Sayacalco
Overview
Sayacalco is the largest and most prominent settlement on the island nation of Cosania, serving as its capital and cultural heart. Nestled in the towering cliffs, Sayacalco is a vibrant, tiered settlement that reflects the history and traditions of the Altaran people. The town is divided into two distinct districts: The Harbour District and The Cliffside Terrace. Each plays a vital role in the community's economy and culture. Governed by a council led by the island's Chieftain, Sayacalco is both a centre of trade and a reminder of Altaran heritage.
Geography
Cosania is best described as being a oval shaped island with a chunk missing out of its northwest part. The island itself is located in the south of the continent of Drassau. Sayacalco is situated on the west coast in that indent. Its climate is tropical, like most of Drassau.
The Harbour District
Stretching along the shortline, the Harbour District is the heart of Sayacalco's commerce. It is here that traders, shipbuilders, and seafarers converge, making it a bustling hub of activity. The docks can accommodate a range of vessels, and the shipyards in Sayacalco are regarded amongst the world's best.
The Cliffside Terrace
Rising above the Harbour District, the Cliffside Terrace is a multi-tiered district carved into the cliff face itself. Accessible via winding paths and steep staircases, the terrace is home to the town's artisans and craftspeople. It is also where the majority of the residences are in the settlement. Atop the Cliffside Terrace is where the town's civic buildings can be found. The Terrace can provide serene views of the ocean beyond, away from the hustle and bustle of the docks below.
Government
Chieftain
The head of Sayacalco, and Cosania as a whole, is the Chieftain. The Chieftain is the foremost elder of the Altaran community, and is always an Altaran, meaning the government is always headed by a member of Cosania's ancestral people. The current Chieftain is Makaio "Tidebinder" Akamohtavi.
Council
Sayacalco itself has a small council of six, with the Chieftain's as its head. The other fives roles are as follows: Trade & Commerce; Defence & Warfare; Law & Justice; Culture & Tradition; and Seas & Fisheries. Defence & Warfare is largely ceremonial, but has been relevant on a few occasions in Sayacalco's history. Their main purpose is to negiotiate alongside Trade & Commerce with other governments to provide ships or repair their fleets.
Law
Law and order in Sayacalco is maintained by the Cliffwardens, recognisable from their slate grey uniforms and stone-patterned cloaks.
Culture
Cosania is regarded as the ancestral home of the Altaran people. The island's cliffs, mountains and rugged landscapes are seen as sacred, reflecting the strength and endurance of its people. Sayacalco regularly holds festivals and rituals that honour the Altaran connection to the sea and their ancestors. The native artisans there are renowned for their skill in working with various materials and mediums, with their creations incorporating motifs inspired by the history. The fishing trade is Sayacalco's heritage, and their fishers are the world's best.
Economy
As the world's foremost fishers, naturally that formed the large part of their exports. However, with Sayacalco's growth came the increase in crafts, and Sayacalco's work is typically highly sought after too. As a town with a rich history of maritime traditions, they are also adept in ship building and repairs, and vessels seek out the town for this purpose.
With its tranquil views, and rising artisanal scene, tourism is on the rise in Sayacalco, and the journey up the terrace is well worth the effort for many.
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