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Korina Capital City, Balaia Korina is a busy trading city built at the head of the River Kour estuary. It is by far the largest city in Balaia, though can only properly be called the capital city of Eastern Balaia - the Wesmen have their own capital in the west. Despite its position, it is the principal deep water port for the fleets of Calaius to the south as well as eastern and northern land masses, given its potential for greater profit and better defined transport links inland. A highly seasonal city, the population can swell to 300,000 during key trading and festival times. The arrival of trader fleets attracts itinerant workers looking to swell their summer and winter coffers. The architecture of the city serves notice of its less popular side. In the spring months, high winds and hurricanes periodically sweep along the estuary, funnelled by the hills rising either side. Consequently, most buildings are built to be sturdy and low. Korina is the home of the Korina Trade Alliance; the now mainly defunct association of Barons and Lords. In years gone by, it set trading laws and levies and became fat on the proceeds of the cartel. Now, though, the internecine squabbling and fighting renders it and its rules redundant. Not to forget the north side of the western market (which sells goods from fine cloth to pottery and iron work, to food) on which lies The Rookery. It is an unimposing building but is home to The Raven and consequently, is busy every day… Tomas, the co-owner isn't complaining. |