Olbrint

The Forbinian city of Olbrint lies on the southern coast of Great Forbin and is a key trading point for the Seynan Islands and Asganton on Mar Miskun.

History

Olbrint’s history is deeply intertwined with its strategic location at the mouth of the River Olba, a gateway to the southern waters of Forbin. The city emerged in the early centuries following the landing of the Newcomers as a modest trading post, expanding rapidly as its natural harbour attracted merchants from the Seynan Islands and beyond. By 882, Olbrint was firmly established as the administrative center of Parroc, marked by the construction of the Lord Guardian's castle, which solidified its political importance.
Throughout the centuries, Olbrint has been a key player in Forbin's maritime history. Its shipyards became central to the realm’s naval power, producing vessels that secured victories against threats such as the Thalissian Empire. The city’s resilience was tested during the War of the Guardians (1588–1590), when its forces defended vital trade routes and supplied the armies of Parroc. However, the city's fortunes have not always been stable; the Great Famine of 2038 brought devastation, underscoring Olbrint’s reliance on regional trade and agricultural resources.
During the War of Salvation (2264–2265), Olbrint was both a critical target for Teros and a vital asset in Forbin’s retaliatory campaigns. Its shipyards supplied the war effort with smaller, agile vessels used to defend coastal waters and harass Terosi forces in the Olbrint Strait. The city endured multiple skirmishes, including the infamous Raid on Westharbour, which saw Forbin’s defenders repel an attempted Terosi landing. Following the tide of the war, Olbrint played a central role in Forbin’s assault on Teros Minor and the city of Elinann, with its fleets leading the southern campaign that culminated in Forbin’s decisive victory.

Power and politics

Government

The governance of Olbrint lies with Lady Rayna Tharnesta, the Lord Guardian of Parroc. Known for her sharp intellect and decisive leadership, Lady Tharnestra's administration is marked by pragmatism and a strong focus on maintaining Olbrint’s role as a cornerstone of Forbin’s southern trade and shipbuilding industries.

The Council of Olbrint, with representation from influential merchant families, guild leaders, and key religious figures, manages day-to-day affairs. While Lady Tharnestra holds the ultimate authority, she often relies on negotiation and delegation to align the competing interests of the council members, ensuring the city’s prosperity and political stability.

Defence and security

Lady Tharnestra maintains a small garisson of troops at Olbrint Castle. The castle’s location near the western harbour allows it to command the river and protect the city’s most vital assets.
The City Guard, under Captain Kendeen, is headquartered in Petty Gate, and is responsible for maintaining order within the walls - though their presence is strongest in wealthier districts like King’s Arch and Mallins Hill. Poorer districts, such as Eastbank and Woodgate, suffer the predations of organised crime despite the guard’s efforts.

Lady Lannis commands Forbin's southern naval force and its shipbuilding here in the city, and is responsible for the security of the Olbrint Strait.

Other powers

Several influential groups shape the power dynamics within Olbrint. The Guild of Merchants, led by the ruthless Ovaris Meldrin, dominates the city’s trade policies, leveraging its control over tariffs and contracts. Key merchant families, such as the Sennardons and the Drakmaars, wield considerable influence, particularly in the wool, wine, and timber industries.

Famed for its shipbuilders, Olbrint is home to some of Forbin's greatest shipyards, whose owners wield both commercial and political influence. The noble Perrenshar family is but one example. The Carpenters’ Guild, headed by Tandra Voscar, works to protect the interest of the labourers and craftsfolk that actually build the ships.

Olbrint's temples hold significant influence. At the Great Temple of Jires, the charismatic Brother Pellashan provides spiritual guidance and blessings to sailors and merchants.

However, not all power in Olbrint is legitimate. The Black Gulls, a criminal gang based in Eastbank, control smuggling operations and extort protection fees. Meanwhile, the Ravenspike Brotherhood, operating out of Woodgate, engages in forgery and petty crime, exerting quiet but pervasive influence over the city’s artisans and markets.

Geography and environment

Local geography

Olbrint occupies a prime position on the southern coast of Great Forbin, where the River Olba meets the sea. The city stands at the northern edge of the Olbrint Strait, a vital maritime passage connecting Forbin to the Seynan Islands and the wider archipelago. The strait’s strong currents and deep waters make it a critical trade route and a defensive chokepoint.
To the south of Olbrint lies Torbanan, an island fortress that guards the eastern entrance of the strait, its formidable stone towers a constant reminder of Forbin’s control over the region. Some 50 miles southwest of Olbrint, across the strait, is the island of Seyn Ferra, a key trade partner and occasional rival. Eastward, on the coast of the League of Mar Miskun stands Ashanok, almost 100 miles away, creating a triangle of economic and political interaction between these three key powers.
The land surrounding Olbrint is equally significant. To the west lie the dense Southwood, a source of timber for the city’s renowned shipyards. Northward, the rolling Parroc Hills give way to fertile farmland, sustaining the city with grains, wine, and wool. The Olba itself flows through this landscape, connecting Olbrint to inland settlements and serving as a highway for goods and people.
The city’s location, nestled between these natural and man-made landmarks, reflects its dual character: a thriving port city with strong ties to the sea and a gateway to the rich, rolling heartlands of Parroc. Its harbors and bridges embody the city’s economic lifeblood, while its proximity to strategic locations such as Torbanan and Seyn Ferra underscores its importance as a maritime hub and a bastion of Forbin’s southern frontier.

Design and architecture

City Districts

Olbrint is a city shaped by the River Olba and its harbors, divided between the bustling western and eastern banks and connected by the towering Piraga Bridges, which allow tall sailing ships to pass beneath them. Each district reflects the city’s maritime heritage and its role as a key shipbuilding and trading hub within Forbin.
To the west of the River Olba lies Woodgate, a working-class district centered around the city’s western gate. This area is dominated by timber yards and carpentry workshops that process wood from the nearby Southwood, supplying essential materials for Olbrint’s renowned shipyards. The streets of Woodgate are narrow and lined with modest homes, where laborers live close to their places of work. The western road leads out toward the Tower of Ferash and the villages along the coast, making this district a gateway for travelers and trade.
South of Woodgate lies Castle, the city’s administrative and upper-class district. Overlooking the western harbour, Castle Olbrint serves as the residence of the Lord Guardian, Rayna Tharnesta, and the seat of regional governance. The district is also home to the city’s wealthiest families, whose grand residences line its broad, well-maintained streets. Ornamental gardens and public squares lend the area a sense of refinement and authority.
Further south along the western bank is Westharbour, the heart of Olbrint’s maritime economy. This bustling district contains the city’s largest harbor, with two expansive pools designed to accommodate ocean-going ships. The harbourfront is alive with activity as shipwrights, dockworkers, and traders ensure the smooth operation of Olbrint’s vital shipyards and docks. Warehouses, taverns, and shops cater to the needs of sailors and merchants, while the Piraga Bridges connect the district to the eastern bank, ensuring the efficient movement of goods and labor.
At the western edge of the river lies King’s Arch, a vibrant mercantile district named for the grand monument that stands at its center. The city’s largest marketplace is located here, bustling with activity as merchants sell goods ranging from local textiles and ceramics to exotic imports from across the Helerin Archipelago. The streets are filled with the sounds of commerce, and the district serves as a key meeting point for residents and visitors alike. Galdeen's Bathhouse is a popular with merchants and traders.
To the north of King’s Arch is Northgate, a middle-class district known for its skilled artisans and its northern gate, which opens onto the road leading upstream to Fort Olba. Blacksmiths, coopers, and carpenters ply their trades here, supplying tools and materials for Olbrint’s industries. Near the Fox Bridge, a smaller shipyard specializes in the construction of river barges and smaller vessels, contributing to the city’s reputation for maritime craftsmanship.
Across the Fox Bridge on the eastern bank lies Foxbridge, a tranquil, middle-class district that is home to Olbrint’s Academy. The district’s cobbled streets and well-kept courtyards reflect the academic and residential character of the area. Students and scholars frequent the Academy, which specializes in navigation, engineering, and other disciplines vital to Olbrint’s shipbuilding and maritime trade.
Further south along the eastern bank is Old Dock, where the city’s smaller harbor serves river traffic and inland trade. The district is a hive of activity, with narrow streets and historic buildings giving it a distinct character. Old Dock’s quays cater to barges and fishing boats that transport goods and foodstuffs to and from the countryside, making it essential to the city’s internal economy.
Adjoining Old Dock is Petty Gate, a heavily fortified district named for its smaller southeastern gate. This working-class area is home to laborers and craftspeople, with a focus on small-scale industries and informal markets. The streets here are crowded, and the district often feels overshadowed by the larger industries of the city, though its residents take pride in their contribution to Olbrint’s economy.
Rising above the southeastern corner of the city is Mallins Hill, a peaceful middle-class district built on a low hill overlooking the river. A spacious public park crowns the hill, offering residents a place for relaxation and recreation. The district’s tidy homes and calm streets attract professionals and merchants who seek respite from the busier parts of the city.
Finally, at the heart of the eastern bank lies Eastbank, a sprawling district marked by poverty and crime but vital to Olbrint’s shipbuilding industry. Two major shipyards dominate the waterfront here, producing the city’s largest and most prestigious vessels. The district’s proximity to Westharbour, connected by the Piraga Bridges, ensures a steady supply of timber, labor, and other materials for these shipyards. Despite its challenges, Eastbank remains a critical part of the city’s economy, where ambition and industry thrive amid hardship.
At the center of the river, Piraga Island serves as a key connection between the western and eastern banks. Though not a district in its own right, the Piraga Bridges that span the island are engineering marvels, high enough to allow even the tallest ships to pass beneath. These bridges symbolize the unity and ingenuity that drive Olbrint’s success as a maritime city.

City Infrastructure

Olbrint’s infrastructure is shaped by its role as a major port and shipbuilding hub, where the flow of goods, people, and raw materials is vital to its success. The Piraga Bridges, two towering stone structures connecting Westharbour and Eastbank via Piraga Island, are marvels of engineering. Built with high arches to allow tall sailing ships to pass beneath, these bridges symbolize the city’s maritime ingenuity. The smaller Fox Bridge, upstream near Northgate, connects the western and eastern sides of the river but is primarily used by local traffic.
The city’s two harbours are its lifeblood. Westharbour, with its deepwater quays and spacious pools, serves ocean-going vessels and anchors Olbrint’s shipbuilding industry. It handles large-scale trade, timber imports, and the construction of prestigious ships. By contrast, the Old Dock on the eastern bank caters to river barges and fishing boats, playing a key role in the city’s internal trade and food supply. Together, these harbours form the backbone of Olbrint’s economy.
Water is drawn from the River Olba and supplemented by wells and cisterns scattered throughout the city. Wealthier districts like Castle and Mallins Hill enjoy rudimentary sewer systems that drain waste into the river, reducing the risk of disease. However, in poorer areas such as Eastbank and Petty Gate, open channels serve as makeshift drains, often leading to sanitation issues and periodic outbreaks of illness. Despite these challenges, the city’s layout facilitates the efficient movement of goods and people, with wide thoroughfares leading to key districts and gates.

Architectural Style

Olbrint’s architecture is a reflection of its maritime heritage, natural resources, and social hierarchy. In wealthier districts such as Castle and Gallows Field, buildings are constructed from locally quarried limestone, with intricate carvings and decorative cornices adorning their facades. Roofs are tiled in warm shades of red and brown, giving these neighbourhoods a stately and cohesive appearance. Streets are broad and lined with ornamental trees, enhancing the districts’ sense of refinement and stability.
In contrast, districts like Eastbank and Woodgate feature timber-framed structures with plastered walls. These homes and workshops are utilitarian in design, emphasizing function over form. The heavy use of timber is particularly noticeable in Westharbour and Northgate, where shipyards and carpentry shops dominate the landscape, reflecting the city’s shipbuilding focus.
Public buildings and temples stand apart with their grandeur and artistry. The Great Temple of Jires, located in the Castle District, features tall columns, sweeping arches, and elaborate mosaics that depict maritime and religious themes. Monuments like the King’s Arch and statues of legendary shipwrights celebrate Olbrint’s cultural and historical significance within the Realm of Forbin. These landmarks serve as focal points in the city’s public squares, adding layers of character to its bustling districts.
Throughout Olbrint, narrow streets and tightly packed neighborhoods give way to open squares, marketplaces, and parks. This rhythm of density and openness reflects the city’s dynamic character, where the vibrant energy of districts like King’s Arch contrasts with the tranquil green spaces of Mallins Hill. The cohesive use of red tiles, limestone, and timber ties the city together visually, even as its districts showcase their own unique personalities.

Landmarks and key locations

• Olbrint Castle: Located in the Castle district, this imposing fortress is the seat of power for Lord Guardian Rayna Tharnesta. Built atop a low hill overlooking the River Olba and Westharbour, the castle is a mix of defensive architecture and administrative function. Its towering walls house the lord's court, administrative offices, and an armory, while its central keep provides commanding views of the city and surrounding lands.
• Great Temple of Jires: Standing prominently in the Castle district, this temple is a spiritual center for sailors and shipbuilders. Its vaulted ceilings, adorned with mosaics depicting ocean waves and constellations, draw worshippers seeking Jires’s blessings for safe voyages and bountiful catches. The temple bell, rung before every major ship launch, is a cherished tradition of the city.
• King’s Arch: Dominating the marketplace in the King’s Arch district, this monumental arch commemorates Olbrint’s vital role in Forbin’s maritime defence in its wars against the Thalissian Empire. Carvings along the arch depict ships battling stormy seas and naval victories. The square around the arch is the city’s largest marketplace, bustling with merchants and goods from across the archipelago.
• King’s Market: Found in the King’s Arch district, this sprawling marketplace is the economic heart of Olbrint. Merchants sell everything from fresh produce and textiles to shipbuilding supplies and exotic wares from the Seynan Islands. The market buzzes with activity, especially on festival days.
• The Piraga Bridges: These twin stone bridges connect the Westharbour and Eastbank districts via Piraga Island. Built with tall arches to allow passage of large sailing ships, the bridges are both practical and decorative, with carved reliefs celebrating Olbrint’s shipbuilding heritage. Lanterns line the pathways, illuminating the river below at night.
• The Shipwrights’ Guildhall: Situated in the Westharbour district, this grand structure is the heart of Olbrint’s shipbuilding industry. The guildhall serves as a meeting place for master shipwrights, a training center for apprentices, and a repository for naval blueprints and maritime lore. A statue of a shipwright holding a hammer and compass stands before the entrance, symbolizing the guild’s importance to the city.
• Galdeen's Bathhouse is a subterranean bathhouse in the King's Arch district. It is popular with local merchants and traders.
• Mallins Park: Perched atop Mallins Hill, this tranquil public park provides a respite from the city’s bustling activity. Its manicured gardens, shaded groves, and central fountain make it a favorite spot for residents to relax. The park is also home to the annual Festival of Sails, where decorated ships are paraded along the River Olba.
• The Old Dock: Nestled in the Old Dock district, this harbor caters primarily to river traffic. Its smaller quays handle barges laden with timber, grain, and fish, while the surrounding area hums with the activity of cooperages, netmakers, and small workshops. Despite its importance, the district is notorious for its rowdy taverns and criminal activity.
• Olbrint Academy: Located in the Foxbridge district, this prestigious institution educates the children of Olbrint’s wealthier citizens in navigation, mathematics, and engineering. The academy’s library is renowned for its maritime charts and treatises on shipbuilding, attracting scholars from across Forbin.
• Gallows Field: A verdant open area in the Gallows Field district, this space was once used for public executions but has since been repurposed as a ceremonial site for military parades and civic celebrations. A somber memorial near its center honors those who died defending Olbrint during the War of Salvation.
• The Woodgate Yards: This industrial area in the Woodgate district is home to Olbrint’s timber yards and sawmills. Logs from the Southwood and beyond are processed here before being sent to the shipyards or exported. The air is filled with the scent of fresh-cut wood, and the rhythmic sound of saws echoes throughout the district.
• The Lighthouse of Westharbour: Situated at the entrance to Westharbour, this tall stone lighthouse guides ships into Olbrint’s primary harbor. Its beacon, powered by a great oil lantern and polished mirrors, is visible far out to sea, ensuring safe passage for vessels navigating the southern coast.
• The Petty Gate: Located in the Petty Gate district, this modest gate opens onto the road leading to coastal villages east of the city. Its surroundings are bustling with carts and traders carrying goods to and from the countryside. The gatehouse also serves as a checkpoint for those entering the city.
• The Watchtower of Foxbridge: Overlooking the Fox Bridge and the river beyond from the eastern bank, this small but strategic tower serves as both a defensive structure and a lookout post. It is manned day and night by a small garrison responsible for monitoring river traffic and potential threats.
• Eastbank Shipyards: Sprawling across much of the Eastbank district, these shipyards are the lifeblood of Olbrint’s shipbuilding industry. Timber, tar, and other materials are transported here to be transformed into Forbin’s finest vessels. The rhythmic clanging of hammers and the sight of ships under construction dominate the district.
• The Carver’s Steps: A steep, narrow staircase carved into the rocky climb up Mallins Hill, these steps are adorned with reliefs depicting legendary maritime figures. The steps connect Eastbank to the tranquil park above, making them both a practical route and a celebrated landmark.

Transport

Roads lead north to Holdras (via Pudras) and northwest to Gilrimmon and the western towns.

Demographics

Population

Olbrint has a total population of approximately 42,200.

Wealth and class

Education

Economy

The surrounding lands are home to many sheep farms and vinyards, while the woodlands to the west provide timber for the city's shipbuilding industry.

Key industries

Olbrint is the main shipbuilding town in the Realm of Forbin.
This town produces the following goods:

• Ships
• Timber (oak, olive, elm, pine, laurel, acacia)
• Charcoal
• Oil
• Tallow and fats
• Grains, cereals, and pulses
• Fish
• Wine
• Salt
• Pottery and ceramics
• Weapons and armour
• Woven fabrics and silks
• Dyes, inks, and paints (from acacia resin)

Trade

Any local timber not used in the shipbuilding ndustry is generally sold south to the Seynan Islands. Olbrint is the main trading point for the islands.

Key imports

Key exports

Culture

Notable people

Type

City

Population

42200

Location under

Great Forbin

Owning Organization

Realm of Forbin