Lantide

Lantide is a coastal city-state on the eastern shore of the Lirra Sea, in the archipelago region of Valara. It functions as a regional trade hub with a diverse population of merchants, sailors, and craftsmen. The population is estimated at about 120,000.

The name Lantide derives from an ancient dialect meaning "light at the tide." The city's emblem features a lantern above a cresting wave.

Lantide is governed by a diarchic Tide Council with annual rotation between the Harbor Warden and the Lantern Speaker. It is advised by the Assembly of Merchants and a magistrate court. The constitution emphasizes free trade, non-aggression, and mutual defense within the archipelago.

The harbor handles trade, shipbuilding, and fisheries. Major exports include salted fish, rope, and pottery; imports include grain, timber, and metal goods. The local currency is the lant, subdivided into 100 vart.

Lantide was founded following the Treaty of Lirra and grew as a trading outpost. It endured sieges by rival powers in the medieval period and was rebuilt after the 1682 earthquake, resulting in the current harbor district.

Culturally, Lantide hosts a Lantern Festival at the solstice, with markets and street food surrounding the harbor. The city supports maritime apprenticeships, and Lantide University, founded in 1627, offers programs in navigation, engineering, and law.

Notable landmarks include the Lantern Gate, the Tide Market, and the Fleet Promenade. Ferries connect Lantide to neighboring islands, with limited tram service inside the harbor district.