Alkaessan

Alkaessan is a city-state on the western coast of Nymera, centered around a natural harbor. It is a compact urban region with a long maritime tradition. The population is about 610,000. The official language is Alkan, with Common Tongue used in commerce; English is widely understood. The alk is the currency.

Name and geography: The name Alkaessan combines ancient Alkan terms meaning harbor stone and seat. The city sits on a coastal plain with hills inland and a crescent bay; the climate is temperate with dry summers.

Historically a trading post founded in the 12th century, Alkaessan gained autonomy in the late Middle Ages and became a free city-state in the 15th century. It developed as a financial and maritime hub and later established a constitutional framework in the 19th century.

Governing system: Alkaessan is a constitutional republic with a bicameral legislature: the General Assembly and the Council. The President is the head of state; the Prime Minister leads government and is appointed by the Assembly. Elections occur every four years.

Economy: The port is central to finance, shipbuilding, and light manufacturing. The city is a regional hub for trade and logistics, with a growing digital economy supported by research institutions.

Culture and education: Notable features include the Festival of the Tide and maritime museums. Alkaessan University, founded in the 18th century, is renowned for maritime engineering and climate science. The city emphasizes secular governance and minority rights and maintains international ties.