Palabran City
Palabran City is the capital of the Palabrani Empire. It is the largest city in Palabran and one of the largest cities in all of Southreach. Palabran City is itself a major power—the seat of one of the most powerful countries on earth. Nobles from all over Southreach travel to Palabran to petition the Red Empress , who lives in the illustrious Palm Branch Court at the center of the Imperial Ward.
Demographics
According to the most recent census, Palabran City has a total population of roughly 960,000, of which about 820,000 live within the city proper. About 40% of the human population is ethnically Palabrani, with large Ajardu, Chalzine, Hargellish, and Nadeshi enclaves that account for about 10% of the population each. Even smaller enclaves of Mandraganians, Ocustrines, and Viscalis make up most of the remaining 20% of the human population.
Spirits also make up a large chunk of Palabran’s population, though they are not all accounted for in census records. Colorful mayura, hulking ogres, and squat piskans are all common sights on the streets of Palabran, and a number of high dragons also call the city home—albeit in human guises.
Government
The Red Empress herself technically has direct authority over the law in Palabran City, but because she has a broader empire to run, the rarely exercises this authority. Instead, the responsibility of governing Palabran’s capital generally falls to members of her court. A host of magisterial positions have arisen to manage the development and security of the city, including one for each of the city’s 9 wards.
Defences
Palabran has high landward walls that protect it from outside incursions, though nobody has managed a direct assault on the city in hundreds of years. Like most cities in the core of Palabran, Palabran City is protected by the Alavads, who are responsible for day-to-day matters of law enforcement in the city. Closer to the Imperial Ward, you might spot some soldiers wearing the crest of the Impravads, who are tasked with protecting the Red Empress and her family.
Architecture
Palabran is known for its impressive architecture. Walking down the streets of any of Palabran City, you will be greeted by innumerable splendors: the grand domes, the shadows of stone columns, the curves of imposing archways. The Basilica, in particular, is an architectural marvel: decorated by resplendent stained-glass displays and mosaics. Everything about Palabrani architecture is intended to inspire a sense of awe and wonder in the viewer, and Palabran City exemplifies Palabrani architecture.
Notable Locations
Palabran City is divided roughly ten wards. The wards are as follows:The Basilica Ward
The Basilica is the center of religious activity in the Palabrani Empire. A massive complex of ornate temples, the Basilica is one of the most beautiful places in all of Palabran. It is also the home of the Imperial Vicar, who controls the Basilica and is thus the primary religious figure in Palabran.The Colosseum Ward
The Colosseum Ward is the area surrounding the Imperial Palabrani Colosseum, where people from across the country can go to see gladiatorial matches, chariot races, and other sporting events and forms of entertainment. The Colosseum Ward also houses the entertainers that work in the Colosseum, and so is known as a colorful place full of interesting people.The Docks Ward
The Docks Ward is situated on Palabran Harbor, and is full of shipbuilding yards, warehouses, and trading companies. The stink of salt air, brine, and fish permeate this ward—and between the poor fishermen and rich traders who call it home, it is a place of great economic disparity.The East Ward
The East Ward is a middle and upper-class neighborhood to the east of Palabran. Its denizens are generally too uppity to live in the Docks Ward but not wealthy enough to live in the Imperial Ward. The East Ward is known for the Anatolian Baths, which compete directly with the Imperial Baths for money and influence.The Nadeshi Ward
The Nadeshi Ward is a primarily Nadeshi neighborhood located outside the walls. It is one of the poorer neighborhoods in Palabran, but it is rich in culture and personality. For those interested in Nadeshi culture and cuisine, there is no place outside Nadesh itself that represents it better.The River Ward
Located along the banks of the — river, the River Ward is home to a number of sailors and fishermen. Unlike the Docks Ward, however, the River Ward is decidedly lower class. There aren’t many traders willing to settle along the river, so most of its denizens are fairly poor—yet the area remains rich in culture and boasts come of the best, least expensive food stalls in the city.The Trades Ward
The Trades Ward, nestled to the east of the Palabrani hills, is the center of economic activity in Palabran. It is home to Palm Square, the Bull Market, and the Court of Swords. Other popular establishments in the Trades Ward include the Wheel Gambling House, Parth’s Fine Imports, and Belu’s Bizarre Concoctions.The Outer Ward
The Outer Ward consists of all of the territories controlled by Palabran City that are outside of its walls and not in the Ajardu or Nadeshi wards. It is mostly made up of rolling hills, dotted by glimmering rice terraces and run-down shacks. It is also, however, the location of Palabran City's skyport—an island of wealth and excess amidst a sea of poverty.Palabran City
Alternative Name(s)
The City of Palms
Type
Capital
Population
960,000
Included Locations
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
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