Qat'alsa is an Azal'qan-dominated city located in the northern hemisphere of Tempus, south of Aion. The city is a significant center for Azal'qan heritage, particularly for the O'qazeni tribe, whose monastic lifestyle aligns with its spiritual focus. Despite growing influence from humans and other races, it has maintained its cultural identity while adapting to technological progress.
Founded centuries before human contact, Qat'alsa was originally home to all three Azal'qan peoples—the Al'qoqin, Dha'faras, and O'qazeni. As the tribes developed different philosophies on achieving enlightenment, the Al'qoqin warriors and wealth-seeking Dha'faras gradually moved away to pursue their respective paths, leaving the O'qazeni monks as the primary inhabitants.
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Location: Planet Tempus, Oceanic System
Affiliation: Intergalactic Alliance
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Qat'alsa is situated in the northern hemisphere of Tempus, south of Aion. The city's landscape is characterized by rolling hills that provide natural spaces for meditation and spiritual practices, particularly around its religious landmarks.
The city has a blend of traditional and modern architecture. Traditional architecture reflects the Azal'qa's distinctive features, with many structures incorporating glowing elements that mimic their ability to illuminate their body markings. Qat'alsa is divided into four main districts: Spiritual District, Cultural District, Commerce District, and Residential District. The Spiritual District is centered around the Beq'zanzo Temple and Shrine of Elders, serving as the heart of O'qazeni monastic life. The Cultural District preserves Azal'qan heritage and traditions, while the Commerce District facilitates trade and economic activities. The Residential District houses the city's diverse population, featuring architecture that blends traditional Azal'qan elements with modern amenities.
Qat'alsa holds immense cultural and spiritual significance as one of the primary centers of Azal'qan heritage on Tempus. It is a unique cultural landmark dedicated to tradition and modern development. The spiritual atmosphere, centered around the Beq'zanzo Temple and Shrine of Elders, attracts those seeking enlightenment and cultural understanding from across Tempus.
As one of the original settlements of all three Azal'qan tribes—Al'qoqin, Dha'faras, and O'qazeni—before their divergence, Qat'alsa represents a crucial piece of Azal'qan history. Though now primarily associated with the O'qazeni, political leaders of all three tribes gather near the Shrine of Elders to discuss matters of mutual importance.
The an'to-wa ("beggar") monks are a common sight in Qat'alsa, particularly near the Beq'zanzo Temple and along the roads leading to the Shrine of Elders. These traveling monks are known for accepting food offerings from passing citizens, maintaining a tradition deeply rooted in Azal'qan spirituality.