Arbetuyun

Arbetuyun is the second-largest city in Azziyada and facilitates much of the trade through the region; as such it connects cultures which would otherwise have no contact with each other. The city has four main areas, each built around a large well or reservoir fed by a natural spring: the Great Souq, al-Maribh (the wealthiest district), al-Mazuwar (which houses most visitors and temporary residents) and the Old Town (which houses many of the permanent residents and their businesses, as well as the very first House of the Burning Feather). There are also many smaller wells and springs, although not all of these can be used year-round. These districts originated as distinct settlements - with the souq originally kept outside of the walls of the original town - but have expanded over time to the point where they connect together. Within the district of al-Maribh can be found the Jawahrat Library, a renowned centre of learning.

Government

Arbetuyun is governed by a council of merchants: there are 29 seats on the council, and elections are held when a vacancy arises after a previous councilmember dies, moves away or is expelled from the council by the vote of at least 25 other councilmembers. Without expulsion for misconduct, the position is for life. The council is supported by a sizeable bureaucracy which handles the details of trade and taxes, including separate taxes for permanent residents, short-term visitors and those who own a residency in the city but are regularly absent from it.

Industry & Trade

Arbetuyun is notable for the extreme variety of items which are traded in the city: there is a common saying to the effect that, if you cannot find what you are looking for in the Great Souq of Arbetuyun, you just need to look harder. Particularly prominent are the trades in spices, precious stones and metals, jewellery, ivory, books, fine cloths, rugs, baskets, furniture and exotic animals. It is also common for individuals looking to travel, escape debt or learn a new craft to present themselves for hire in the market as potential mercenaries, indentured servants or apprentices, although it is not permitted for traders to sell other people in this way.

Type

City

Population

c.90,000