Any who travel from the east to The Republic Kingdom of Athea must enter its preeminent port city.
Set in two “stages” the City of Dunport offers whatever a traveler might need. Whether it’s the markets, the taverns, or the inns of the “Lower Port” or the bathhouses, theaters, or Portskeep itself in “Upper Port,” both common tourists and noble guests leave satisfied. The city hugs the shoreline and is protected from assault on land via a large exterior wall. Portskeep is built into this wall and allows for a fortified defense against any from within.
Portskeep and Upper Port
Surrounded by a 30ft deep earthen moat on 3 sides- every side except the coastline side, which sits atop a cliff- the keep straddles the exterior wall. The moat is dug outside the city walls as well as in. When The Republic Kingdom first seceded from the Empire, enemies were more likely to come from within Athea than without. Dunport was a key cog in the Empire’s machine and when they lost it they also lost support from many of their allies to the east. Dunport is the busiest port city within the eastern half of the old Empire (what is now Athea) when it was seized the tides of the war changed.
If you look closely on a map of Athea you’ll see that one of its largest rivers, Toris River, flows south directly into Dunport. A small river gate allows for resources to enter Upper Port easily and efficiently. Namely from one of Athea’s wealthiest land holders, Lord Robert Cunningham. The Cunningham family played a pivotal role is helping the first Ennead seize control of the city.
Lower Port
Dunport, namely Lower Port, sits at the bottom of and runs along, a steep hill that rests a short distance from the sea known as The Blue Expanse. Most of the city’s infrastructure is built on top of the cliffs that over look the lower level and the Expanse.
3 long docks sit near the main entrance to the city, with others spread out along the coast it controls. Here is where any and all trade from the east- which places like The Kingdom of Edhel, the Islands of Kavana, and the Mogian Empire make up the bulk of- takes place. It is easy to understand why Dunport is considered one of the, if not the, most prized possession of the Ennead and The Republic Kingdom. It was built long ago with the intention of impressing foreigners who would never travel far enough to see Dobash Province, the seat of the Empire. It’s reputation and location make it one of the most active port cities in the world, no matter who holds it.