Zahar - City
Zahar is the capital city of the desert nation of the same name, and by far its most populous settlement. Not merely a political capital, it is the center of all commerce, industry, religion, science, and culture in the sultanate.
Circles of Power
Zahar is roughly circular, with the sultan's palace occupying the center. Eight avenues radiate outward through concentric districts. The military headquarters of the Janissary Order are closest to the palace, followed a district of temples and religious institutes, and then the Royal Observatory of Zahar, the center of all magical learning. The streets beyond this are dominated by businesses - banks, guilds, shops, and marketplaces. The outermost rings are characterized by industry and, particularly since the rise of Rashad, by poverty and crime. What little of the resistance remains can also be found in this outer district. Partisans loyal to the late Kumar XIV still gather secretly in places like the Twisty Turban. Beyond the city gates, the land quickly gives way to the Eastern and Western Badlands. Many a thirsty traveler has been grateful to glimps Zahar's polished minarets rising over the horizon.Layers of History
The site of the city, located in the fertile delta of the River Tahrüq about one day's journey from the Calm Sea, has been continuously occupied since pharaonic times. Zahar was reknowned throughout the ancient world for its imposing splendor, with many magnificient palaces and temples erected to Sherazan, The Lion of Wisdom. After the Genie-Pharaoh Wars and the collapse of pharaonic civilization, the proud city fell to ruin. Straggling families sheltered beneath collapsed monuments, sewing crops in the crumbling amphitheater and watering their livestock in what was once the royal bath house. After the first sultans succeeded in uniting the scattered tribes, they selected Zahar as the capital of a new nation. Over dynasties, the city was rebuilt into the marvel it is today. Some say it is greater than the ancient capital ever was, while others dismiss it as the crude shadow of its extinct glory. And some ancient structures yet remain: beneath the modern plazas, one can still find catacombs carved out centuries ago by that ancient civilization. The Cult of Horak, obsessed with antique knowledge, has been known to make use of these tunnels to travel discretely through the city.
Type
Capital
Inhabitant Demonym
Zahari
Included Locations
Owner/Ruler
Comments