Zhan’s splendor comes not from mines, nor from produce, nor from woven cloth, but from trade. It is the town closest to the well-traveled waterways that lead to the heart of the Bloodlands, and from there to both north and south. As a result, this town specializes in the buying, marketing and transport of many goods. The town itself is constructed of wood and adobe, a mark of the prosperity here, for it is still in the desert, and wood must be carried in. The oldest structures, Domadir trading’s stable and the temple, are constructed of stone. Sheep and wheat are the major locally produced commodities.
Buildings:
Temple of Edalirin
The temple is built of stone quarried nearby. It houses many gifts (often silver or gold work) that are left on the steps by traders hoping for blessings in the bargaining and the travel associated with their business. These gifts line the sides of the temple on shelves that are constructed for that purpose.
Priest’s Residence
The small priest’s residence is constructed of adobe.
School
Since mathematics and language are important to trading, the priest runs a small school. Those who study here come not only from Zhan, but also from other trading towns. They live on the upper floor, and take their meals in the Kestrel Inn.
Kestrel Inn
The Kestrel Inn, named after the swift bird of prey, is run by Adnan Thohac and his family. It is a well built wood and adobe structure, and is famous for its service.
Adricia Stable
Milan Adricia, the brother-in-law of Adnan Thohac, runs the stable that serves caravans coming to Zhan. He lives in the inn.
Domadir Trading
Erek Domadir, brother-in-law of Calegan Mirandeb of Tatris, uses his contacts there as well as elsewhere to fill his storehouse. He sends caravans throughout Sakoian lands, dealing with the traders that come from other, more well-watered places. Treasures of many kinds are found in his storehouse.
Domadir Stable
Half of the stable stores harness and trading goods for Domadir, the other half serves to house the animals that he relies on to carry his goods. The stables are run for Domadir by Oran Swaryi, who serves as healer/vet for Domadir as well as others in town. Swaryi has three youths working for him, and some say he has been trained by the Hands of Mercy.
Lannor Merchant
Ereahan Lannor, in competition with Domadir, tends to deal more with local markets than distant caravans. There are plenty of traders from nonbelievers’ lands for him to keep his warehouse well stocked. He also deals in local foodstuffs, and has facilities for carding, spinning and weaving wool.
HOM
The Hands of Mercy’s outpost in Zhan is small, but as this is an area of cultural exchange, it is usually well traveled and well stocked.
Thaethiel Smith
Poe Thaethiel is from the wetlands, but immigrated with a caravan and took up the smithy after the former smith died. He married one of Domaril’s daughters, and they have two sons, who are learning the smith’s trade from their father. Poe also works closely with Issar Kowiel when collaboration is needed.
Kowiel, Carter
Though carts and wagons are not commonly used in the desert, sometimes traders drive them as far as Zhan. Issar Kowiel is a carter and barrelmaker who relies on wood from merchants to repair and replace those items. In addition, he has a son who is becoming a master in cabinetry. Issar and his family live in the building.
Rhyde Leathers
Bopa Rhyde works in leather to create and repair harness, shoes and any other leather goods. He and his family live in the back of the store.
Ocoir Mill
Dric Ocoir runs the mill, where locally grown wheat is ground into flour.
Mamar Bakery
Lot Mamar and his wife run the bakery. They produce breads, cakes, pies and other sweets for consumption by locals.
Gaejan, Ropemaker
Farla Gaejan and his family not only make rope, but weave baskets and repair some canvas goods. Farla himself is also a bowmaker of some talent, and provides both local hunters and caravans with bows, strings and arrows.
Other Structures
Jeraylind’s Well
Before Zhan was a town, there were local shepherds. Legend has it that Jeraylind, a daughter of one of the local chieftains was out with her flock, when a horrible sand demon accosted her. To preserve her purity, she prayed to Edalirin to save her. Her wish was granted, and to keep the sand demon away, she was transformed into a deep well, from which pure water can be drawn.
The Sentinels
Four tall palms were set around the well that the chieftain’s daughter was spirited into. They are ever vigilant, and keep the sand demons from clouding the water.