Bitafor
| settlement name | duchy | district/province | type | population | founding year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitafor | Kirvan | — | town | 57,401 | 4482 |
Bitafor lies about two days west of the capital, Barforos, on the coast at the mouth of the Pikeborn. It lies on the eastern rim of Trader’s Bay, and is a major trade centre (both by road and ship). Bitafor is known as the hometown of the famous long-distance athlete Hannah Storm, who has a very large following particularly amongst members of the armed forces in Kalderesh. The town’s civic authority is Aisiah Gervasius assisted by Conj. Miglus Berry.
A surprisingly large number of warehouses are built around the harbour ward; goods are stored here for short- to long-term for transport elsewhere. Nycola Lander and Logus Munny operate two of the largest storage facilities.
Bitafor’s primary trade goods (in terms of value) are incenses, oils, resins, fine perfumes, jewellery, ornaments, glassware (raw and processed), and rare tobacco.
A small military contingent is located in the city, commanded by Chief Commandant Theodorus Woolard. Three temples serve the citizens of the town: to Oohm, Razim, and D’Aad. The most powerful ecclesiastical influence, however, is from the fane to Sahir, which is supported by many arcanists.
Two Great Guild Halls are found in town: the Guild of Clay & Stone Workers (Helyan Smith) and the Guild of Launderers (Maelania Coates). The Small Hall of the Guild of Stable Keepers (Androe Raynes) is also here. Other influential guilds are the Guild of Clerks & Scribes, Guild of Professionals, and Guild of Builders.
A legendary tale is that Bitafor’s streets are paved with gold and gems. This is true, in a manner: during one particularly spectacular spring festival, which the Bitafor Council hosts each year, Dylan Diamond was the surprise performer. To the delight of the entire city, Diamond – the most famous illusionist in the known world – put on a fantabulous performance. Part of this was the awesome illusion that the streets were studded with diamonds and gold nuggets. This illusion persisted for almost a year, during which a large number of innocent travellers and visitors to the town were thoroughly duped.
Lord Remi Tebald, the oldest son of the Duke of Barfor, is resident in Barforos. He is a gemner and art dealer of repute, and is also a skilled martial artist. Lord and Lady Tebald live in Tebald Manor, a palatial home overlooking the harbour. As a peer of the realm, and son of the Duke, he often receives elite guests. Chief amongst his supporters are the court conjurer Gayel Mayr, the warrior Haroldus Nutt and the much-loved gladiatorial champion Aeli Boots.
Also resident in the city is Viscount Emericus Gervasius, who is also a peer of the realm. Viscount Gervasius and his extended family live in Long House. They have multiple interests in agricultural concerns, owning large tracts of farmland outside the city. The Viscount’s son deals in hardware and related goods, and his oldest daughter operates a fleet of trading vessels out of Bitafor. The Viscount’s right-hand man is Grand Wizard Jyck Deelman, and he counts amongst his other allies Guild Master Aelisabeth Starr, Enchanter Hynroe Goldsmith and Master Bryn Sheerer.
The rivalry between the Viscount and Lord Remi Tebald is well known, and traders passing through the region have to choose their alliances carefully.