Helias, City of Silks

elias is a city of revolution, intrigue and the crafts. Many call this place the home of The Peddler as it harbours the best craftsmen in the continent and beyond.
Helias has a rich history and political climate - its shores mark the closest point in the Empire to The Federation nearby and much conflict has befallen the city.
Before and during Avlar's Conquest's, Helias belonged to the independent city-state known as Old Nissia. Ruled by the Sultans - slavers and ship lords - the city harboured all manner of ill folk and had much tension with the more peaceful Kingdom of Eá-galwen.
When Avlar knocked on the city's doors, it was not slavers he was greeted with, but a fresh congregation of the people of the city, following a violent revolution which was led by the various crafting guilds of the city. The newly formed Weavers & Spinners Union looked out upon the armies of the God-King conqueror and refused to surrender. From a mixture of the cruel the desert heat taking its toll on the besieging army and the dissapearance of Avlar before his Ascension, the city was never taken, and thus the 'Free City of Helias' was born anew under the rule of the people.
The newly formed rulers of Helias established a council comprised of each of the city's 36 guilds, who now preside over the various trades and policies across the city and the Nissien Coast. The Union is named such as it was the Weavers and the Spinners who led the revolution against the Sultans and ensured the city's independence.
The Guilds run a strict operation which favours profitability and the flow of cash above all, however it also favours entrepreneurial spirit and risky endeavours, making flourishing businesses very commonplace here. Only some of the Guild leaders are known, others choosing to keep their identities hidden from those outside their guild and the other guild leaders.
Sailors and craftsmen are the primary people who reside here, with fine silks, jewellery, spices and fruit passing through the city to the rest of the Empire. Goods from the Federation that flow through this city include rice, tea, porcelain and paper.
Helias prides itself as a place of indulgence and delights. Scarves, silks and robes of dazzling display are worn by all, with beer, wine, and food aplenty in all of its corners. There is a significant presence of prostitution as well, however they have no fewer rights than any other guild in the city.
Larsa Igigi heads the Weaver's Guild and is the most well-known politician in the city.