Sardothien

Sardothien is a fictional city featured in the role-playing game Pathfinder, developed by Paizo Publishing. It is the capital of the nation of Thuvia, located in the equatorial region of the planet Golarion. The city is renowned for its rich trade in sun orchids, a rare flower used to create the addictive drug known as bliss. This trade has made Sardothien both prosperous and a center of political intrigue.

The city's architecture is characterized by its use of white stone and vibrant colors, reflecting the sunny climate and the vibrant nature of the sun orchid trade. Sardothien's government is a unique system known as the Orchid Throne, where the ruler is chosen through a gladiatorial contest involving skilled warriors, often fueled by bliss. This practice contributes to the city's reputation for both decadence and danger.

Sardothien is a melting pot of cultures due to its position as a major trade hub. Merchants, adventurers, and individuals seeking fortune or escape can be found within its walls. The city's economy is heavily reliant on the export of sun orchids and the ensuing bliss trade, which attracts attention from various factions and nations across Golarion. The constant demand for bliss leads to a complex social structure, with powerful merchant houses, a well-armed guard, and an underbelly of crime and corruption. Its strategic location also makes it a point of contention for those seeking to control the lucrative sun orchid market.