Sakash al Bashiit

Overview:

Sakash al Bashiit is the magnificent capital of Sokkashanna, a storied and resilient nation located on the continent of Schuttarch. Home to the proud Shannari people, the city stands as a glittering oasis in the desert, its golden domes and majestic spires rising high above the sand. The Shannari are known for their rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and unwavering resolve. However, the city is also marked by a deep hostility toward the Asiendalian Kingdom due to a long history of conflict and animosity.
Once a center of knowledge, trade, and art, Sakash al Bashiit has since become a symbol of defiance and resistance, hardened by its struggles against the powerful Asiendalian invaders.

Geography and Architecture:

Located amidst the vast deserts of Schuttarch, Sakash al Bashiit is an architectural wonder. The city’s layout reflects both the harsh conditions of the desert and the creativity of the Shannari people. Tall, intricately carved walls protect the city from the blistering desert winds, while lush gardens, fountains, and aqueducts bring life to the otherwise arid surroundings. These green spaces serve as oases within the city, places of rest and contemplation.
The city’s skyline is dominated by The Grand Ziggurat of Sakash, a monumental structure that serves both as a temple and a political hub. It symbolizes the spiritual and political power of the Shannari. Surrounding the ziggurat are dozens of palaces, minarets, and towers, each more beautiful than the last, adorned with precious gems and gold that reflect the blazing sun.
Throughout the city, bazaars and open markets overflow with vibrant goods, including exotic textiles, spices, and magical trinkets. Despite the lively atmosphere, an undercurrent of tension exists, as many Shannari remain wary of outsiders, particularly those from Asiendal.

The Shannari People:

The Shannari are a people defined by their elegance, honor, and fierce independence. Known for their rich traditions, they place great value on artistry, music, and intellectual pursuits. Their clothing is a symbol of their cultural pride, often consisting of flowing garments made of fine fabrics, with intricate designs that reflect their connection to the desert and their ancestors.
Shannari society is deeply hierarchical, and much of their daily life revolves around family honor, personal achievement, and maintaining their ancient traditions. Despite their internal strength, they have harbored a burning resentment toward the Asiendalian Kingdom, whom they see as invaders and oppressors.
Though their relationship with magic and mystical arts runs deep, their technological advancement has historically lagged behind that of other nations, such as Asiendal. This technological gap played a significant role in the devastating wars fought between the two nations.

History of Hostility with Asiendal:

For decades, the Shannari suffered under the relentless pressure of Asiendalian invasions. Though their magic and bravery were unmatched, the Shannari were technologically outclassed. The War of the Crimson Dunes saw the Shannari forces repeatedly overwhelmed by Asiendal’s superior military machinery and advanced weaponry.
However, despite their dominance, Asiendal did not fully conquer Sokkashanna. Their forces withdrew, not due to a stalemate, but because of a far greater threat that loomed over the entire continent of Aurien. The Asiendalian military was forced to redirect its attention to the rising Demon Threat, which posed an existential danger to both the Asiendalian Kingdom and its neighboring allies. This withdrawal allowed the Shannari to rebuild their nation, though the scars of war remain deeply embedded in their national psyche.
Today, the relationship between the Shannari and Asiendal is defined by mutual hostility. Although active warfare has ceased, the memory of the past, combined with the enduring tensions, continues to shape the interactions between the two nations.

Governance and Military:

Sakash al Bashiit is ruled by the Caliph, the highest political and religious authority in Sokkashanna. The Caliph’s decisions are guided by a council of Viziers, each representing a different pillar of society: governance, trade, magic, and war. Together, they ensure that the city remains stable and continues to prosper despite external threats.
The Sokkashanna Guard is the elite military force of the city, renowned for their skill in combat and their unbreakable loyalty to the Caliph. While the Shannari lack the technological advancements of the Asiendalians, they have adapted by perfecting their use of magic in warfare. The Shannari Battlemages are some of the finest in Schuttarch, specializing in desert combat and arcane defense.
In recent times, the city has focused on developing its magical capabilities, experimenting with Magitech as a means of countering Asiendal’s technological superiority. Though they still lag behind in industrial power, the Shannari are making significant strides in merging their magical heritage with the tools of war.

Cultural Significance:

Despite the hardships endured from centuries of conflict, Sakash al Bashiit remains a beacon of Shannari culture. The people take immense pride in their artistic achievements, which range from intricate tapestries and mosaics to grand architectural feats. The Festival of the Dawn, an annual celebration, showcases the artistic and magical talents of the Shannari, with grand performances of music, dance, and magical displays illuminating the streets.
Artisans of the city are known throughout Schuttarch for their delicate handiwork, creating beautifully detailed jewelry, clothing, and magical items. The city's craftsmen are especially famous for their enchanted weaponry, which is sold to allies of Sokkashanna and used by their own warriors.
Shannari scholars continue to study ancient texts and magical disciplines, preserving the deep knowledge of their ancestors. Libraries within the city hold tomes of forgotten lore, many of which predate the wars with Asiendal, offering insights into ancient magical practices and philosophy.

The Future:

As the Shannari seek to rebuild and strengthen their defenses, tensions with Asiendal continue to simmer. Both nations keep a watchful eye on one another, and while the threat of war is ever-present, so too is the potential for a new era of cooperation—however unlikely. Within the walls of Sakash al Bashiit, the people remain steadfast, focusing on restoring their nation's former glory while preparing for any future threats.
While many Shannari harbor deep-seated resentment toward Asiendal, some of the younger generation question whether another war is truly in the nation’s best interest. Yet, until the relationship between the two powers changes, Sakash al Bashiit will remain a city at the crossroads of magic, conflict, and culture.
In Conclusion, Sakash al Bashiit is not merely a city; it is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Shannari people. Though their relationship with Asiendal has been marked by war and devastation, the Shannari continue to stand proud, maintaining their traditions while preparing for an uncertain future.

Founding Date

66 884

Type

Large city

Population

200 - 300 Million

Location under

Great Sokkashi Desert

Owning Organization

The Caliphate of Sokkashanna