The absolute governing authority of the city. They control the Flaming Fist, the navy, and all public utilities.
The Power: They hold the keys to the cityβs treasury and its laws.
The Status: Untouchable by common law.
The hereditary elite who live in the palatial residences of Manorborn.
The Vibe: They treat anyone from the Lower or Outer city with βveiled contempt.β
The Protection: Served exclusively by The Watch, an elite guard dedicated to keeping the "rabble" away from the estates.
The city is policed by two distinct, often clashing forces:
The Watch: Polished, professional, and strictly Upper City. They enforce elite law.
The Flaming Fist: A brutal mercenary army controlling the Lower and Outer Cities. Known for βindiscriminate violenceβ and keeping order through fear.
The "unofficial" government of the streets.
The Guild: A massive criminal network controlling nearly all illicit activity, from smuggling to assassinations.
The Crews: Smaller Lower City gangs. While often criminal, they are sometimes the only ones protecting commoners from the Flaming Fist.
The largest population of the city, living outside the main walls in districts like Tumbledown and Little Calimshan.
The Current Crisis: This layer is currently exploding with Elturel Refugees who are barred from entering the city proper.
The Reality: No protection from The Watch, and only "rough justice" from the Fist.