Alzeiza

Alzeiza is a bustling, moderate-sized city that stands on a major trade route and is mainly constructed of granite. It is defended by an elite band of mercenaries, the Iron Vanguard, which helps keep crime rates low. The city's most noteworthy feature is its detailed murals.

The city is strongly religious, being the world's religious capital of the Raven Queen.

History
Alzeiza began as a religious community that grew into a town and ultimately a city over the generations. It was established in what was believed to be a holy site for the Raven Queen, Fate's Fells.

It is believed that Alzeiza was founded by settlers from the far east as "Al'Seiza," or "The Place of Kneeling."

Layout
The town is surrounded by walls which close at night. Guards are on duty on the walls including some Iron Vanguard. Beyond the walls on the outskirts of the town is where there are poor people and mostly beggars. Within the walls the city is divided between 3 districts which themselves are walled off.

Magnificent Ward
This ironically-named district is the lower-class section of Alzeiza.

Craftsman's District
This is the middle-class section of Alzeiza. Many professionals make a living here producing goods.

Noble's Farthing
This is the upper-class section of Alzeiza.

Politics
Alzeiza is governed by an elected Magistrate, Salvectus of the House of Guiscardus. It is home to 66 noble houses and two crime syndicates.

Economy
Alzeiza's trade-based economy is strong, but has been on the decline for some time. Its main trade good is fur, which has become increasingly unfashionable in recent years, and Galefridus - the main importer of Alzeizano fur - has been growing its own fur industry, relying less on foreign imports.

Still, the city's economy continues to be propped up by tourist money and its craftsmen.

Cathedral of Crows
Situated right in the center of the city stands the Cathedral of Crows. It is the tallest building in the whole city adorned with stained glass. It is the headquarters of the church devoted to the Raven Queen and houses dozens of priests including the Mors Mortalis.

The Citadel of Alzeiza
Off to the side of the city but still within the walls is the elegant castle of Alzeiza. The castle houses various nobles and people of high political importance including the Magistrate and the Vice Magistrate. Connected by a bridge to the castle is a tall tower which stands about 180 from the ground. It can be used as a lookout to see invading armies and a signal fire which can be lit as a call to arms. It also houses the Minister of Defense.