Cardiff - the city of chains

The society of Cardiff is deeply stratified, with a clear divide between the slavers and the enslaved. The culture is one of fear and oppression, where the weak are exploited, and strength is measured by one's ability to dominate others.   The Slavers: Comprising humans, dragonborn, and other races loyal to Grix'thoracine, the slavers are the ruling class. They live in relative luxury, their status maintained through violence and intimidation.   The Slaves: The majority population, consisting of various races forced into labor, servitude, or combat. Their lives are harsh and brutal, with little hope for freedom.   The Resistance: A clandestine group fighting against the oppression, made up of escaped slaves and sympathetic outsiders. They operate in secrecy, conducting sabotage missions and freeing slaves whenever possible.

The economy of Cardiff revolves entirely around the slave trade. The city’s markets are filled with buyers from distant lands, all seeking to purchase slaves for various purposes. Goods and services are often traded for slaves, and the currency used is heavily influenced by this grim commerce.   Slave Auctions: The primary economic activity, held daily in the Market Square. Slaves are bought and sold based on their physical and mental attributes, with prices varying according to demand.   Black Markets: While the official market deals primarily in slaves, numerous black markets exist where illicit goods, stolen items, and forbidden knowledge are traded.   Crafts and Services: A small sector of the economy is dedicated to crafting and services, with skilled slaves often forced into these roles. Artisans, blacksmiths, and healers work under harsh conditions to produce goods for the ruling class.

Cardiff is situated on the southern coast of Wales, with its natural harbor playing a crucial role in its prominence as a slave market. The city's layout is a stark contrast to its former self, with its districts divided and fortified to maintain control over the vast slave population.   The Iron Docks: The harbor area where slaves are brought in by ship, either captured in raids or sold by slavers. This district is heavily guarded, with fortified walls and watchtowers manned by Grix'thoracine’s enforcers.   The Pens: A sprawling, labyrinthine area where slaves are kept in deplorable conditions. The pens are segregated by the type of slave (laborers, gladiators, servants) and are overseen by brutal taskmasters.   The Market Square: The heart of the slave trade, where auctions are held daily. The square is surrounded by tall, imposing buildings that house various traders and the offices of the slaver guilds.   Grix'thoracine's Citadel: A heavily fortified structure that serves as the headquarters of Grix'thoracine and his inner circle. The citadel is a mix of mind flayer architecture and human construction, featuring dark, winding corridors and chambers for psionic experimentation.   The Resistance Quarters: A hidden network of tunnels and safe houses used by the resistance, a group of rebels and escaped slaves dedicated to overthrowing Grix'thoracine and dismantling the slave trade.

The Chains of Fate Tavern: A popular gathering place for slavers and mercenaries. The tavern is known for its shady deals and information exchange.   The Arena of Sorrow: A brutal gladiatorial arena where slaves are forced to fight for the amusement of the slavers. Victories here can sometimes lead to a slave’s temporary favor or even escape.   The Silent Cathedral: An abandoned church now used by the resistance as a secret meeting place. Its name comes from the vow of silence taken by those who enter, to protect their operations from being discovered