The views in Absalom’s Ivy District—the capital of the arts in the Inner Sea region—cannot be rivaled. Despite its meager footprint, the city’s smallest district is packed full of more people, parks, attractions, and artwork than most visitors could even imagine fitting into one place. Featuring narrow streets lined with ancient trees and flowering ivy, breathtaking architecture, and the finest theaters, performance halls, and artist colonies Absalom has to offer, the Ivy District is proud of its worldwide reputation for innovation, art, and beauty.

Over the last century, as the district’s reputation has blossomed, its demographics have also shifted. Wealthy patrons of the arts and nobles seeking the distinction of living near exquisite galleries and restaurants have been buying land for their expansive manors and private gardens, pushing the district’s artists and students out into ever-shrinking spaces designated for them. Small dorms that once comfortably offered private rooms are now overflowing with residents in need of affordable housing. Performers scrape by primarily on the patronage of the district’s noble elite, and maintaining their favor is paramount to survival.