¶ Notes
¶ Key Figures:
- Idressia Henderthane: Lord Mayor of Ostenso
- Admiral Rania Laroung: Commandant of Ironquay
¶ Ostenso: The Naval Heart of Cheliax
¶ Overview
Ostenso, the bustling seaport and capital of the Archduchy of Sirmium, is the easternmost city in Cheliax. Located on Cape Erebus, Ostenso faces Andoran across the Inner Sea. Renowned for its grand docks and extensive shipyards, Ostenso serves as the home port of the Chelish navy, one of the largest and most formidable naval forces in the region.
¶ Geography and Layout
- Location: Ostenso is situated on Cape Erebus, providing a strategic vantage point over the Inner Sea. The city has a large, sheltered harbor protected by the Custodisce Break, a series of enormous stone pillars that extend half a mile into the sea.
- Urban Design: Nearly a quarter of Ostenso is built over the water, reflecting its maritime focus. The city's layout includes a mix of land and aquatic structures, with the sea playing a central role in its daily life and economy.
¶ Key Features
- Naval Base: Ostenso is the headquarters of the Chelish navy, which trains elite officers and maintains a large standing fleet. This naval presence significantly influences the city's atmosphere, contributing to its lively and sometimes rowdy environment.
- Ironquay: Known as the First Imperial Naval War Academy, Ironquay occupies a significant portion of Ostenso and produces the most skilled naval officers in the Chelish armada. Rumors suggest a secret division under Ironquay developing unconventional techniques, possibly involving psychic powers.
- Aspis Building: The headquarters of the notorious Aspis Consortium, this towering structure is a hub for regional trade operations, enhancing the city's economic importance.
- Slave Trade: Slavery is rampant in Ostenso, with the courts making slaves of debtors, malcontents, and criminals. Despite its proximity to abolitionist Andoran, a vibrant and secretive anti-slavery network operates within the city.
¶ Governance and Law
- Government: Ostenso is governed by notable figures such as Duxotar Harbry Keveldian, Harbormaster Lothera Cothos, Ironquay Commandant Admiral Rania Laroung, and Lord-Mayor Idressia Henderthane. The city's legal and social structures are heavily influenced by its naval focus and proximity to the sea.
- Demographics: Ostenso has a population of approximately 14,200, consisting mostly of humans, with significant minorities of halflings, tieflings, and other races.
¶ Economy and Trade
- Trade Hub: Ostenso maintains vibrant trade relationships with several nations across the Inner Sea. It handles a large volume of trade with Absalom due to fewer restrictions compared to other Chelish port cities. The city has seen a steady flow of Osirian artifacts since 4707 AR.
- Commodities: Ostenso is a major entry point for silks, spices, and other luxuries from Qadira, making it a key economic hub. Its numerous warehouses, guild offices, and banks support this extensive trade network.
¶ Culture and Society
- Maritime Focus: The sea dominates life in Ostenso, with a significant portion of the population involved in maritime work or trade. The term "dirtwalker" is used derogatorily for those whose lives are not connected to the sea.
- Rowdy Atmosphere: The city's permanent population is influenced by the boisterous and brawling attitude of sailors on leave. Ostenso's underground fighting pits and lively brothels are well-known, drawing crowds from all social classes and contributing to the city's wild reputation.
¶ Strategic Importance
- Military Vigilance: Ostenso's strategic location near Andoran, a key adversary, necessitates constant military vigilance. The Chelish navy's presence ensures that the city is always prepared for potential conflict, maintaining patrols and readiness to launch attacks if provoked.
¶ Summary
Ostenso is a vibrant and strategically vital city in Cheliax, characterized by its grand naval facilities, extensive trade networks, and lively maritime culture. It stands as a testament to Cheliax's naval power and economic prowess, while also reflecting the complexities and tensions of its regional politics and social structures.