Yes, and if I remember correctly, the romans IRL pronounced it Kai-Zar not Ceasar as well.
Q:
Has anyone played this game as a complete loner (not siding with any faction), and is that way fun? Also, since it is related, has anyone tried being a complete pacifist?
I will be next time I start again, well as peaceful as I can. Not ALL quests can be solved w/o killing.
If I want to set up a house that's not mine (like a shack or an abandoned highway patol building) is it safe to put my things there and not worry about them going missing?
Yes, mostly. I have not seen may (or any) containers that respawn.
Q:
am I the only one who finds saying Kai-Zar more fun than the other way?
Besides it sounds cooler.