Barony of Blackshore

Government
Blackshore is governed by the Baron, who has numerous appointed Lords over the many aspects of the city. The most highly coveted position of any Lord is that over the ports - whatever Lord controls the ports earns the most from taxes levied on ships coming in - and by controlling the harbor, one can exert influence over the rest of the court. Naturally, this is a delicate balance - a Lord appointed can always be removed if the Baron is pressured to do so.

Local Lore and Culture
Being a port city, Blackshore has an intolerance for pirates. At the docks, in full view of docking ships, are sets of gallows where smugglers and pirates are publicly hanged - there to deter those who might consider that way of life.

The main square has a statue of the current Baron, and nearby are the stockades for those who have been sentenced to public punishment.

With the city having been built upon a massive cliff, it was designed in tiers - so that invaders from the sea would be met with a grueling uphill battle. Unfortunately for visitors and residents, this means making it up to the main part of the city - and into Vanigar beyond - is likewise a grueling challenge. Thankfully, there is a business of carriage rides - provided by massive Clydesdale-like horses - for only 3sp per person - between each tiered section (there are three tiers).

Blackshore has temples to Tyr and Helm available to those in need - though traditional medicines are still attempted before the use of any magic.