In a world full of infinite empires, expansive nations, and what seems to be limitless peoples and power. They fact that a single independent city would be listed among such powerful and expanded nations alone should speak volumes as to the majesty of the City of Dragon.
Dragon is great city of doubles. To a native Dragon is the Greatest City in the world. Most natives are born live and die within the great wall. Why would they not? The city has wide marble streets, teleport pads for instant travel, and saturated with magical technology that permeates even the most mundane of items and uses. It is home to Temple Square, a mile square area that has shrines and temples to every god in the known pantheon. Good and Evil gods are represented there as a symbol that people in Dragon are free to pursue whatever religion suits them without the heavy interference and control of a Genevan government for example. Nero's forum is a great collection of goods from all over the world and flooded with wealth a testament to the power of free trade in contrast to the government run economy of the empire which only favors nobility and the elite. Even with this wealth the people dress simply and handsomely not flashy and vain adorning themselves with jewels like the imperials. City guards dot the streets ensuring the safety of all. The city center holds the Bank of Dragon that is so safe that in its thousands of years it has never been robbed and considered to be the safest bank on the planet.
To an outsider Dragon can be a very rough town. While the outer districts of the city are beautiful and well maintained the inner city -- the old city -- is a hive for poverty and the worst of societies dreggs. That dark place is home to dens of thieves and cut throats. The Black Lotus is all powerful theives guild that many say run the city. The people of dragon do not carry wealth or dress well because they would be robbed in broad daylight under the eye of the bribed city guard losing all they wore if so. Their bank of Dragon is the only bank in the city because every other one has been robbed and corrupted beyond its ability to run. The freedom of trade with out restriction means no one makes sure the sellers obey the rules and do not cheat or manipulate or coarse their goods. Slave trade and gladiator games are good money and good profit but upset the sensibilities of any person with compassion in their heart.
Evil priest and monsters walk the streets here but the worst is the Frenchman. Always there to help, he offers to grant the wishes of any who asks if they are willing to trade, everyone has a price and he seems to know exactly what it is for everyone.
Dragon competes militarily economically and culturally against the Empire Geneva and company with the population of only a few million. They do this by aggressively defending their independence and freedom. Another example of duality. To an outsider this drive is paranoid, hostile and exhausting. For example they have declared any Genevan citizen coming to the city without invite is an immediate action of war and subject to brutal military counter strikes. To a native this drive and pride in the city is noble wise and brave. The imperialist pigs would destroy them if given the chance and it takes courage to stand up against the bigger and stronger aggressor.
Strength and Honor.
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