The only settlement on
The Freeisles large enough to be considered a city is
Hightide, the stronghold of the Sea Tribes and the seat of their Pirate Kings and Queens. It is built on the south-western shore of
Tyrland, the second largest of the islands, where the slopes of the
Misty Mountains meet the ocean of
Mare Ardere.
On the highest point of the city rises the mighty
Castle of Tides, the royal fortress from where the pirate fleet is commanded. The castle's dungeons extend through an extensive cave system all the way to the sea level, where prisoners are kept in underwater cages.
The city proper spreads downhill towards the harbor, where a peculiar sea hag Skylla Wishbone keeps the grimy
Laid-Back Bream Inn (1 silver/night). The whole establishment reeks of the fish she smokes for supper. Despite the rumors, Skylla swears she has left her witch days behind and won't curse her guests - unless they forgo paying.
Some distance away from the harbor stands the extravagant
Catfish Casino (2 gold/night), run by a tuxedo-furred tabaxi called Libretto. Above the pillared entrance is a huge gilded sign depicting a catfish with twirled whiskers. Libretto runs all kinds of games in the casino, and attracts all kinds of clientele. The barkeep Ladonis, a handsome merman with flowing hair, also attracts attention with his magical drinks and dashing looks.
Many trade barges from all around the islands visit Hightide - mostly to pay their protection money in order not to get pillaged by the pirates. The merchants gather at the
Seaking Square under the statue of the first Pirate King every day to sell their wares.
Near the square is also
Kutzco's Forge, where the orcish smith hailing from Barambu Island sells weapons and armor. His specialty is armor that allows one to float in water.
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