Pilrock
Pilrock is a bustling lakeside city at the heart of Wescovia, known for its vibrant markets, skilled artisans, and scenic canals. Governed by a merchant’s council and protected by watchtowers and a professional garrison, Pilrock serves as a vital crossroads for inland trade. Its diverse population of humans, gnomes, dwarves, and halflings gives it a lively, welcoming character. Pilrock is especially famed for the Festival of Lanterns, when the lake comes alive with floating lights in a breathtaking annual spectacle.
Demographics
Nestled along the rocky shores of Wescovia's largest inland lake, Pilrock is a thriving lakeside city known for its natural beauty, strategic location, and lively mercantile spirit. Its population is diverse, with humans, gnomes, dwarves, and a small but influential halfling community making up most of its residents. Fisherfolk, merchants, craftspeople, and minor nobility coexist here, and the city boasts a notably larger artisan class than many others in Wescovia. Pilrock has a reputation for friendliness and open markets, making it a hub for travelers crossing the kingdom’s center.
Government
Pilrock is governed by a merchant's council, chaired by a Constable appointed by the king but advised heavily by the city's powerful trade guilds. Law is enforced by the Watchmen of the Lake, a peacekeeping force famous for their teal-and-silver uniforms. Taxes in Pilrock are moderate, with trade tariffs on lake and caravan goods forming the backbone of the city's economy.
Defences
Pilrock is protected by a stout curtain wall, punctuated by tall watchtowers. Though not built for prolonged sieges, the city's defensive strategy relies on controlling the lake and cutting off attackers’ supply routes. A small but professional garrison is stationed here, trained for naval and amphibious engagements.
Industry & Trade
Pilrock's lifeblood is fine freshwater fish, boats, pottery, leather goods, and handwoven textiles. It imports timber, metal, and exotic goods from the western ports. The city's central location makes it a critical stop for overland trade between western and eastern Wescovia.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure in Pilrock is well-developed, with stone-paved streets near the city center and well-maintained docks along the lakeside. Canals connect the inner parts of the city to the lake itself, facilitating the easy movement of goods. A few notable stone bridges arc gracefully over the canals, and the city boasts an impressive freshwater purification system, an innovation led by gnome engineers centuries ago.
History
Pilrock's history dates back to the early 900s, initially founded as a lakeside trading post. Over time, it grew into a fortified town and eventually a bustling city, its importance only increasing after the unification of Wescovia in 1024. Pilrock has maintained a reputation for neutrality and diplomacy, often serving as a meeting place for noble houses and guild leaders.
Tourism
Tourism thrives modestly in Pilrock. Visitors are drawn by the stunning lake views, vibrant marketplaces, and the renowned Festival of Lanterns, where hundreds of floating lights are released onto the lake in a dazzling nighttime celebration. Inns and guesthouses around the market square cater to traders, pilgrims, and artists seeking inspiration in Pilrock’s scenic beauty.
Founding Date
943
Population
35,000
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