Magister of the Port

A candidate must:

• Demonstrate significant experience in governance, maritime trade, naval logistics, or law
• Possess a clean and provable history of loyalty to the Duchy of Zhilos
• Be capable of commanding mixed civilian–military spaces
• Not currently hold allegiance to any foreign merchant company or guild

Oath of fealty to the Duke/Duchess.

Residency in Dovesport during tenure.

Financial transparency. Magisters must declare all foreign gifts or assets related to shipping.

The appointment ceremony, known as “The Binding of the Tide,” is held at Narrow Steps lighthouse. The incoming Magister:

1. Swears an oath before the ducal banner
2. Rings the harbor bell once for trade, once for law, once for the sea
3. Receives the Chain of the Port, symbol of offic

Moral expectations include:

• Upholding fair trade practices
• Protecting sailors and merchants under Dovesport’s banner
• Maintaining dignity, impartiality, and accountability
• Acting as the duchy’s voice in local affairs

The Magister of the Port is responsible for:

• Chairing the Magisterial Council
• Overseeing all port operations
• Regulating trade and tariffs
• Directing customs enforcement
• Coordinating with naval forces for coastal defense
• Approving shipyard expansions and dock construction
• Managing port-side emergency protocols during storms or disasters

Annual stipend paid directly by the Duchy of Zhilos

Private residence near the Port Council Hall

Priority access to naval transport

Authority to levy fines or grant trade exemptions

Significant local prestige and political influence

Chain of the Port: A heavy silver-and-blue chain worn during official duties

Seal of Dovesport: Used to authenticate trade decrees and maritime rulings

Optional ceremonial tricorn cap (traditionally blue with silver edging)

Proven corruption, particularly dealings with smugglers

Neglect of port safety resulting in loss of life

Treason or defiance of ducal command

Failure to maintain the neutrality required when arbitrating guild disputes

Dismissal is enacted by ducal decree, often delivered via naval envoy.

Since its creation in the 1700s AR, the title has been held by:

• Former navy captains
• Esteemed merchants
• Retired judges
• Even the occasional scholar specializing in maritime law

In Dovesport, the Magister of the Port is both respected and feared.

To sailors, they are the guardian of the harbor.

To merchants, the gatekeeper of prosperity.

To the Duchy of Zhilos, the trusted watcher of the coast.

Among ordinary townsfolk, the title is associated with stability—when the Magister is competent, the town thrives.

Maren Solwright, renowned for preventing a major smuggling war by brokering peace among rival merchant guilds.

Ilros Hane, who rebuilt most of The Docks after the Great Gale of 1883 AR.

Jessa Brightholm, the first to modernize port lighting using early electric lanterns.