High Market - Valtaska
Next to the Shimmer Castle and on the steeper western slopes of the mountains, the High Market is home to the richest nobles of the city, the lesser nobles, and some of the grandest businesses that the city has to offer. Those that are well-to-do, or need a higher form of service, will find themselves in the High Market for the bulk of their shopping and daily lives.
Though much of the district is focused more towards the wealthiest of the realm, many people still find themselves heading into the district to make use of some services that can only be found in this region. The Magirium Transport, the teleportation hub of Valtaska, can be found in the district, as well as the Visk Skyport, the international hub of the airships of Rimvalkast and beyond.
When in need of better clothing, exotic items, and specialized services, it is almost mandatory to first visit the High Market, as similar services in the city are always second hand or of inferior quality. Though a few basic services do exist within the district, often they are used exclusively by the wealthy that live in the region, as the price of these merchants is beyond necessary for most denizens of the city.
Security and Encounters
Though trivial and violent crime is rare in the district, numerous guards can be found patrolling the district to keep the peace. Mixed with the Valtaskee guards are private enforcers paid for by the patrons of the market. Most of these are professional servicemen who prefer a life outside the national ranks, but they are a step above the enforcers common lower down the mountain. Anyone travelling in the district can expect to see private guards outside every major establishment, and to pass wandering guards on each street. As always, Shimmer Wisps can be seen at appropriate stands.Potential Threats
To those that look like they belong in the district, they can expect very little to threaten them unless they frequent the transportation hubs of the district. If one dresses down and wanders for too long however, they can expect to be stopped by guards, private or royal, and questioned as to their purpose. Though being "shaken-down" is not particular common, it may happen to those that loiter too long near the private guards. A bribe will often keep them from harassing the foolish individual that stood near the area. Failure to comply may have them beaten and proper guards called to arrest the victim for trespassing. Staying in the transportation hubs for a while, especially the Skyports, can bring about the usual pick-pockets that are common to lower areas of the city. Scammers seeking to sell false tickets can also be seen just outside, attempting to fool the desperate attempting to leave the city quickly. Finally, as with any area with weary travelers, misunderstandings and fights are bound to happen over small misgivings. Event Ideas:- While pausing to ask for directions to a shop, one of the guards in a nearby shop attempts to extort the PC's
- As a party walks by a shop, they see a disheveled and stressed man offering a high-quality item to them if they buy it now for very cheap, but it seems too good to be true.
- At the Magirium, the party suddenly overhears frantic talks from the staff. They discover that an important dignitary was sent to the wrong place.
- While looking for a cheap ride, a captain offers his services, but his ship seems to be leaning heavily in one direction.
- Passing a nobles home, they are called to by a young mistress of the manse. She exclaims she needs their assistance but they must climb to her room for her if they are to help.
Services
All Mundane Services can be found somewhere within the High Market, though often at a higher price. Magical Services are not normally purchased in the High Market, but a few exist. Recreational Activities are rare and often private. Illicit Activities exist but are difficult to find. Transportation to other districts exist. The Skyport and Magirium Transportation exists within this district.Interesting Facts
- Despite the high amount of traffic the district gets, commercial recreation is kept to a minimum due to a residential cree.
- The Krovak Estate, directly across from the Magirium, is used as a monument for the city and kept in pristine shape.
- Borin "the Black Claw" Swindlefeet ran rampant through the district in the late 190's. It was said he'd cut nobles throats with his mage hand.
- When the trees start to turn, an atifical wind is created to blow the falling leaves into the air above everyone's heads. It's been described as "enchanting" to even the locals.
- Master Salx owns the Maimed Crown, a premier physical sports arena where competitors pay to participate under a strong illusion to hide their true identity. Only the wealthy are allowed.
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