The city of Dekah

***Notice***Note from the Bureau***Notice***

The city of Dekah is perhaps the single most interesting city in the gifted lands. hosting a large population and a great many species, it is considered a cultural marvel by scholars of both the academia lodge and the lodge of hunters. The Scientia Bibliotheca has this to say regarding the jewel of the desert.

***Notice***Note from the Bureau***Notice***

The city of Dekah is the oldest capital outside the northern isles. Initially amassing wealth through the slave trade, it has diversified and now leads in the export of spider silks and rare spices. As the second wealthiest city globally, following the dwarven capital of Morbeth, Dekah exhibits a distinct lifestyle and social interaction. While its inhabitants are generally articulate and well-mannered, they possess an affinity for the unlawful, with societal norms that are more primal and unconventional compared to the rest of the world. 

With a population of three million, Dekah is the world's largest city, bustling with traders, merchants, and commoners, and showcasing unparalleled diversity in Fornvollr. The absence of religious allegiance or inherited biases has fostered a society less prejudiced against race, gender, or other superficial forms of discrimination. 

Originally established as a monarchy, Dekah was ruled by the great sphinx for as long as history recalls. In her later years, she became more lenient and perhaps solitary, sharing her rule with six esteemed individuals from her territories, though it is believed she retains significant influence. Nevertheless, she has never overridden a council decision. Consequently, for centuries, Dekah has thrived, emerging as a global power and the first city to gain independence from the northern isles.  

During the great war of the sands, Dekah's formidable army nearly drove the titans to extinction after they had emerged from deep within the earth. Dekah then secured the allegiance of the titans when the great sphinx offered them survival in exchange for their protection of Dekah and its citizens. Today, these towering figures stand scattered along the city's walls, appearing as statues yet remaining ever watchful. 

Situated as a magnificent oasis in the deserts of Therindra, Dekah is the largest of its kind. Its springs produce hundreds of thousands of gallons daily, allowing the flora and populace to focus on pursuits beyond basic sustenance. The water is crystal clear with a deep indigo hue. The port hosts a great reef where fishermen have thrived for millennia, with aquatic populations remaining stable despite extensive fishing. Merfolk inhabit the waters alongside other marine creatures. Typically hostile, these Merfolk coexist harmoniously with land dwellers, and many believe they contribute to the thriving aquatic life. The skies are alive with tropical birds and occasional elementals.  

Dekah hosts numerous significant celebrations, with the Festival of Aurora and the Trial of Gazheel being the most notable. 

The Festival of Aurora (The Festival of Lights) 

Each year, the city of Dekah hosts the Festival of Aurora to celebrate the desert lights. Residents of Therindra gather within Dekah's city walls, adorned in glow paint. The city becomes illuminated with the vibrant body paint of people dancing in the streets. Colored chalk fills the sky, and mages release fireworks from their wands and staffs while bards provide musical entertainment. This seven-day festival occurs annually following the final harvest. 

The Trial of Gazheel

The Trial of Gazheel takes place every four years, allowing the populace to express their confidence in the council members through a public forum. Should a council member be found guilty of crimes against the city or exploiting their position for personal gain—whether through wealth, influence, or trade—they are exiled to the Isle of Gazheel. This harsh and unforgiving cluster of islands, located a few miles off the coast, ensures their demise. This trial is the primary reason for the council's success and lack of corruption since the third era of their governance.