The Upper City, separated from the Lower City by a wall, includes several extensive villa complexes. The water supply is exclusively via the Feggagir, and this area is also virtually self-sufficient in terms of food thanks to its well-irrigated fields and gardens, which belong to each seraglio. Foreigners and non-members of the major clans are only permitted entry if they are invited as guests or if they are performing services for the high lords.
Al'Shorioth Among the palaces of the Upper City, one in particular stands out: Al'Shorioth, the old and new residence of the caliphs. The magnificent building with its lush gardens was deserted for a long time before the Caliph once again chose Unau as his capital. Today, however, the richly furnished 99 rooms of the palace complex are once again filled with life. Caliph Malkillah III lives here. and the entire court in unimaginable luxury: The few who were granted a reception in the inner sanctum report golden furniture with upholstery made of elven hair, adamant mosaics on the floors and walls, as well as fountains and bathing pools whose jets spurt up pleasantly warm water—but sometimes also wine, milk, or pomegranate juice, if the Caliph wishes to amaze his guests. The Caliph's seven wives and his concubines live in the strictly guarded harem of the Caliph.
Al'Shabaoth The palace of the Sultan of Unau is located in the immediate vicinity of the Caliph's palace. It cannot be ruled out that the palaces once belonged together. After the return of the Caliph, Al'Shabaoth was magnificently renovated and expanded. The four pillars of the Great Tent (the First Mawdli, the Khedive, the Almosar, and the Mautaban) reside here. The firstborn sons of the Novadian tribal sultans also live in this palace, where they serve both as advisors to the Council of Nine and as hostages. In addition, there are numerous servants and guards who ensure the well-being and protection of the residents. In terms of its splendor and furnishings, Al'Shabaoth does not have to fear comparison with Al'Shorioth. One wing of the palace is occupied by Crown Prince Marwan.
Other Palaces Each of Unau's nine high families lives in a palace in the upper city. The buildings are constructed of sandstone from the nearby mountains. The walls of almost all buildings are clad with white limestone slabs, and the domes glitter with their quartz sand glaze; only the towers display the natural ochre hue. The lush gardens are filled with fertile mud from the Balash and planted with almond, olive, and fruit trees; each is irrigated by its own foggara. The nine families have to vote in the anointing of a new Sultan and hold important positions such as that of Vizier-el-Bir, who is responsible for the drinking water supply, or the Commander of the Yellow Hearts.
