tzgyr

Tzgyr is a coastal city-state in the western archipelago of the Shattered Seas in the fictional world of Eldara. It functions as a major maritime trade hub, connecting inland settlements with distant shores through its busy harbor and shipyards. The city is governed by the Drom, an elected council that meets in the stone chamber known as the Council Hall, with a magistrate serving as head of government. Population estimates place it around 320,000.

Geography and climate: The harbor is sheltered by two natural headlands and coralstone quays. The climate is subtropical, with a rainy season in late spring and warm, dry summers, conditions favorable to year-round seafaring and commerce.

History: Tzgyr traces its origins to 12th-century seafaring clans that settled on the bay. It gained formal city-state status in the 14th century and grew into a regional trading power through gold, textiles, and timber. In the 17th century, it navigated conflicts with inland kingdoms and formed enduring alliances; it remained autonomous after the regional treaties of Briand. In the contemporary era, Tzgyr expanded its port facilities and diversified into glassware and dyes.

Economy and culture: The economy centers on shipbuilding, fishing, dye processing, and glassware. The city hosts multilingual communities, with Eldari as a common language and Tzori and regional dialects spoken widely. Lantern Tide, a late-year festival, celebrates maritime heritage with lantern parades and market fairs.

Notable landmarks include the Tidewatch Lighthouse, a centuries-old beacon atop the northern headland; the Gossamer Market, a covered trading complex; and the Observatory of Winds, a research and navigation center. Tzgyr maintains a tradition of independent scholarship and artisan guilds that influence regional culture.