Qudra
"The inhuman market..."
Qudra is one of the largest of the "free cities" of the Southron Lands in Hariel Minuta. It lies at the point where the Wyrm's Crest Mountains begin (to the north), and follows the Zarna river (named for the 1st city of the Southron Territories) lengthwise.
Qudra was not originally the "capital" city of the Freecities (as there is no official capital), but has since eclipsed Zarna in importance, if not population. Zarna is supposed to be the site of the gathering of city governors (at least on paper), thus the region's defacto "capital," however most of these meetings have occurred, as of late, in Qudra. In the minds of the people, Qudra is the true center of power in the deep south.
Qudra is known for two things, both notorious in nature. It houses both the largest slave market in all the West, as well as the most talented poison makers in possibly the entire world. Though slavery is outlawed in Hariel Majour, it is technically legal in the south of Hariel Minuta (though highly frowned upon in Varuum). Slaves tend to come from the minority humanoid races, such as orcs, half-orcs and goblinoids, but are not exclusive to them. Exotic slaves, even those dangerous in nature such as minor demons and devils, command extraordinarily high prices and are quite popular with the nobility of the region. Nothing shouts opulence more than an infernal man-servant.
In Qudra, the lower class lives in constant fear, as those who owe debts they cannot pay to the nobility often become slaves in order to pay off what they owe. However once one falls into indentured servitude, it is very difficult to get out.
Demographics
Qudra is a melting pot, similar to Varuum, but far less cosmopolitan. There is a much greater contrast between the poor of the city and the rich, with the former always in fear of falling behind on debts and becoming slaves themselves.
Government
A plutocracy ruled by a coalition of wealthy slave masters called "The Consortium" runs the city and also represents it in matters pertaining to the overall governance of the Free Cities. The most powerful amongst them is "Hassir" Saluk Beshar, a merchant prince turned black marketeer who likes to claim that he fully runs Qudra. His peers allow this, as his money is one of the primary things that keeps Qudra going, and the gangs he controls assist the Iron Breakers with the defense of the city. Hassir Beshar "rules" his people, and overlooks the market, from his black tower of Huz.
Defences
Qudra relies on a private army of sell-swords (900 strong), called the "Iron Breakers" (somewhat ironically, as slave chains are typically made of iron). Further, Hassir Beshar controls several local gangs, and he employs them to help protect his city when necessary.
Finally, the Hassir can muster a slave army at quick notice, comprised of around 800 warrior slaves from his "private stock."
Industry & Trade
Poisons, Slaves, as well as a bustling market catering to goods from all over the world.
Infrastructure
Qudra features many of the amenities found in other medium-sized cities with access to a fresh water source. Beyond these, it features a somewhat modern sewer system. But where the city really shines is with its markets, which are all organized with permanent, high quality stalls and booths that make the presentation of wares rather attractive. Beyond this, the slave market has the dubious distinction of being itself highly modern with its curved, erected stage and proscenium seating.
Qudra also features, adjacent to the open market, a gladiatorial-styled fighting arena, where many of the newly purchased slaves are pitted against each other for wagers. Often these forced battles include exotic and terrifying beasts as combatants, such as manticores and basilisks.
Assets
Trade goods from all over, particularly black market items such as poisons and slaves.
Guilds and Factions
Many of the most notorious factions and organizations have a chapter (or a headquarters) in Qudra. From the Thornblacks to the Zanzakkar Guild, along with several slaver rings like The Red Chain and The Merciful Keepers, there's never a shortage of criminal activities going on. And, it would seem, the city rulers (The Consortium) like it this way.
Architecture
The buildings, like many so close to the desert, are made primarily of sandstone, but with some wooden infrastructures. They tend to stand taller than most in the region, freeing up some of the city's surface area for its ample markets.
Geography
Located just south of the Wyrm's Crest mountains, and along the western bank of the Zarna River.
Natural Resources
As Qudra sits on one of the first viable flood plains south of the Wastes of Veric, it enjoys ample farmland. As such, farmers living in small towns ringing the city are able to produce a wide variety of foodstuffs for both the city and trade.
Alternative Name(s)
City of Slaves, The Poison Makers
Type
City
Population
22,000
Inhabitant Demonym
Qudrans
Location under
Owner/Ruler
Characters in Location
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