Shanghai

### Influence

Chinese architecture is built into every corner and facet of every building; it is worthy of note however, that given how vain many of them are, the wealthiest of the wealthy hire contract builders to forge exotic pieces.

### Ruler

Shanghai has no rigid government structure; it is mostly ruled over by various Triad gangs, who constantly vie for power over one another. In this respect, ruling styles can change drastically from year to year, as infighting and power struggles are forever constant.

## Overview

Named after the old world city, **Shanghai** is the heart and soul of the Gilded Lands, nestled away in a mountainous vista that prevents onlookers from marveling at its new world glory. Much like the goddess in which they worship, Shanghai is a den of avarice and wealth, with casinos and expensive landmarks placed abound and statues crafted in the honor of the local gods. Towers scrape the sky, glimmering in the infinite sun that graces the glistening lands. Naturally, architecture holds a specific Asian aesthetic, with pagodas and oriental craftsmanship being most commonplace. Even with all the wealth in the system, the Chinese would never dare to turn their backs on what culture brought them here. The same architecture can be seen in many other mediums, such as sailing vessels and even clothing. Only the wealthiest of the wealthy could afford to have something that isn't Chinese in make.

## City Sectors

### Vice District

True to its name, the Vice District holds all the vices that one man could ever give into. This lower sector of the city is full of brothels and casinos and any other seedy business with maximum profits. Some of the wealthiest people in the city run these companies, and aren't too fond of those who might try to screw them out of money. It is also worthy of note that this is only the lowest sector of the city and often rarely gets any natural light; neon signs dot narrow streets, offering a glimpse into a far-off future not yet realized.

### Upper Shanghai

Only the wealthiest or those of nobility see themselves in Upper Shanghai. Rows of glass cages sit suspended in the upper mountains, looking down upon everyone else as though they were but simple ants to be judged and prosecuted. The complete opposite of the Vice District, this sector is normally relegated to more white-collar careers, mostly things like doctors or lawyers. The entire upper section of the city is effectively this; a second city, prim and proper and shining forever in the light of the sun. The elite of the Triad operate from here, keeping watch over the city from above and below.

### Temple District

Behind the city is the Temple District, where those who still rely in their faith come to worship both their own god and on occasion, the rest of the Rubidian pantheon. Various shrines line a steep incline, rising up the mountainside to the south of the main city. It is rumored that there are 10,000 steps, from the bottom of the mountain to the top. Anyone who is able to climb every single step in one day will be able to meet with Fucang Long, who may grant them a boon. More recently, many have stopped visiting the goddess, who doesn't seem to care either way; the greedy serpent would rather remain reclusive, high in her mountain temple.