Driegzar

The City of Driegzar is the largest city and capital of the Karshan Empire, and the city of residence for the Karshan Reichgrav, Gregor Valdolem, Overlord of the Empire, whose Palace is the most impressive feature of the city. (A smaller Reichgrav Palace was previously located in the port of Zhanda to the north.) Driegzar is a major seaport and one of the largest centers of trade on the eastern end of the Midrun Sea, second only to Telaphra. The city of Driegzar is also home to the Presidium, the seat of the Karshan Ascendancy, which safeguards the realm and its way of life.
Over the years, the city has been ruled by various nations and peoples. It is built upon the ruins of older foundations, most notably the ancient Duergun seaport of Darag, whose history is shrouded in myth and legend. Crumbling old buildings, vine-covered walls, and worn cobblestone streets all combine to give Driegzar a sense of age, even amidst newer construction. The crowded city and the warren of sewers beneath it are rumored to hold a number of forgotten secrets.
Driegzar's criminal underworld is alive and well. The thieves of competing guilds not only rob and burgle the homes of the rich, they often fight among one another for territory. The many neighborhood gangs commit petty crimes, but tend to be protective of the locals. More nefarious factions such as the secret blood cults prey upon the innocent townsfolk, while keeping a very low profile in public. There are imperial guards that protect the palace, and private mercenary companies are employed by the wealthy. There is also a city watch that has posts throughout the city; guard members are often more closely affiliated with local crime families and guilds. Residents and visitors to the city are actually encouraged to bear arms, since the city relies on the people themselves to keep the peace.