Seluca
- The Iron Dome
- Silk Row
- The Twins
- Palace of Embers
Seluca
Where the sand meets the sea
Nestled on the Gulf's southern coast, this small port city has continued to act as a bridge between land and sea. Recently there have been a rash of rebellions, marring Seluca's ancient pedigree. Having just ousted a foreign usurper, the people now seek to rebuild under their new leader.Where the sand meets the sea
Overview
Demographic
Though largely populated by native Kaliti humans, many different races call Seluca their home. As a port city, a variety of individuals can be found walking the city streets. A large number of the inhabitants have some tie to mercantile trade whether through production or distribution.
Due to it's somewhat isolated nature, Seluca has historically served as a refuge for those being persecuted. Most are welcome except those who have actively scorned the Annunaki Pantheon. While other faiths are tolerated to an extent, open practice is generally frowned upon. The Pantheon has a deep root within Seluca and her people. Those who seek to do business can find the Temple to be a great partner or an unmovable obstacle.
Due to it's somewhat isolated nature, Seluca has historically served as a refuge for those being persecuted. Most are welcome except those who have actively scorned the Annunaki Pantheon. While other faiths are tolerated to an extent, open practice is generally frowned upon. The Pantheon has a deep root within Seluca and her people. Those who seek to do business can find the Temple to be a great partner or an unmovable obstacle.
Government
The administration of Seluca has been inconsistent through the last fifty years. A merchant council once served the city for near a century but that time has since long passed. Eventually the city came under the sway of one warlord after another until the city became vulnerable to outside invasion. Seluca was under the control of a foreign tyrant until he was only recently overthrown by the people of the city.
Seluca is now governed as a sultanate, an ancient title which harks back to the early days of the city's history. Overall authority rests with the sitting sultan, even though that is not always the case in practice. There are various offices within the Sultanate such as finance, trade, religion. Each of these offices is governed by a minister, personally appointed by the sultan.
Governance of the city cannot be discussed without mention of the Temple. Their influence stands equal with the sultan. There is no industry or trade that they do not have some involvement in. Though it should be noted the Temple provides significant assistance to the people, either through education or alms. Seluca shall prosper as long as the two entities maintain a harmonious relationship.
Points of Interest
The Iron Dome - Temple of Annuk
The pride of the Seluca stands resplendent in the heart of the city. A large temple dedicated solely to Annuk, the primary patron of Seluca. A host of other temples can be found throughout the city but none can truly compare. It is here that the High Priest resides along with many other influential members of the clergy.
Many notable events are often held at the Dome from festivals to hosting foreign dignitaries. The temple itself once laden with fine metals and rare treasure but was pillaged during the reign of the oppressor.
Restoration of this great edifice is the will of the Selucan people.
Silk Row - The Bazaar
Starting near the east gate and running to the center of the city, an unbroken line of stalls and shops that represent the staple of Seluca. It is here were some of the finest silks on the continent can be found. Many separate alleys branch of this main avenue to create a labyrinth of mercantilism. Activity can always be found somewhere along the expansive street, even late at night.
Public order has decayed over the years and much money still flows through the row. Naive visitors may find themselves with lighter purses if they are not careful.
The Twins - Port of Seluca
Named in respect of the goddess Iasimu and her dual blades, the port remains ever busy. Those who seek to trade their wares can do so almost immediately after disembarking. The port was originally designed to accommodate the lighter, Kaliti ships. Over the years the area has been improved to deal with vessels of all kinds.
Palace of Embers - Home of the Administration
Located west of the Dome, the palace pales in comparison to the temple's splendor though similarly adorned. One might consider it the younger sibling of Annuk's edifice. A host of open courtyards provide space for discussions among the various administrative offices.
A large open-aired hall exists for the purpose of receiving the sultan's guests. Training grounds for the royal guards can be found not far from the hall.
The recent rebellion has seen the palace fall somewhat into a state of disrepair.
People of Interest
Administration
The Sultan - Rasoul Ibn Shahin
Spymaster - Zafir
Vizier - Sinuhe
Vizier - Zaki Qasim
The Temple
High Priest of Seluca - Nahib Akramun
Military
First Blade of Seluca - Katakura Ishi
Captain of the Guard - Khadja El Hashim
History
Centuries ago, Seluca was nothing more than a simple fishing village. Humble beginnings for humble people. Sailing became like second-nature and thus trade inevitably followed. The city slowly grew alongside their burgeoning textile and spice industry. Seluca was left mostly undisturbed by those of the continent as they sat on the other side of the Seret.
Small though they were, the city was not found wanting. Once led by a group of elders, it eventually came under the control of a merchant council. For many years this council served the best interests of the city, but avarice cannot be avoided. The most influential of the Councilors soon began to wonder why they should bother sharing power at all. Thus gave rise to tumultuous reign of the merchant warlords.
Years of infighting left the city weakened and eventually open to invasion. Thus Seluca came under the rule of a brutal tyrant. Oppression and corruption were hallmarks of his tenure, which was thankfully short-lived. Unrest turned to rebellion which culminated in an unceremonious death for the tyrant.
An ancient title has been granted to the new leader, and with it a heavy burden. Seluca and it's people must seek to rebuild as hungry eyes remain watchful.
Small though they were, the city was not found wanting. Once led by a group of elders, it eventually came under the control of a merchant council. For many years this council served the best interests of the city, but avarice cannot be avoided. The most influential of the Councilors soon began to wonder why they should bother sharing power at all. Thus gave rise to tumultuous reign of the merchant warlords.
Years of infighting left the city weakened and eventually open to invasion. Thus Seluca came under the rule of a brutal tyrant. Oppression and corruption were hallmarks of his tenure, which was thankfully short-lived. Unrest turned to rebellion which culminated in an unceremonious death for the tyrant.
An ancient title has been granted to the new leader, and with it a heavy burden. Seluca and it's people must seek to rebuild as hungry eyes remain watchful.
References
Slim PickingsFirst In, Last Out
Twin Troubles
Might Makes Rite
Picking Up the Pieces
The Curious Murder in Seluca