Lion's Arch Rebuilding Brings Signs of Gentrification

No one will ever forget the year 1327 AE, when Scarlet Briar and her minions unleashed a massive and deadly attack on the fabled city of Lion's Arch. Although the battle only lasted several days, the effects of the conflict are still felt to this day as the wreckage of the villain's massive airship 'Breachmaker'  have forever changed the city's landscape. Nearly a year later, the Lionguard and its allies have all but completed their massive rebuilding project, hoping to bring their home back to its former glory.

However, not everyone in Tyria is looking forward to the 'new and improved' Lion's Arch. As citizens begin to return, some have questioned if these changes are for the better.

Artist depiction of the 'new' Lion's Arch

One refugee who has recently returned to her home found herself out of a job shortly thereafter. "Before the war, I used to gather tiny fangs and make Minor Runes of the Ranger to sell to heroes passing through the city. Now you can't take ten steps without tripping over a merchant selling piles upon piles of vicious fangs and superior runes. Sure, the crime rate is falling and maniacal Secondborn Sylvari attacks are down 100%, but it feels like the city is losing its 'diversity'... if you get what I am saying."

This sudden increase in the quality of crafting materials will surely cause rent across Lion's Arch to rise. In the long term, experts predict the capital to be home almost exclusively to level 80s. "As auction houses and markets are flooded with expensive gear and crafting materials, prices of those particular items will fall slightly. This, in turn, will attract more and more level 80 characters to the city. However, as the demand for top tier goods rises, so does the price. It is expected that anyone not pulling in the salary of a max level will be forced to find a home elsewhere."

Citizens of Lion's Arch have also seen the arrival of new businesses seeking to capitalize on the changing social climate of the city. In the past three months alone, Chipotle, Forever 21, Target, 11 yoga studios, sixteen Starbucks, and one of those bars where you drink wine and paint a picture have all opened for business.

"I, for one, love what this city has become," raves a level 80 decked out in legendary and ascended gear. "There are more people like me here, if you catch my drift. Those low level green-geared peasants can go RP in The Grove for all I care... good riddance. Wait, that's not what I meant. I mean, I am NOT a classist, if that's what you're thinking. Some of my best friends are level 50s!"

Regardless of how anyone feels about the changes, they are here to stay. The long term effects will yet to be seen, but one thing is for certain: this is no longer your grandparents' Lion's Arch.