Hvítrbjarg (Hev-eeter-bee-argh)
Located on the South Western coats of Galtarland is the prosperous trading town of Hvítrbjarg. It is the furthermost point of the High Road to Hammerdeep.
Named after the large white cliffs that encircle its naturally protected harbor, it is one of the greatest merchant cities of the Galts. The cliffs are often described as a pair of great crane's wings that encircle the bay. A gentle slope at the back of the bay leads down into a plateau whereupon the city rests.
The city, and the surrounding towns and countryside, is ruled by Jarl Birger Goldeye. A shrewd and charismatic man, edging towards the former. He has ruled the city for the better part of half a century, and is widely regarded by the people as "kinda like my uncle." He's generally regarded as a good ruler, but some concerns have been raised regarding his advancing age.
Economically the city is a major trading hub, and the Easternmost end of the High Road trade network. Ships come and go from the port on a daily basis. The most common of which are the knörr, merchant longships that ply up and down the coast. Ships launched from the White Port travel as far as Marsir Eyjariki, the Rikis, and even at times the mysterious island ofAraqar.
The city is protected by the Jarl's personal host of men, and The Band of Grey Axes. A mercenary company led by the Jarl's own son, Hakon Bloodbindings. Their men are spread throughout the towns and villages that swear allegiance to Hvítrbjarg, along with a company of a hundred men stationed in the Jarl's keep.
A fleet of five ships patrol the waters along the coast claimed by Hvítrbjarg, and are occasionally deployed on raids at the Jarl's digression.
Named after the large white cliffs that encircle its naturally protected harbor, it is one of the greatest merchant cities of the Galts. The cliffs are often described as a pair of great crane's wings that encircle the bay. A gentle slope at the back of the bay leads down into a plateau whereupon the city rests.
The city, and the surrounding towns and countryside, is ruled by Jarl Birger Goldeye. A shrewd and charismatic man, edging towards the former. He has ruled the city for the better part of half a century, and is widely regarded by the people as "kinda like my uncle." He's generally regarded as a good ruler, but some concerns have been raised regarding his advancing age.
Economically the city is a major trading hub, and the Easternmost end of the High Road trade network. Ships come and go from the port on a daily basis. The most common of which are the knörr, merchant longships that ply up and down the coast. Ships launched from the White Port travel as far as Marsir Eyjariki, the Rikis, and even at times the mysterious island ofAraqar.
The city is protected by the Jarl's personal host of men, and The Band of Grey Axes. A mercenary company led by the Jarl's own son, Hakon Bloodbindings. Their men are spread throughout the towns and villages that swear allegiance to Hvítrbjarg, along with a company of a hundred men stationed in the Jarl's keep.
A fleet of five ships patrol the waters along the coast claimed by Hvítrbjarg, and are occasionally deployed on raids at the Jarl's digression.
Notable Attractions.
Statue of Njord. One of the most famed features of Hvítrbjarg is a statue of Njord carved into the Northern cliff face. It is an ornate, if somewhat exaggerated statue. Standing easily three men tall. It is claimed that it's presence calms the seas around the port, rendering it perfect for naval travel. It is a common rumor that the statue of Njord by the god himself. When in fact it was carved by a band of dwarven craftsmen hired by Jarl Bjorn Brittleskull, to commemorate the tenth generation of his line ruling the city. Jarl Birger is quick to point this out to anyone who mentions it in his presence.
The Tavern of The Wandering Seals. The most popular attraction for sailors and travelers visiting Hvítrbjarg is The Wandering Seals, the most prestigious tavern in the port. Constructed to resemble a turned-over ship, the longhouse offers a wide range of spirits, seafood, and things roasted on the spit. Its most notable attractions are the skeletons of a pod of seals hung from the ceiling in the motions of travel. It is run by the former merchant sailor Eflasjór, who's well known for throwing drunk patrons from her tavern.
The house special is a brew of mead known as Saltmead. It is made by a secret process that leaves it with a somewhat fishy taste, one which nonetheless quenches the thirst of all.
Frode's Finery. The most successful private merchant in the city is run by Thane Frode Glamson, who is well known as a cunning and intelligent businessman. He sends many ships per year on expeditions, accompanying many of them. In recognition for his service bringing wealth to the city, he was made a Thane of Jarl Goldeye.
Taxes.
- City entrance fee: 2 copper per person.
- Import fee: 1 copper per 2 pounds of trade goods brought into the city.
- Trade tax (only applies to items that cost more than 5gp): 5% of price, or equivalent. IE: trading a cow for multiple pigs, both worth 10gp. 5 silver coins are paid by the owner of the pigs, while the owner of the cow gives a bucket of milk to the authorities.
Trivia
Coat of Arms: Azure, a seal Or glissant sinister.
- The city animal of Hvítrbjarg is the seal.
- It is customary for captains to toss a silver coin towards the statue of Njordas they leave port. Some more superstitious sailors will trek along the cliffside path to place their offering directly.
- Coins of any kind minted in Hvítrbjarg are often referred to as Seals, due to a representation of the animal placed on the back of the coin. Gold coins are occasionally called True Seals, due to it matching the animal as displayed on the city's coat of arms.
Type
City
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