FOUNDED 1507
Pazuzu City rises from the Pennine hills as a beacon of energy and culture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Its streets are alive with movement and purpose, elegant stone facades framing bustling avenues filled with artisanal markets, independent venues, and thriving businesses. Winding rivers and green spaces weave through its urban expanse, creating a seamless connection to the dramatic hills that serve as its backdrop. The city pulses with life, blending modern ambition with deep-rooted traditions, fostering an atmosphere of constant vibrancy and progress.
At its heart are four grand roads—North Gate, East Passage, Westward Arches, and South Gate—spanning outward like points on a compass. These thoroughfares symbolise the city’s founding principles of sanctuary and welcome, inviting travellers from every direction. Over the centuries, they have evolved to accommodate the flow of humanity, transitioning from dirt paths to bustling roads capable of supporting modern traffic. Yet, their essence remains unchanged: a promise of safety for those seeking refuge, opportunity, or simply a place to call home.
Like other NetherKind Cities, Pazuzu established rigorous border inspections in the 20th century, ensuring the safety of its inhabitants by vetting those who entered. These checks were a direct response to the chaos of Ch’i-Lin, a Chinese NetherKind city whose lack of control led to corruption and lawlessness. While some view these measures with suspicion, they ensure that Pazuzu remains a haven for those who truly need it, balancing openness with caution. Still, no system is flawless, and whispers persist of illicit means to bypass the gates—whether through hidden routes or the weight of wealth and influence.
Pazuzu’s history is steeped in resilience. In 1507, during the city’s infancy, all four gates were closed for the first and only time in its 600-year history. The English, angered by Pazuzu’s support for the newly established NetherKind city of Balam in the Americas, laid siege to the city. What followed was The Year of Siege—a harrowing conflict that saw Pazuzu endure against all odds. It was not until the combined forces of Balam and Malphas, a German NetherKind city, intervened that the siege was broken. This marked a turning point for the NetherKind Cities, showcasing their unity and strength on the global stage and securing their place in the world’s geopolitical landscape.
The scars of that siege remain a source of pride and determination for Pazuzu City. Its resilience in the face of annihilation defined its character, and when its gates reopened in 1508, the city emerged stronger than ever. Today, that same spirit endures, reflected in its streets, its people, and its purpose.
What sets Pazuzu apart is its delicate balance of humans and NetherKind, a coexistence that shapes every facet of its identity. From its thriving cultural scene, echoing with live music and late-night gatherings, to its political debates and hidden rivalries, Pazuzu is a city of contrasts. It’s a place where secrets linger in the shadows and every decision carries the weight of its fragile harmony.
At the heart of this dynamic city is Heidi Everdale’s story. Pazuzu City is her home, its vibrant chaos a backdrop to her struggles and triumphs. But just as the city has shaped her, so does Heidi influence the city's political future.