Grand Barlov

"How would I describe Grand Barlov? Breathtaking, rich, inspiring! The peasants won't understand the true beauty of wealth overflowing, but once you've had a taste of gold and the luxury it brings? Oh, it simply cannot be beat."

— A Barlovian Noble

A city said to be built on a foundation of gold, Grand Barlov features only the wealthiest in its population. Located on the eastern coast, its financial prosperity as well as breathtaking vistas makes the sprawling city a dream come true for potential settlers, provided they can afford the exorbitant fees and taxes required to own and maintain land.
Denizens often live in laps of luxury, frequently participating in lavish feasts and ballroom dancing. These events, while opulent, also serve several social means, such as providing means to mingle and rub shoulders with other businessmen, discuss possible wedding arrangements for their children, or even to display their own financial prowess to potentially jealous onlookers.
This all has a cost, however, as outside of Barlov they are either regarded as saints, usually by a slovenly bootlick praying for loose coin, or, more commonly, as haughty and spoiled. This disdain is usually earned as most nobles are described as 'having their nose lifted higher than their eyebrows'. Barlovian citizens range from condescendingly tolerant to outright toxic in their 'better than thou' standpoint, which is naturally off putting to the rest of the practical, meagerly spending world.

Government

Plutocracy - Grand Barlov features a 'Royal Auction' every few years where they auction off the rulership of the kingdom to citizens. The amount of money wagered is said to be dizzying.

Industry & Trade

Barlovians are cunning business opportunists, specializing in mercantile practices of the highest order. This includes purchasing raw goods, commissioning artisans, and then selling the finished product at increased amounts, as well as taking advantage of wars and disasters by selling supplies to the highest bidder.
Some say they're allied with seedy orders to further their financial gains.

Geography

It settles near the eastern edge of the western continent with its closest neighbor being Yutonnel, a few days of carriage travel time. It stretches to the end of the sea facing cliffs, but is otherwise settled in a flat basin, as north and south feature large hills.

Natural Resources

Perhaps the best natural resource is its beautiful scenery. As a coastal city, it has access to many overlooks both on the edge, as well as the hills that provide a beautiful overlook, not to mention the grand view of the city itself.
Due to the stunning taxes and fees imposed upon settling, only the wealthy can afford the location, thus contributing to Grand Barlov's ever increasing prosperity.

by Adam Brockbank

Alternative Name(s)

The City of Nobles

Type

Large city

Inhabitant Demonym

Barlovian

by Final Fantasy Team