Rivershire
Rivershire is a bustling trading town located along the Giant Tears River on the eastern border of Shatterbleak, serving as a key hub for merchants traveling between Swiftrun and Golden Cliff. Known for its vibrant market culture, the town offers a wide range of goods, from affordable, lower-quality items to rare, high-end merchandise. Ruled by Shervita the Maven, a powerful and compassionate leader, Rivershire thrives on commerce but is also home to hidden tensions, particularly with the secretive group known as The Honest Liars, who challenge Shervita’s authority.
Demographics
Primarily humans and half-elves, with smaller populations of dwarves and elves. The town’s diversity is tied to its status as a key trading post along the Giant Tears River, attracting traders from various regions.
Government
Rivershire is ruled by Shervita the Maven, a commanding and compassionate leader who rose to power after the death of her husband, Olsen. Her rule is strong but fair, though she faces opposition from a shadowy organization known as The Honest Liars, who seek to undermine her authority. Shervita’s government focuses on protecting the town’s economic interests and ensuring the safety of its people, particularly from outside threats and internal subversion.
Defences
The town is guarded by a modest force of mercenaries and local guards, many of whom are personally loyal to Shervita. These forces are tasked with maintaining order and protecting the docks and marketplace, while the River Wardens, a mercenary group, patrol the waterway for pirates or raiders. Despite its small size, Rivershire is well-protected, as Shervita ensures a well-armed presence to safeguard the town’s vital trade routes.
Industry & Trade
Trade is the lifeblood of Rivershire. The town’s position on the Giant Tears River makes it a convenient stop for merchants moving goods between Swiftrun and downstream towns. Rivershire specializes in affordable goods, although high-quality wares can be found if one is willing to pay a premium. The local fishing industry is also an essential part of the town’s economy, providing food for the population and for export.
Infrastructure
Rivershire’s infrastructure is centered around the Giant Tears River. The well-maintained riverfront and its piers serve as the main hub for trade and commerce. Narrow streets wind through the town, with the central marketplace standing as the heart of daily life. Simple yet functional homes and shops cluster around the market and river docks.
Districts
Market District: The bustling heart of Rivershire, where trade and commerce take place daily.
Riverfront District: The area around the docks where goods flow in and out of town.
Residential District: Modest homes for merchants, workers, and artisans.
Assets
Rivershire's main asset is its proximity to the Giant Tears River, making it a key point for goods moving between Swiftrun and other locations downstream. The river's flow supports a strong fishing industry, while the market square and docks handle most of the town's commerce.
Guilds and Factions
Rivershire Trader's Guild: The town’s merchant guild oversees trade and regulates market activity.
The River Wardens: A hired mercenary force that patrols the river to protect against piracy and ensure safe passage for traders.
The Honest Liars: A shadowy and manipulative organization seeking to undermine Shervita’s rule for their own hidden agendas.
History
Originally a modest fishing village, Rivershire expanded in 750 BGW into a thriving trading town due to its strategic position along the Giant Tears River. It became a key hub for merchants traveling between Swiftrun and golden Cliff, growing in importance over the centuries. Shervita the Maven’s rule began after the death of her husband, Olsen, and though she has secured the loyalty of most of the population, her reign is threatened by factions like The Honest Liars.
Points of interest
The Market Square: The bustling hub of town, where traders sell their wares daily.
The River Docks: The lifeblood of Rivershire, with piers and warehouses managing the flow of goods.
Shervita’s Manor: The residence of Shervita the Maven, a symbol of her rule and authority over Rivershire.
Architecture
The town's architecture is simple and functional, built primarily from timber and stone. The docks and market district are particularly well-constructed to handle the constant flow of goods and visitors. Modest homes and shops line the streets, while Shervita’s manor stands as the only notable grand structure, symbolizing her position as ruler.
Geography
Rivershire lies on the banks of the Giant Tears River, downstream from Swiftrun. The surrounding landscape is primarily flat, providing excellent land for roads and transport. To the east lies the border with Nunca, while the western part of town opens to more fertile lands.
Climate
The climate is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers. The river ensures that the town has a constant source of water, and frequent misty mornings give the town a cool, breezy atmosphere.
Natural Resources
The Giant Tears River is the main source of resources, providing both freshwater and fish. The surrounding flatlands support small-scale agriculture, while the river allows for trade with nearby towns.
Founding Date
750 BGW
Type
Large town
Population
2,500
Included Locations
Owner/Ruler
Additional Rulers/Owners
