio

Named in memory of Riley O'Rourke Lo; barrister, dance instructor, and philanthropist. Classes in ballet,tap, and other forms of dance are held here several times a week. Seasonal recitals are held on the first level of the building. The studio has its own rest room facility and changing room.





Sylus Kurgan Sculpture and Art Studio

Named in honor of Sylus Kurgan, blacksmith and former manager of the Duel of Swords Arena. Classes in sculpture, painting, drawing, and other arts are held here several times a week.

[Rhiannon D Harker]

Observation Deck

The Matthew Simon Astronomical Center is located on the Observation Deck. Named in honor of Rhydin Air and Space Guard Commanding Office and former Governor, Matthew Algiers Simon.

There are two bilevel structures each housing a fifty seat planetarium in the lower level and a state of the art observatory in the upper level. Classes in Astronomy, Navigation, and related subjects are offered as well as private and educational group events. Like other available classes, credit will given to students that have the approval of their instructors.

[Rhiannon D Harker]

Sample Schedule for the Rhydin Observatory Complex and Botanical Garden.

There are guided tours with docents and self guided tours may be taken through the garden. Group classes can be arranged with Eregor, who is the manager, or at the welcome desk on the second floor of the Observatory building.

Community garden plots open for large groups or individuals that want to enjoy growing their own food, but haven't the space where they live. Some securable greenhouses are available.

Swimming classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students will be held in the Natatorium. Several instructors are on hand and positions are open for qualified lifeguards. Hours are posted in the building for swimming classes as well as availability for private events and small parties.

Baking classes on all levels, will be taught by Ariana MacGyldren of Divine Delights Bakery, and held in the afternoons, Monday-Friday, from 1pm-3pm in the kitchen on the second level.

Candy making for beginners, taught by Elaine Aqua, also of Divine Delights Bakery, will be held in the mornings, Monday-Friday 9am-11am.

Cooking classes for beginners, taught by Nicole Brock, will be Monday-Friday from 3pm-5pm.

The Observatory and Planetarium units are open to the public daily from 9am-7PM. Special and private events are available after 7pm and until 2am.

The library and media center require a membership, but use of the facility is free of charge. Daycare follows similar rules and is available for students, employees, and visitors to the Observatory and Garden.

Basic chemistry class will be held in the basement lab, M-F, 1pm-3pm. Magical Studies, beginning at 4pm and ending at 6pm. Anyone age 10 and up may sign up. Students between 5 and 10 years will have a private group class and all students 5-17yr must have a signed approval from a parent or guardian.

Wine making classes will be in the basement classroom and open from 7pm-9pm, M-F. This class is open to students 18 and older. The lab may be also used for private events for children to learn to make their own juice based drinks.

Art and Dance classes are scheduled throughout the summer in the classrooms. Art classes include painting and sculpture. Dance includes beginning ballet, jazz, and waltzing. Tap will be taught by Eregor.

A variety of films will be shown in the lecture hall over the weekends and, perhaps, have a slumber party to wind up the summer. Lock-ins for groups and birthday parties are available by appointment.

Guest instructor participation is welcome, please make arrangements at the Welcome Desk. Arrangements made in person with Mrs. Harker or Mr. Túr Gairdín are also acceptable.


((Players are invited and encouraged to use the Observatory and Botanical Garden as part of their SLs. Questions can be addressed on The Visiting Room thread or via PM to PrlUnicorn))