Starkport

Starkport is a bustling port town that sits on the eastern coast of Mera, a peninsula that juts out into the Blustery Bay. The town is split into two sections, High Town and Low Town, each with their own distinct architecture and atmosphere. High Town sits atop a steep cliff overlooking the bay, while Low Town sprawls out along the shoreline with a series of docks for fishing and cargo ships.
A large stone wall surrounds the town, beginning at the Cliffs of High Town and wrapping down and around Low Town. The wall is heavily guarded, and the town gate is closed to visitors who must request entry. Above the gate is a tower with a watchman who keeps an eye out for trouble. The wall also has several guard towers with archers ready to defend the town from any threats.

Demographics

Humans: 60% Elves: 15% Dwarves: 10% Gnomes: 5% Half-Elves: 4% Half-Orcs: 3% Firbolgs: 2% Others: 1%

Government

Starkport ia run by a mayor who is chosen by popular vote and serves a four-year term. The mayor's duties include presiding over the town council meetings, appointing department heads, and managing the town's budget. The town council is composed of eight members who are elected to four-year terms, two from each of the four districts. The council members act as representatives for their respective districts and work with the mayor to make decisions on behalf of the town.

Points of interest

• The Municipal Building: Located in the town square, this building serves as the center of government in Starkport. It is where the mayor's office is located, and it is also where important town meetings are held.
• The High Cliffs: These cliffs overlook Blustery Bay and provide stunning views of the water. There is a hiking trail that leads up to the cliffs, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
• The Docks: Located in Low Town, the docks are where fishing and cargo ships come in and out of the town. It is a busy area, with fishermen and sailors working on their boats and unloading their catch.
• The Market: Held in the town square every week, the market is where locals come to buy and sell goods. It is a bustling area, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
• The Church of the Changebringer: This large, ornate church is dedicated to the worship of the deity known as the Changebringer. The church is a popular destination for religious pilgrims and is known for its impressive stained-glass windows and beautiful gardens. The high priestess, Althea Moonwhisper, is respected throughout the town for her wisdom and guidance. The church also provides a number of charitable services to the community, including a soup kitchen and a shelter for the homeless.
• The Drunken Dragon Inn: This popular tavern is known for its strong ale and rowdy atmosphere. It is a favorite spot for adventurers and travelers passing through Starkport.

Architecture

The architecture of Starkport is predominantly characterized by its sturdy stone buildings with slate roofs. Most of the structures have a square or rectangular shape, with few round or angled edges. The stone is typically quarried from nearby hills or mountains, and is either left in its natural state or roughly hewn for use in construction.
Many of the buildings have small, barred windows and wooden shutters, giving them a fortress-like appearance. Some structures have decorative stone carvings or etchings, particularly those belonging to wealthier residents or important organizations.
The houses in High Town are often larger and more ornate than those in Low Town, with multiple stories, intricate stonework, and larger windows to take advantage of the stunning views of Blustery Bay. Meanwhile, the homes in Low Town are more functional and utilitarian in design, with smaller windows and fewer embellishments.
Overall, the architecture of Starkport is built to withstand the harsh coastal climate and provide its inhabitants with sturdy, secure homes.

Geography

Starkport sits on the Eastern Coast of Mera on the Shores of Blustery Bay. The town is divided into two sections, High Town and Low Town. High Town is built on a cliff overlooking the bay, while Low Town sits on the shore with a series of docks for fishing and cargo ships. The town is protected by a large stone wall that goes from the Cliffs of High Town and wraps down and around Low Town.
The town is surrounded by rolling hills and fertile plains to the west, while to the east lies the vast expanse of the Blustery Bay. A river runs through the town, dividing it into two parts, and providing a fresh water source for the inhabitants. The landscape is dotted with farms and orchards, providing the town with fresh produce and livestock. The climate is moderate, with cool sea breezes in the summer and mild winters.

Founding Date

4609

Type

Large town

Population

8,500.

Inhabitant Demonym

Starkportians

Owner/Ruler

Vivian Clarlow

Ruling/Owning Rank

Mayor

Owning Organization

Kingdom of Mera