valgest

Valgest is a fictional city-state in the fantasy world of Eldoria. Situated on the northern coast of the Valen Archipelago, it controls a major natural harbor that connects inland river trade with transocean routes.

The city occupies a raised limestone promontory with a windward harbor to the north and a walled old town to the south. The surrounding region is hilly woodland and quarry sites that feed the shipyards.

Valgest rose as a trading outpost in the early Middle Ages, gaining autonomy after a maritime treaty with neighboring realms in 1123. Its merchant dynasties built walls, citadel, and a guild-based administration. The 15th century marked its golden age through navigation and metalworking, though later centuries faced piracy and regional conflict.

Today Valgest is governed by the Grand Assembly, a bi-cameral body representing merchant guilds and resident households. Executive power rests in the Captain-Regent, who serves a five-year term and chairs the council of guild masters.

The population is about 120,000 residents. The economy centers on port commerce, shipbuilding, metalwork, and timber processing. The city maintains fleets for defense and trade.

Valgest's culture emphasizes maritime law, seamanship, and guild honor. The language is Valen, with common use of a ceremonial maritime oath. Landmarks include the Silver Docks, the Citadel of Beryl, and the Market Cliffs.