Il-Heban

Article by Rosalie

Il-Heban, a bustling desert metropolis nestled amidst dunes and barren land, is located in the drylands south of Brell and Torrica. Sun-baked clay buildings of a reddish-brown hue line its narrow streets. The city contains a rich mix of cultures and traditions, and is bubbling with life. Atop a small hill within the city, the magnificent Sultan's palace, also known as the Clay Palace, stands looming over the city. With its unique, curved triangle shape and three towers, each graced with elegant minaret-style spirals, it looms over the city as a beautiful and well-fortified display of the Sultan's riches. The city is home to various markets, including the famous Il-Heban Souk, one of the largest markets of Kildar, with some of the richest fabrics, spices, and other rare items. It also houses a large notorious black market, called the Shadow Bazaar, for those searching for more exotic (or illegal) goods.

Locations:

Clay palace

Heart of the city and residence of the current Sultan and his family

Il-Heban Souk

Market with various spices, fabrics, and fresh produce. Famous and well visited from around Kildar.

Shadow Bazaar

Infamous black market with exotic goods (and illegal magic items)

The Samum Academy

School for wizards and other magic users.

The Labyrinth

Large slum-like area behind the Souk that is a dark labyrinth of alleyways, inhabited by minorities, outcasts, and thieves.

Sultan Shahin Hammam

Bath House located in the royal district, open to high society and lots of gossip.

Tavern ‘Oasis’

Small cosy tavern near the barracks, welcomes all kinds of people, a safe space in the city.

The Barracks

Home to the city guard and the city prefect.

Organizations

Desert Scorpions

A notorious gang of thieves and opportunists who exploit the city's residents for their own gain.

Wizards of the Samum Academy

Secret school that specializes in evocation and conjuration magic. In hiding ever since Sultan Shahin banned the use of all magic within the city.

Persons of interest

Sultan Shahin

Well known ruler of il-Heban, old man (human), wealthy and greedy.

City prefect Rashid Khan

High-ranking city official (human, male), responsible for law enforcement and city management.

Tibia Malik

Tiefling, owner of the tavern ‘Oasis’, well-liked in the community. She often hears the whispers and rumors that pass through her establishment.

Jade Stone

Spellcasting earth genasi, high-ranking member of the Desert Scorpions.