Nahranbar
Nahranbar is a fictional city featured in the Acts of Caine series of novels by Matthew Stover. It is located on the alien world of Overworld, the setting for the majority of the series' action.
Nahranbar serves as a major hub of commerce, political intrigue, and gladiatorial combat. Ruled by the immortal High Lords and Ladies, it is a place of both incredible wealth and crushing poverty. The city is characterized by its brutal social hierarchy, where individuals are valued based on their skill in combat, political maneuvering, and ability to provide entertainment to the elite. The citizens of Nahranbar are often highly skilled warriors, assassins, and artisans, all competing for power and survival in a ruthless environment.
The architecture of Nahranbar is frequently described as grand and imposing, reflecting the power of the ruling class. Its streets are filled with a diverse population, including humans, aliens, and genetically modified creatures. It is a city rife with corruption, conspiracy, and hidden agendas, making it a dangerous but compelling location for the series' protagonist, Caine. The city also relies heavily on advanced technology, often interwoven with brutal gladiatorial practices.
Nahranbar is a central location in the Acts of Caine saga, and understanding its social dynamics and power structures is crucial to grasping the overall themes of the series.