Halolis
Halolis is a large city, formerly the capital of Shasem, now known as a playground of vice. Where most cities would have rulers appointed or elected and held responsible by the government of the land around them, Halolis instead is divided and ruled by those who take power from others.
Currently, there are five major powers in Halolis- the Pirate Queen, Ismene, rules the shipping lanes and harbor district. The Bandit King, Leodes, has seized control of what was once the western end of town, demanding tribute from the farms and holding their produce ransom for favors. Amphion, a ruthless master of deceit has managed to take control of the merchant's district, turning his people loose to create brothels, casinos, and pit fighting rings. He rules only half of what had been his father's territory after his sister, Aria, took control of the other half. The final power is only spoken of in whisper and has no specific territory, but his influence is seen when bodies are found with a strange runic mark carved into their flesh. Some wouldn't count him as a city power, but others know the last time someone said that, they disappeared.
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