Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira

The City of New Gods

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Kathira University of Thaumaturgical Arts

The Wapenzi

The Il'iyo Shambuliwa

Buibui Kuota

the Wachengali

City Guide: Districts & Sites

Chuo Kikuu District is the intellectual, political, and administrative center of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira. The district is home to the city's prestigious university, where students study subjects such as thaumaturgy, history, and the arts. The Maktaba, a central building located on university grounds, is where the council meets and the demigod leaders, Wapenzi, reside. The district is characterized by its beautiful gardens, libraries, and lecture halls.

The Almawtaa District is a lively area that comes to life after the sun sets. Politically dominated by vampires, this district is famous for its vibrant nightlife, including bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The district is also home to several vampire-led organizations and societies, which contribute to the district's unique and somewhat mysterious atmosphere.

Hariri District is the center of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira's thriving textile industry. The district is renowned for its production of high-quality spider silk textiles, which are sought after for their strength, lightness, and beauty. Skilled weavers and dyers work tirelessly to create intricate patterns and designs, and their creations are exported throughout the region. Buibui wa Kuota, the half-man, half-spider god of merchants, is believed to watch over the district and its inhabitants.

Ghamarat District is a unique area that floods with the tides due to the impact of Sayarii's two moons. Historically, Ghamarat has been a poor neighborhood, with families building on top of the ruins of older flooded buildings or living in the second and third floors of buildings that still stand. Wooden walkways line the sides of the streets, and small boats are used to move about. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk on the streets and collect shellfish and urchins, which are celebrated dishes in the neighborhood restaurants.

In recent years, Ghamarat has experienced a demographic shift as artists, craftsmen, and musicians seeking lower-cost housing and facilities have been gentrifying the neighborhood. This influx of the creative class has attracted money and attention to the area, resulting in rising popularity and new, successful residents and businesses. Two well-known Mwandishi Houses have set up Manyoya distillation workshops in the district, and several renowned restaurants have opened, making Ghamarat a destination for many seeking entertainment in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira.

Ghamarat is also home to the famous Temple of the Sea, which provides the only entrances to the unique catacombs that flood with tidal water mixed with hot hydrothermal spring water when the tide is in. The Northern Temple is opened by devotees during the very low tidal phase that occurs once every three days for about two and a half hours, while the Southern Temple and entrance are only opened for special religious events, and visitors are not generally allowed to visit this entrance.

The Ma'jan District is a densely populated area known for its vibrant street markets. The largest street market in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira is located here, drawing visitors from across the city and beyond. The district is also home to a diverse range of artisans, merchants, and performers who contribute to the energetic atmosphere.

Alzaba District is a bustling business and entertainment district. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, catering to the diverse tastes of its residents and visitors. The district is a hub of activity both day and night, with a constant stream of people and events.

These districts are primarily residential areas, housing the city's growing population. Both districts have a mix of housing options, ranging from small, modest dwellings to larger, more luxurious homes. The districts are divided by a central park and public square, which serves as a gathering place for residents.

Sehemu ya Chini, colloquially known as “the Flats,” is a bustling working-class neighborhood near the city’s busy harbor. This district is home to many Corsairs and dock workers, characterized by its modest, weather-beaten homes, small workshops, and utilitarian warehouses.

This bustling district is the city's commercial heart. Located adjacent to the Wilaya Docks - the largest shipping and transport hub in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, the streets are lined with shops, stalls, and markets selling everything from fresh produce to fine silks. The district's central bazaar is particularly famous, drawing traders and merchants from far and wide to hawk their wares.

Located in the central north section of the city, Wilaya ya Msitu District is a mixed residential, entertainment, and business area known for its upper-end restaurants and wineries. The district attracts residents and visitors alike who come to enjoy the fine dining options and the wide selection of locally produced wines. The district is also home to a variety of businesses and residential areas that cater to the needs of its diverse population

The city's religious and cultural center, Wasat District is home to numerous temples, shrines, and places of worship dedicated to the various gods and demigods that are revered in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira. The district also hosts a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, drawing visitors from across the city to participate in the festivities.

As its name suggests, Maji Vunjika District is a watery, marshy area prone to flooding. Despite this, the district's residents have adapted to their environment, constructing stilted homes and buildings above the water. The district is known for its unique cuisine, which incorporates many aquatic plants and animals found in the surrounding marshes.

Amelaaniwa: This district is feared for its reputation as cursed and inhabited by Djinn, with strange phenomena deterring most from venturing in after dark. Despite this, Amelaaniwa hosts a thriving surface-level market known as "Sokonyaka" or the night market. Though primarily legitimate, it has deep ties to the Chini Kabisa (the Underneath), where more illicit trade thrives. Amelaaniwa is likely the home of Tattoo and his gang of enforcers, Ngumi (the Fist), who exert significant influence both above and below ground.

Kisiwa Kahawa Island is connected to Alzaba District by a narrow land bridge and serves as the import and distribution center for the coffee and spice trade. Though no coffee or spices are grown on the island, it plays a crucial role in the transportation and distribution of coffee beans and bulk spices from various regions to the markets of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira and beyond. The island is also home to a thriving community of traders and merchants who specialize in the coffee and spice business.

Chini Kabisa is an extensive subterranean network of tunnels and chambers beneath Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira. This unofficial district is home to more than half of the city's population, who live and work in the dimly lit underground spaces. Many inhabitants of Chini Kabisa are involved in the city's black market, controlled by the god Tattoo and his followers, the Ngumi. The Underneath is also home to various underground societies, hidden temples, and secret chambers.

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira - Maps

City Map | District Map | Annotated Map

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira

Geographical Majesty Reimagined

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, the City of New Gods, is a masterpiece of both human tenacity and natural wonder. Set upon the Mchanga Hasira coast and cradled by the steaming waters of the Guba ka Maji Moto bay, the city basks under a fierce sun, yet it flourishes in a balance with its environment found nowhere else.

The hydrothermal bay, fed by the ceaseless energy and waters of the Bonde ka Roho za Mvuke, is not merely a feature of the landscape but the lifeblood of the city, pulsating through its core and bestowing upon it the gifts of warmth and mineral-rich waters. These waters, turned from adversity to prosperity, have shaped the city's culture and economy, fueling industries and nourishing agriculture that sustains the city’s heartbeat.

The city’s geography is a testament to its resilience, strategically positioned near the 45th parallel, where the climate defies expectation, teeming with lush wetlands that serve as both natural bounty and agricultural haven the city isn’t just hot, it’s humid, almost damp, year round. The map of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira reveals a mosaic of districts, each with its own distinct charm, from the verdant University District to the resourceful Ghamarat, where the tides of innovation turn the flooded streets into channels of culinary delight.

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira: A Cultural Introduction

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira is a city that defies the desolation of the Bara Kusini, emerging from the desert sands like an intricate mirage wrought from the earth itself. The sun's fierce light bathes the city in a golden hue, while the scent of brine mingles with the mineral tang of the hydrothermal springs that sustain it from deep below.

While the surface of the city is vibrant under the scorching light of the sun, with brilliant textiles and well-lit streets displaying a bustling metropolis, Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira is primarily a subterranean city. The city sprawls horizontally across the land and descends vertically into the great sandstone and limestone formations. The architecture blends ancient stonework with organic growth. Buildings are carved directly from the rock, interconnected by a labyrinth of tunnels and winding stairways. Streets above form a vibrant tapestry of shadows and light, where bustling markets spill into sun-dappled courtyards and narrow alleys echo with the ceaseless murmur of trade and conversation.

Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira's lifeblood flows from deep hydrothermal wells, providing fresh, mineral-rich water that courses through a network of channels and aqueducts. These waters fill the bay, defying the encroaching sea with their purity. Life here is a study in contrasts: the surface buzzes with activity, while beneath lies a hidden world of Zisima neighborhoods, great atrium-like shafts carved into the rock that house entire communities. These chimney-like structures descend into the earth, accessible by winding staircases, some deep enough that their bottoms are filled with water that rises and falls with the tides from the bay, a complex dance of land and sea.

The city teems with life, its population density intense. Dark, narrow neighborhoods bristle with energy, fostering a rich underworld where black markets and organized crime thrive, lurking in the shadows of the city's official structures. Despite its population of 1.25 million, Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira remains a city of secrets, with mysteries hidden in its depths.

Technological advancement is eyed with suspicion, limiting the development of many machines despite the knowledge to create them. This wariness is rooted in a historical mistrust, as the Great Fall stripped the people of Sayarii of civilization and magic, and technology, and magic, both, are considered the reason the gods punished the peoples of Sayarii - Sins both, though magic, in the form of Manyoya Thaumaturgy, a "gift given to the world by the Wapenzi" is considered generally acceptable, with it's divine origin.

Hydrothermal features permeate the city, with hot springs and waterfalls cascading through the walls of the carved Zisima. The tunnels and Zisima are humid, often wet places, where creeks run along passages, contributing to a vast natural and carved sewer system. These effluvial channels manage both water and waste, sometimes doubling as hidden pathways. The lower tunnels are tidal, filling with water from the bay as tides rise and emptying as tides fall, a rhythmic ebb and flow that shapes life in the subterranean parts of the city.

The city's cultural fabric is woven with threads of superstition and faith. Djinn are believed to haunt the narrow alleys and crowded market filled tunnels, and fledgling gods, less powerful than the ancient deities but influential nonetheless, subtly influence the lives of the inhabitants. Rituals and festivals punctuate the calendar, vibrant explosions of color and sound that bind the community in celebration and reverence.

The Wapenzi are supported by an order of spiritual and political followers known as the Il'iyo Shambuliwa. These individuals act as envoys for the pair, wielding significant power and influence both within and beyond the city. The Il'iyo Shambuliwa, envoys of the Wapenzi, are grotesque figures of reverence and dread. Their bodies, once human, have been transformed into vessels for the Wapenzi's influence. Eyes and organs replaced by waxen hives, their skin marred with honeycomb patterns, they embody the living presence of their hive-mind deities. These envoys, with their buzzing entourage of bees, wander the city as extensions of the Wapenzi's will. Their appearance inspires fear, their presence a constant reminder of the omnipresent demi-gods they serve. Revered in some quarters, reviled in others, particularly in Almawtaa and Hariri, they are seen as both divine messengers and loathsome spies. In the University District, their influence is strongest, where they enforce the Wapenzi's decrees and speak with the authority of the divine leaders themselves. Each Il'iyo Shambuliwa is a living testament to the Wapenzi's dominion however benevolent, their bodies a grotesque blend of man and hive, their minds shared with the all-encompassing consciousness of their insect-god masters. To encounter one is to glimpse the true power that underpins Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, a city where the divine and the mundane are inextricably entwined.

Governance is as diverse as the populace. The Kathira University of Thaumaturgical Arts stands as a beacon of knowledge and power, home to the City Council and the Hives of the Wapenzi. This council, a mix of elected leaders and hereditary rulers, reflects the city's complex social hierarchy. Each district, from the affluent heights of Wilaya ya Msitu to the shadowy depths of Chini Kabisa, has its own character and governance, with leaders ranging from humans to powerful non-humans like the spider-god Buibui wa Kuota, who oversees Hariri.

In Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, every shadowed alley, tunnel, and sunlit square tells a story. The air is thick with the promise of secrets waiting to be uncovered, the weight of history pressing down on the present. It's a city where the past and future collide, where every step can lead to discovery or danger, and where the line between the mundane and the magical is as thin as the whispers that fill its streets.

Districts & City Council Leadership:

Chuo Kikuu - The University District

Chuo Kikuu is the intellectual heart of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, where science, mysticism, and ancient traditions converge. The district’s architecture harmoniously blends rock-cut structures with grand surface buildings, all constructed from stone excavated during the creation of the city’s extensive Zisima—underground cisterns and tunnels that sustain the city. These Zisima form not only the backbone of the city’s infrastructure but also the foundation upon which Chuo Kikuu itself is built.

tychodreq_A_grand_university_campus_full_of_gardens__in_an_anci_57ceb151-9304-4398-bea2-d060cc008f84.png The university campus is a marvel of design, featuring expansive gardens, serene courtyards, and intricately detailed buildings. Grand domes and finely carved facades dominate the landscape, each a testament to the district’s commitment to learning and exploration. Lush greenery, fountains, and shaded walkways create an atmosphere of tranquility amidst the rigorous pursuit of knowledge. The air is filled with the mingling scents of blooming flowers and aged parchment, defining the district's unique ambiance. Within the grand halls and libraries, scholars and students immerse themselves in deep study, illuminated by light filtering through stained glass windows that cast vibrant patterns across the stone floors.

The district thrives on its academic culture, with coffeehouses, student housing, bookstores, and libraries lining its cobbled streets. Thaumaturgical supply shops offer specialized materials for the district’s scientific pursuits, where scholars delve into Thaumaturgy, studying magical creatures and methods of extracting and harnessing their aetherical properties.

At the heart of Chuo Kikuu are the great domes housing the Wapenzi, sentient honeybee hives revered as living repositories of knowledge. Their presence underscores the district’s role as the guardian of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira's cultural and intellectual heritage. The district is a bustling hub of activity, where the pursuit of knowledge is both a privilege and a sacred duty.

In addition to being an academic powerhouse, Chuo Kikuu also serves as the political center of the city, housing the city council and the various branches of city leadership. This dual role makes Chuo Kikuu not only a cradle of ideas but also a place where the future of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira is shaped and decided.

Chuo Kikuu District Leaders and Council Chair: The Wapenzi

See: The Wapenzi
Related: Kathira University of Thaumaturgical Arts

Background: Two enormous sentient honeybee hives residing in the university's domes. They wield significant intellectual and environmental influence on the council.
Bio: The Wapenzi are two sentient honeybee hives that inhabit the great domes of the Chuo Kikuu (University District). These ancient beings have a unique bond with the scholars and intellectuals of the district, influencing decisions through their collective wisdom. The Wapenzi are revered not only for their role in the natural environment but also for their intellectual contributions to the city. Their ultimate veto power on the council has sparked controversy, particularly from the Night District. The Wapenzi are seen as guardians of knowledge and the environment, and their influence extends far beyond the university.

Almawtaa "The Night District"

Almawtaa is a district that truly comes alive after the sun sets, known for its vibrant nightlife and the political influence of its vampire population. The streets of Almawtaa are often shaded by canvas awnings, casting the district in perpetual twilight, a feature that caters to its nocturnal inhabitants. This unique ambiance fosters a lively scene of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, drawing visitors who seek the excitement of the night.

The district is less lush than other parts of Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira, with fewer flowers and greenery—a subtle affront to the Wapenzi and their ever-watchful honeybees. Despite its vibrant surface, Almawtaa holds a reputation for its darker side, especially in the lower levels of the district known as Chini Kabisa. Here, alongside popular nightspots, one finds the infamous Feeder Bars, establishments that cater to the district's large vampire population. These bars offer free or inexpensive drinks to entice non-vampire patrons, who may willingly offer their blood in exchange for payment or a night of revelry. The legality of these establishments varies, from those operating openly to those that cater to more taboo appetites, teetering on the edge of the law.

Architecturally, Almawtaa is a district of contrasts. The narrow, shaded streets and Zisima reflect the accumulated wealth of its vampire residents, who have lived long lives and amassed considerable fortunes. The district is both feared and revered, its influence palpable in the city's political landscape. Though some conservative members of the community disdain Almawtaa, its wealth and the power of its elder vampires ensure that protests remain minimal, often suppressed by an undercurrent of fear.

Almawtaa District Leader: The Wachengali

See: the Wachengali

Background: An ancient, fiercely intelligent vampire with great political power. He opposes the Wapenzi's ultimate veto vote and has deep influence within the city.
Bio: Wachengali is the ancient and enigmatic leader of the Almawtaa (Night District). As a vampire of unknown age, he exudes a powerful and intimidating presence, with a mind as sharp as his fangs. Wachengali’s influence is deeply entrenched in the city’s politics, and his opposition to the Wapenzi’s veto power marks him as a key figure in the council’s power struggles. Fiercely intelligent and politically astute, Wachengali navigates the city’s treacherous waters with calculated precision, making him one of the most feared and respected leaders in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira.

Hariri - The Textile District

Hariri is the vibrant heart of Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira’s textile industry, where the air hums with the sound of looms and the scent of dyed fabrics. The district is renowned for its production of Kathira’an silk, harvested from millions of spiders that live in vast colonies within the district’s towering Mbingu. These four-sided structures, made of stone and wood, rise high above the cityscape, their open faces allowing wind to pass through, supporting the delicate webs spun by the spiders.

The spiders are remarkable not only for their silk but also for their communal nature, allowing them to capture and consume larger prey. The Mbingu are designed to maximize this capability, with insects, birds, and bats caught in their vast webs. To ensure the spiders’ health and productivity, their diet is supplemented by their caregivers—known as Wangalizi—who provide goats and chickens, placed into the base of the towers to feed the colonies. This careful management ensures the continuous production of silk that drapes the towers and fills the intricate frames inside.

The streets of Hariri are lined with workshops, open-air markets, and artisan studios, contributing to the district’s reputation as a hub of fine craftsmanship. The district’s architecture, while practical for weaving and dyeing, is adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant murals, reflecting the artistic spirit of Hariri.

At the center of Hariri’s success is Buibui wa Kuota, a mysterious and influential figure, rumored to be a spider deity in humanoid form. Under his guidance, the district’s weavers and artisans produce some of the finest textiles in Sayarii, with offerings of silk and rare dyes made in his honor. Buibui wa Kuota’s influence extends beyond Hariri; he is a close ally of the Wapenzi and holds the prestigious title of “Mlinzi wa Mzinga” (Guardian of the Hive). This rare designation underscores the tight-knit relationship between the two district leaders and further strengthens Hariri’s political power within Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira.

The silks and fabrics produced in Hariri are renowned throughout Sayarii, unmatched in quality due to the district’s unique cultivation of spiders within the Mbingu towers. Attempts to replicate this silk production in other cities have failed, solidifying Hariri’s position as the exclusive source of Kathira’an silk. This exclusivity makes the district’s textiles highly sought after, with their export representing a significant contribution to Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira’s economy. The wealth generated by Hariri’s silk trade grants the district substantial political leverage within the city, making it a key player in the city’s governance and a crucial asset in its continued prosperity.

Hariri District Leader: Buibui Ku'ota

See: Buibui Ku'ota

Background: A tall, thin, and classically dressed humanoid figure, rumored to be a spider deity. Revered by the district's weavers, he is known for his shrewd bargaining and benevolence.
Bio: Buibui Ku'ota is the mysterious and respected leader of the Hariri (Textile District). This tall, thin humanoid figure, often seen in exquisitely fine clothing, is rumored to be the humanoid form of a spider deity, revered by the district’s weavers and storytellers. Though his true nature is shrouded in mystery, Buibui wa Kuota is known for his shrewd bargaining skills and benevolent leadership. He receives intricate offerings of silk and crafted spider figurines from his followers, and while few believe the rumors of his divine origins, his influence in the district is undeniable.

Ghamarat - The Flooded District

Ghamarat is a district defined by its ever-changing relationship with the tides of Sayarii’s two moons. Once a bustling neighborhood of narrow streets and two- to four-story buildings, it has transformed over the past century into a labyrinth of canals and submerged structures. The slow rise of the tides gradually filled the lower streets, turning Ghamarat into a semi-submerged district where water and land coexist in a delicate balance.

The buildings, once grounded in stone, now stand with their lower floors submerged, their upper stories connected by wooden walkways and bridges. These elevated paths wind through the district, connecting homes, shops, and businesses that have adapted to the unique environment. The district’s waterways are filled with shellfish and urchins, which thrive in the brackish waters and have become a celebrated delicacy in the local restaurants. Ghamarat is now known for its vibrant seafood markets and eateries, where the catch of the day is brought in directly from the canals.

Ghamarat has recently seen a wave of gentrification as artists, craftsmen, and musicians, drawn by the district’s low-cost housing and unique atmosphere, have moved in. This influx of creative individuals has breathed new life into the district, with art studios, galleries, and workshops springing up alongside the traditional markets and shops. The narrow canals, once purely functional, are now lined with vibrant flowers and greenery, turning Ghamarat into a haven of creativity and inspiration. The district’s blend of historic charm and modern innovation has attracted both locals and visitors who are enchanted by its picturesque scenery. The colorful displays of art and the lively atmosphere have made Ghamarat a destination for cultural exploration, where the old and new coexist in harmony, creating a unique and thriving community. This transformation has also spurred the growth of small businesses, from quaint cafes to boutique shops, adding to the district’s allure and further solidifying its reputation as a cultural hotspot in Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira.

At the heart of Ghamarat lies the Temple of Waters (Mihrab ul-Miyah / Hekalu la Maji), an ancient and revered site with two identical entrances located in the northern and southern parts of the district. The true temple lies below the surface, intertwined with the flooded remnants of the district’s Chini Kabisa. The temple’s submerged interior is a labyrinth of partially flooded corridors, where the mineral-rich waters have preserved the remains of those who sought solace in the sea. These preserved skeletal figures, encrusted with coral and adorned by offerings from visitors, stand as haunting statues throughout the temple.

The Temple of Waters is not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary where sailors, corsairs, and the deeply devout come to seek favor from the seas. The Northern Temple entrance is accessible during low tide, revealing the catacombs below for a brief period every three days, while the Southern Temple is reserved for special ceremonies, shrouded in mystery and religious significance.

Ghamarat is a district of contrasts—where the past is submerged beneath the waters, yet where new life and culture thrive above. It is a place where the tides have shaped not only the landscape but the lives and stories of those who call it home.

Ghamarat District Leader: Rashid Ghamiri

Background: A middle-aged artist, activist and entrepreneur who has played a pivotal role in transforming Ghamarat from a submerged slum into a thriving district.
Bio: Rashid Ghamiri is known for his visionary approach to revitalizing the district. A talented artist and successful innovator, he has blended creativity with entrepreneurship to spearhead the district’s gentrification. Rashid has been instrumental in attracting fellow artists, craftsmen, restauranteurs, and small business owners to Ghamarat, turning it into a vibrant cultural hub. His leadership is marked by a deep respect for the district’s history, as well as a commitment to its future as a center of innovation and artistic expression.

Ma'jan - The Market District

Ma’jan is a lively, bustling market district near the western beach of Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira, where residents and visitors alike come to shop for an array of goods at reasonable prices. While the majority of the market is legitimate, selling fresh produce, clothing, spices, and everyday items, a low-profile black market also thrives here, though it keeps a low profile to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Mwizi wa Dhahabu—known as the “Gold Thief”—nominally controls the district, though his grip on the area is weak. Behind the scenes, powerful figures like The Rat and Tattoo allow Mwizi to remain in power to avoid direct confrontation over Ma’jan. It is rumored that Mwizi wa Dhahabu pays both off to maintain his position, creating an uneasy balance of power.

The market itself is an eclectic mix of permanent shops and street stalls, many of which have existed for generations and are well-known throughout the city. The streets are alive with the sounds of haggling, the scent of spices, and the vibrant colors of goods displayed under awnings and tents. The district’s proximity to the beach allows goods from trade ships moored in the bay to flow easily into the market, with fish, coffee, fruit, grains, and spices among the most popular items.

The district is not just a hub for commerce but also a cultural center. During city festivals, Ma’jan transforms into a vibrant, celebratory space. The streets are decorated with banners and lanterns, and performers, musicians, and food vendors fill the district with life and energy. Huge crowds gather to celebrate, drink, and eat, making Ma’jan a vital part of Il-Wāāt ul’Ihāt Kathira’s social fabric.

Despite the occasional undercurrent of black market activity, Ma’jan remains one of the most accessible and beloved parts of the city—a place where commerce, culture, and community come together in a colorful, bustling tapestry of life.:

District Leader: Fadhili Baharia

Background: A former sailor and seasoned merchant who united the market guilds. Fadhili is a pragmatic leader, known for his negotiation skills and fair trade practices.
Bio: Fadhili is a seasoned merchant and former corsair, known for his deep connections with traders across the seas. He rose to power in Ma'jan by uniting the market guilds under a common banner, ensuring fair trade practices and protecting merchants from extortion. His experience on the seas gives him a pragmatic outlook, and he’s well-respected for his negotiation skills.

Alzaba

District Leader: Naima Al'Hashim

Background: A former academic turned political strategist. Naima uses her sharp intellect and network of informants to maintain control, running Alzaba like a chessboard.
Bio: Naima is a former academic turned political strategist. Alzaba is a district steeped in secrets and hidden knowledge, and Naima uses her sharp intellect and network of informants to maintain control. She runs Alzaba like a chessboard, always several steps ahead of her rivals. Her calm demeanor hides a ruthless streak when it comes to protecting her interests.

East & West Kitou

Leader: Jabari Ndume

Background: A former soldier with a strong moral compass. Jabari is dedicated to protecting the common people, earning the loyalty of East and West Kitou's residents.
Bio: Jabari is a former soldier who now oversees the bustling neighborhoods of East and West Kitou. Known for his unwavering sense of justice and protection of the common people, he has earned the loyalty of the district’s residents. Jabari uses his military background to maintain order, and his leadership is marked by a strong moral compass and dedication to his community.

Sehemu ya Chini

Colloquially known as “the Flats,” Sehemu ya Chini is a bustling working-class neighborhood at the north end of city’s busy harbor. This district is home to many corsairs and dock workers, characterized by its modest, weather-beaten homes, small workshops, and utilitarian warehouses.

The streets are lined with vibrant markets catering to the practical needs of its residents, offering fresh seafood, basic provisions, and essential tools. The atmosphere is lively yet gritty, with the constant sounds of ships being loaded and unloaded, the clatter of tools, and the animated conversations of workers.

Local taverns and inns provide a casual refuge for Corsairs and dock workers, serving hearty meals and strong drinks in a welcoming, down-to-earth setting. Despite its lower-income status, “the Flats” is marked by a strong sense of community and resilience, with its residents united by their shared experiences and their deep connection to the sea.

Leader: Hafsa Mrefu

Background: A tough and resilient leader who grew up on the streets of Sehemu ya Chini. Hafsa runs the district with a focus on survival and self-reliance, offering protection to contributors.
Bio: Hafsa grew up in the rough streets of Sehemu ya Chini, using her street smarts and resilience to climb the ranks. Now, as the leader, she runs the district with a focus on survival and self-reliance. Hafsa is known for her tough love approach, offering protection to those who contribute to the district's welfare and weeding out those who pose a threat to its stability.

Wilaya mwa Jiji - the Business District

Description

Leadership

Wilaya ya Msitu

District Leader: Faraji Mtopo

Background: A hunter and herbalist deeply connected to the natural world. Faraji advocates for environmental preservation and capitalizes on the district's unique resources.
Bio: Faraji is a hunter and herbalist once deeply connected to the natural world. As the leader of the forested district of Wilaya ya Msitu, he combines traditional wisdom with modern tactics to protect the district’s resources. Faraji is known for his environmental advocacy, ensuring that the district’s unique flora and fauna are preserved while also capitalizing on the medicinal plants that grow there.

Wasat

Leader: Amani Kiongozi

Background: A charismatic business leader known for his mediation skills and inclusive leadership. Amani focuses on fostering cooperation and long-term prosperity in Wasat.
Bio: Amani is a charismatic business leader with a strong sense of civic duty. Under his leadership, Wasat has become a hub of commerce and diplomacy. Amani is known for his ability to mediate disputes and foster cooperation between different factions within the district. His leadership style is inclusive and focused on long-term prosperity.

Maji Vunjika

District Leader: Nuru Bahari

Background: A former engineer who tackles the district’s infrastructure issues with innovative solutions. Nuru is practical, focusing on problem-solving and ensuring safety.
Bio: Nuru is a former engineer who has taken on the challenge of leading Maji Vunjika, a district plagued by flooding and infrastructure issues. Her expertise in engineering has allowed her to spearhead innovative solutions to the district’s problems, earning her the respect of her constituents. Nuru is a practical leader, focused on problem-solving and ensuring the safety of her district.

Kilele Mlima

District Leader: Mtemi Jua

Background: A mountain guide and explorer who controls access to the district’s resources. Mtemi is a respected leader who values tradition and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Bio: Mtemi is a mountain guide and explorer who has taken on the role of leading Kilele Mlima. Known for his deep knowledge of the mountain terrain and its hidden paths, Mtemi uses his expertise to control access to the district’s resources and maintain its independence. He is a respected leader who values tradition and the preservation of the district’s cultural heritage.

Amelaaniwa

Description

Leadership

Kisiwa Kahawa:

Description

Custodian of Trade: Mlinzi wa Kanaee

Title: Custodian of Trade
Background: Mlinzi wa Kahawa is the appointed Custodian of Trade on Kisiwa Kahawa Island, a position granted by the city council. Despite not being a council member, Mlinzi wields significant political power due to their control over the island’s lucrative coffee and spice trade, which is crucial to the city-state's economy. Known for their diplomatic finesse and sharp business acumen, Mlinzi manages the island’s tax haven and duty-free market, ensuring that all transactions benefit the city while maintaining Kisiwa Kahawa's autonomy.

Mlinzi's strategic alliances with both local and foreign traders make them a key player in Il-Wāāt ul'Ihāt Kathira's politics. Their ability to balance the interests of the council with those of the island’s merchants has earned them respect and, at times, fear. Mlinzi is known for their impeccable reputation and the careful manag ement of the delicate balance of power between the island and the mainland.

Nia Chui

Title: Assistant to the Custodian of Trade
Background: Nia Chui is the ambitious and conniving assistant to Mlinzi wa Kahawa. Known for her sycophantic behavior, she constantly flatters Mlinzi while secretly scheming to advance her own position. Nia is highly intelligent and manipulative, always looking for ways to undermine rivals and secure more power for both herself and Mlinzi. Her strategies often involve subtle backstabbing, making her a dangerous ally and a formidable foe. Despite her duplicity, she is indispensable to Mlinzi for her keen insights and political maneuvering.

Chini Kabisa (The Underneath) - Crime Bosses:

Mchoro ya Uovu ("Tattoo") - 27% Control:

Districts: Amelaaniwa, Sehemu ya Chini, Kilele Mlima
Background: A crime boss who is a literal tattoo, controlling his enforcers through fear and brutality.
Bio: Mchoro ya Uovu, known as "Tattoo," is a crime boss unlike any other. A literal tattoo that inhabits the skin of enslaved servants, he exercises his control with a blend of psychological manipulation and brutal force. His enforcers, known as the Fist, are feared throughout Chini Kabisa for their maliciousness and extensive tattooing. Tattoo’s dominance over his territories is absolute, and his methods are as cruel as they are effective, making him one of the most powerful figures in the city’s underworld.

Mchunga Panya ("The Rat") - 23% Control:

Districts: Ghamarat, Almawtaa, East & West Kitou
Background: A benevolent leader with an army of rats, protecting and serving the neighborhoods under his influence.
Bio: Mchunga Panya, or "The Rat," is a benevolent crime lord with a strong sense of justice, operating more as a protector than a tyrant in the areas he controls. Known for his vast army of rats, which serve as his eyes, ears, and even his hands, Panya is beloved by the communities under his influence. He is seen as a Robin Hood figure, redistributing wealth and resources to those in need while fiercely opposing oppressive forces. His influence extends beyond Chini Kabisa, particularly in Kisiwa Kahawa.

Mwizi wa Dhahabu ("Gold Thief") - 18% Control:

Districts: Ma'jan, Wasat
Background: A cunning smuggler and fence, controlling the trade of stolen goods and rare artifacts.
Bio Mwizi wa Dhahabu, the "Gold Thief," is a master smuggler and fence, thriving on the trade of stolen goods, precious metals, and rare artifacts. Cunning and resourceful, Dhahabu has built an extensive network that ensures nothing of value moves in the city without his knowledge. His ability to outmaneuver both rivals and law enforcement has made him a key player in the black market, where he operates with a level of sophistication that sets him apart from the more brutal crime bosses.

Timsah Mchoyo ("The Crocodile") - 17% Control:

Districts: Wilaya, Maji Vunjika
Background: A sharp gambling kingpin who runs underground casinos and controls debt collection.
Bio: Kamari Mchoyo, also known as "Gambler’s Grasp," is the kingpin of Chini Kabisa’s underground gambling empire. With a sharp mind for business and a keen sense of risk, Mchoyo has turned the district’s illicit casinos and gambling dens into a thriving enterprise. He controls debt collection and money laundering operations with ruthless efficiency, using people's weaknesses to his advantage. Despite his cutthroat methods, Mchoyo maintains a facade of charm and respectability, making him a dangerous yet polished player in the city's criminal underworld.

Mama Jicho ("Mother Eye") - 15% Control:

Districts: Alzaba, Wilaya ya Msitu
Background: A former brothel madam who now oversees prostitution rings and runs an extensive information network.
Bio: Mama Jicho, the "Mother Eye," is a former brothel madam who has risen to power through her extensive network of spies and informants. Now overseeing the district’s prostitution rings, Jicho is more than just a crime boss—she is a matriarch who controls the flow of information in Chini Kabisa. Her knowledge of the city’s secrets gives her power over even the most untouchable figures, and she is known to trade in favors and blackmail with a deft hand. Her reputation as a motherly yet formidable figure makes her both respected and feared in equal measure.

District Alliances:

Chuo Kikuu (University District) & Hariri (Textile District):
- Alliance: The Wapenzi and Buibui wa Kuota share a mutual respect for knowledge and tradition. The university provides Hariri with research and innovations in textile production, while Hariri offers its finest silk to the scholars and institutions of Chuo Kikuu.
Maji Vunjika & Sehemu ya Chini:
- Alliance: Nuru Bahari and Hafsa Mrefu have forged a practical alliance to tackle infrastructure challenges. Sehemu ya Chini relies on Nuru’s engineering expertise to prevent flooding and improve living conditions, while Nuru benefits from Hafsa’s protection and local influence.
Ma'jan (Market District) & Wasat:
- Alliance: Fadhili Baharia and Amani Kiongozi work together to strengthen the city’s economy. Fadhili ensures a steady flow of goods through the market, while Amani’s diplomatic skills help secure favorable trade deals and maintain commercial harmony.

District Rivalries:

Almawtaa (Night District) vs. Chuo Kikuu (University District):
- Rivalry: Wachengali’s opposition to the Wapenzi’s ultimate veto power creates tension between these districts. Wachengali views the Wapenzi’s influence as an overreach, while the Wapenzi see Wachengali as a dangerous force that must be kept in check.
Wilaya (Business Districts) vs. Kilele Mlima:
- Rivalry: Kamari Mchoyo and Mtemi Jua are at odds over control of the city’s financial resources. Kamari’s underground casinos siphon wealth that Mtemi believes should benefit the broader community, leading to a power struggle between their districts.
Alzaba vs. Amelaaniwa (Cursed District):
- Rivalry: Naima Al'Hashim and Mchoro ya Uovu have a deep-seated rivalry due to their conflicting methods. Naima’s strategic manipulation clashes with Mchoro’s brute force, creating an ongoing battle for influence over the city’s darker elements.
Wilaya ya Msitu & Hariri (Textile District):
- Rivalry: Faraji Msitu and Buibui wa Kuota have a complex relationship due to their differing views on environmental preservation. Faraji’s commitment to protecting natural resources often puts him at odds with Buibui’s silk production, which requires extensive use of the district’s flora.

Neutral Relations:

Kisiwa Kahawa Island:
- Neutral: Mlinzi wa Kahawa maintains a neutral stance, leveraging their position to mediate disputes and benefit from all sides without becoming entangled in direct conflicts.

Web of Alliances, Rivalries of the Crime Bosses:

Alliances:

Mchunga Panya & Wachengali
- Alliance: Mchunga Panya ("The Rat") and Wachengali of Almawtaa have formed an unlikely alliance. The Rat’s vast underground network provides Wachengali with information and resources, while Wachengali’s influence offers The Rat protection and a powerful ally against their mutual enemies.
Mchoro ya Uovu & Hariri (Textile District)
- Alliance: Despite his rivalry with Wachengali, Mchoro ya Uovu ("Tattoo") has found an ally in Buibui wa Kuota of the Hariri district. Buibui’s shrewd nature complements Tattoo’s brutal methods, allowing them to benefit from each other's strengths.
Mama Jicho & Alzaba
- Alliance: Mama Jicho’s information network is valuable to Naima Al'Hashim in Alzaba. Their collaboration strengthens both leaders' positions and helps them maintain control over their territories.

Rivalries:

Mchoro ya Uovu vs. Wachengali
- Rivalry: Mchoro ya Uovu ("Tattoo") and Wachengali are bitter enemies, constantly at odds over control of the underworld. Their rivalry is fueled by both personal animosity and their differing methods of leadership.
Mchunga Panya vs. Mchoro ya Uovu
- Rivalry: The Rat and Tattoo are also rivals, with their conflict primarily centered on control over Chini Kabisa. Their rivalry is intensified by The Rat’s alliance with Wachengali, whom Tattoo despises.
Mwizi wa Dhahabu vs. Mlinzi wa Kahawa
- Rivalry: The Gold Thief and Mlinzi wa Kahawa continue to clash over smuggling and trade routes, with both leaders striving to outmaneuver each other.