Kanithal

"Cult of the Assassin God..."

Home to the mysterious and feared Cult of Khanali, a murderous organization dedicated to Khanali, an aspect (one of many) of Ryktuss (The Lord of Death). Khanali is the "Mistress of Assassins," one of Ryktuss' many faces, tailored to the liking of his beloved purveyors of death in the southron lands of Varuum.
Kanithal was established many years ago, before even the rise of the Varuum nation. It was initially settled by a consortium of desert nomads and merchants looking to establish a base for their operations. In this capacity, Kanithal never quite thrived, at least to the degree its inhabitants had hoped. However, not long after the first Grand Hassir established the nation of Varuum, it began to allow an influx of outsiders within its walls. The town soon found itself with a new breed of resident... Members of the various assassins guilds (both of the north, and some from the newly established Varuum) considered "too extreme" by their monetarily minded peers. These were assassins with a philosophy. A world view centered upon death in its many forms. One reverent to a lesser-know goddess, who was in fact an aspect of one amongst The Zenithal.
They were known as "The Sons of Khanali," though many women also filled their ranks (sometime they are referred to as "The Children" or "The Children of Khanali" instead).
It didn't take long before the dedicated, devout, and possibly mad followers of Khanali seized a major foothold in the town. Though not part of the ruling council in any formal manner, this new assassins "guild" became one of the most (if not the most) influential organizations in Khanithal. They brought in business and paid a high price for the honor of keeping a relatively low profile within the town's walls.
There are some jobs not even The Thornblack Assassins' Guild will take on. It is known to some that in these instances, they can seek out the men and women of Kanithal to provide a means to their ends. But at what cost? Throughout the years, nearly as many clients have died at the assassins' hands as their intended victims. It is said only the desperate seek out those loyal to Khanali.
For what the Goddess does not receive in coin, she takes in blood. And her price is always a moving target.

Demographics

80% human, 20% mixed other

Government

Kanithal is ruled by a Hassir named Talal Khair ed Din. He is advised by a small council of four, including his Vizier, the half-elven woman known as Aziza as Samil.

Defences

Kanithal is defended by a town watch, approximately 100 strong. It is protected from outside threats by a small, sell sword militia comprised of a more "sane" offshoot of the "Sons of Khanali" known simply as "The Protectors."

Industry & Trade

Food crops from the field, fish and seafood from the bay. These are provided by the common folk of the town. But many know of the insidious industry practiced just below its surface. And clients come from far and wide... as far as their desperation will take them.

Infrastructure

A trade town situated upon the banks of the Upper Zarna River, Kanithal benefits from its various wheel wells and water mills, along with its good irrigation for the various crops raised throughout and outside the town.

Guilds and Factions

Because of the town's reputation, many of Hariel's most prominent guilds give Kanithal a wide berth. The complete absence of The Thornblack Assassins' Guild is quite notable, and taken as a sign of disapproval by many.

Alternative Name(s)

Khanali Home

Type

Large town

Population

16,000

Inhabitant Demonym

Kanithali

Location under

Hariel Minuta

Owner/Ruler

The Grand Hassir of Varuum

Owning Organization

Varuum