InsaneJournal

Capital: Riften
Jarl: Laila Law-Giver
Steward: Anuriel
Court Wizard: Wylandriah
Alliance: The Imperial Legion
Typical Weather: The Rift's outer borders are made of the snowy Jerall Mountains, but the innermost land is made of lush green meadows. The weather is typically very pleasant in the Rift, and is arguably in the most beautiful region of Skyrim. While Riften as a city cannot compare to Solitude, the surrounding region is much more beautiful, dotted with the trees of the Autumnal Forest. Some days may be overcast, and it does rain every once in a while, but exploring the Rift is generally pleasant so long as you keep an eye out for wayward wildlife lurking off the trails, such as the cave bears and wolves.
Crime Rate: Ranking second to Markarth in terms of crime, Riften is home to the Thieves Guild. Though the Guild has been suffering in other regions and is trying desperately to bring themselves back to the glory days, their influence is still strong in Riften with the help of Maven Black-Briar. Maven relies on the Guild for a number of services crucial to keeping her meadery in business, and could very well dismantle the Guild if they don't do exactly what she says. Though Laila Law-Giver may be the Jarl of Riften, make no mistake. Maven Black-Briar is the one in charge, and has been for a while.
Economy: Riften's economy is primarily fueled by fish, mead, milling, and mining. There are two prominent meaderies in Skyrim, both of which are rivals. Black-Briar Meadery has the monopoly on the mead business, while the Fishery pulls in extra commerce. In addition, the mining town of Shor's Stone is home to an ebony mine, and Ivarstead has a successful sawmill business. There is an additional mill on the shore of Lake Honrich, and then a few small farms on the outskirts of the city.

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Located at the heart of the Rift, Riften is situated practically on top of Lake Honrich. The upper part of the city is mainly on land, but some parts of the city are accessible via piers and boardwalks. The central section of Riften is home to a small circular marketplace where local vendors sell their wares, though there's a few "brick and mortar" shops scattered around.

The city as a whole is a little worn-down which contrasts to the beauty of the surrounding forests, but the citizens of Riften seem to be okay with this. Most of the folks in Riften who make an honest living are hard workers and while Riften is dangerous in its way, the people are more-or-less friendly, especially the people who work the Temple of Mara. If you ever have a desire to get married, the Temple of Mara is the place to go.

On the higher level of Riften, there are several manors, the Temple of Mara, Mistveil Keep, a few shops, and the Honorhall Orphanage. Down in the canals, you have the apothecary, some lower-class housing for the working civilians, and the entrance door to the Ratways of Riften. Most folks tend to avoid the canals, due to the amount of foul play that happens below the public eye.

Located in the center of Lake Honrich is Goldenglow Estate. Goldenglow is the apiary responsible for the honey which gives Black-Briar Mead its special flavor. The Estate is inaccessible to the public and guarded by several mercenaries hired by Aringoth - the owner of Goldenglow.

Over towards the border that divides Falkreath and The Rift is the small milling town of Ivarstead, but Ivarstead holds a special significance, being at the foot of the tallest mountain in all of Skyrim - the Throat of the World. The Throat of the World is actually a part of Whiterun Hold, but the "Seven Thousand Steps" carry you over the border on your way up towards High Hrothgar.

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PLACES IN RIFTEN
These are the more notable locations within and near the city.

• Mistveil Keep
• Ivarstead
• Shor's Stone

Inns

• The Bee & Barb

Shops

• The Black-Briar Meadery
• The Pawned Prawn
• The Scorched Hammer
• Elgrim's Elixirs
• Riften Marketplace

Player Home

• Honeyside Manor

Thieves Guild

• The Ragged Flagon
• Ragged Flagon - Cistern

Other

• Hall of the Dead
• Temple of Mara
• Honorhall Orphanage
• The Ratway
• Riften Stables
• Riften Fishery
• Heartwood Mill
• Sarethi Farm
• Snow-Shod Farm
• Merryfair Farm