Zugbuk
Zugbuk is the untamed emerald heart of the Vaaskyr Empire, nestled in a lush and perilous jungle along a wide, serpent-like river that flows into the ocean. The city sits on stilted platforms and layered terraces, overgrown with thick foliage and pulsing with the sounds of beasts and drums. Unlike the draconic cities of the Empire, Zugbuk is populated mostly by orcs.
Though nominally loyal to the Vaaskyr Empire, Zugbuk’s people hold fiercely to their independence, having secured autonomy generations ago. The victory was so costly back then for the young Empire that a pact was made: Zugbuk and Shamak would govern themselves, supply troops and trade goods, and maintain imperial law—so long as they bowed to the Flame Eternal in ceremony if not in soul.
Though nominally loyal to the Vaaskyr Empire, Zugbuk’s people hold fiercely to their independence, having secured autonomy generations ago. The victory was so costly back then for the young Empire that a pact was made: Zugbuk and Shamak would govern themselves, supply troops and trade goods, and maintain imperial law—so long as they bowed to the Flame Eternal in ceremony if not in soul.
Government
The warchief governs Zugbuk through loud, combative debate, backed by physical dominance or clan alliances. The city sends one representative—usually the most silver-tongued or politically adept—to the Imperial Court, though this role is widely viewed as ceremonial.
Zugbuk’s autonomy is tolerated, but fragile. The current Vaaskyr sees the jungle clans as useful but unruly assets. Imperial agents and missionaries frequently push for greater “integration", while Zugbuk's shamans warn that too much compromise will sever their ancestral roots.
Zugbuk’s autonomy is tolerated, but fragile. The current Vaaskyr sees the jungle clans as useful but unruly assets. Imperial agents and missionaries frequently push for greater “integration", while Zugbuk's shamans warn that too much compromise will sever their ancestral roots.
Industry & Trade
Zugbuk is an important port city in the semi-autonomous region, supplying Shamak with goods and exotic items as well. It is also the source of some of the Empire's strongest wood, making it highly sought after.
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