Mistcliff

Mistcliff sits on the southern coast of the Kingdom of Avalyra, acting as a major port in the country, facilitating trade with other port towns around the kingdom. Approaching from the south or west, the city appears an opulent, thriving city, with a large castle perched atop a rocky rise jutting out from the mainland. However, from the east, the contrast becomes apparent between this palatial keep, and the slums further down the cliffs. Surrounding the main docks, these slums are home to those the mayor, Wymare Harding, deems as beneath him.
The bay around the base of the cliffs is usually covered in thick fog, giving the town its name. These mists often coat the lower parts of the city as well, making the lives of those living there yet more miserable.

Demographics

Humans make up the majority of Mistcliff's population, particularly in the clifftop districts where Harding's influence is strongest. A few elves, dwarves and other races live in these districts as well, though the majority of non-humans make their homes in the coastal slums, oppressed by Wymare and his city guard, led by the ruthless Lionel Giffain.

Government

Wymare Harding rules Mistcliff from his opulent mansion, overlooking the rest of the city from the rocky outcrop housing his favoured few. He actively oppresses many of his people, especially elves and dwarves, using the town guard as his own personal army. All trade through the city pays a tithe to him, which he portions out to a handful of his most loyal followers to keep them loyal.

History

Mistcliff has a long-standing history of tension with the kingdom at large, with more than one attempted revolution in its past. In 347, the viscount declared the town an independent state, but was quashed within the year by the Avalyran military marching on the town. Then, in 444, the populace overthrew the viscount, installing their own queen and seceding once more. This lasted several years, until the queen was killed in mysterious circumstances. Her son took the throne, and soon swore fealty to the kingdom once more. Mistcliff has remained part of Avalyra since, though there have been several smaller instances of tension boiling over.

Type

Large city

Location under

Avalyra

Owner/Ruler

Wymare Harding

Ruling/Owning Rank

Mayor

Owning Organization

Kingdom of Avalyra