Farshore
Wood-frame buildings and wattle-and-daub structures sit on solid stone foundations near the shoreline of the crescent-shaped harbor that is the lifeblood of this town. Floating wooden docks extend into the harbor and provide safe berths for large ships. The Barrier Islands to the west make Farshore the only reasonably safe port for deep draft boats and large ships to dock for food, water, and supplies when traveling Oceanus between the Sinnar Ocean and the Crescent Sea. While Tindledusk farther to the west can handle large ships, it doesn’t encourage and welcome trade the way Farshore does, and weather and conditions make Farshore an easier port of call for large vessels.
The summer months bring extensive ship travel through the area that extends into early fall. Periodic storms from late fall through spring make travel dangerous for ships, however, and as a result, Farshore must largely survive on the trade that takes place during the summer months. During high times, there are as many as three large ships and three smaller vessels (the maximum its small docks can handle) as well as some ships anchored farther out. When the port is at capacity, the population can be as much as 50–60% higher than normal, as fishermen and craftsmen come to trade with the passing ships.
History and People
Originally little more than an island village supporting fishermen of the area, Farshore grew with the advent of larger ships making long journeys from the Sinnar Ocean to the Crescent Sea. Many of the humans here are descendants of the original travelers from Oceander who arrived thousands of years ago, while the rest are of Foerdewaith descent. The few half-elves and merfolk who make their home here tend to keep themselves hidden from travelers. The merfolk are those who were cast out of their villages for some reason and have been welcomed by Mayor Mourtil Rouvarche so long as they provide assistance maintaining the harbor.
Trade and Commerce
Farshore exists as a trading port, not for major items, but for the food and fresh water ships require to make the long journey to and from the Crescent Sea. As one of the only safe ports for large ships in this region, Farshore is a destination for fishermen and fruit growers from the mainland during the summer months when trade is at its highest point. The tariffs charged are used to promote the village and maintain the docks. Aside from the food and freshwater, pearls are also traded here as some of the oysters found in the Barrier Islands provide beautiful pink and white pearls. The island itself is home to a number of small farms and orchards that provide additional food and spices for trade.
Government
Mayor Mourtil Rouvarche is the unchallenged ruler of the village and leader of the small militia that controls the docks and all other aspects of village life. There is little crime in this small village due to a combination of draconian laws and Mourtil’s support of the “true” citizens of Farshore. Mourtil acts as judge and jury for any conflicts and has a history of always ruling in favor of his citizens. Ship captains know to keep control of their sailors when on shore leave as any violence against a citizen of Farshore brings about a death penalty with little chance of a trial.
While Mourtil controls much of the trade and makes a great deal of money on tariffs, he puts a lot of effort into ensuring that his citizens are cared for and that the village and docks are kept in good repair. Mourtil is a good ruler who is well-liked by the citizens. This said, his word is law and he does not tolerate anyone disputing his authority. He banishes citizens who speak out against him in public but is more tolerant if someone brings a complaint to him privately.
Major Threats
While too out of the way for any nearby countries to try to control, Farshore is important to merchant traffic. So long as trade tariffs are kept reasonable, it is unlikely any nation will choose to attack or demand its fealty, though if such a thing were to occur, Mourtil would likely surrender quickly to avoid damage to his town. Storms, sea creatures, and occasional pirate attacks (which are more easily defended) do occur, and the town often has to recover from damage from such events. So far, the sahuagin farther to the west pose no threat though Mourtil keeps a cautious eye in that direction.
Settlement
Farshore, Town of
Type
Town
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