Pontis
Principality, with a loose hegemony over 3 client cities.
Location: On the island of Altis, commanding an excellent bay on the Sea of Tigal, just east of a strait leading into the larger Amphithael
Population: rank 8 (of 10)
Name Derived From: Greek word for ‘sea’, Latin word for ‘bridge’
Model: Kinda Venice, kinda Athens.
Flavor Text:

Pontis is the closest thing to a major power the region can boast of, not because of its area of influence (the Capel Merchants League would get the nod here) or because of its military power or population, or even the magic Academy that operates here. Pontis is, quite simply, the largest port and most important trade city between the north coast cities on the Somaris mainland and the Old Capital. Everything, from commodities to finished goods to contraband makes its way through the warehouses and wharves (or back alleys and black markets) of Pontis.

Pontis has only one major ally: Avensis, ruled by the cousin of the Prince of Pontis, though Avensis is hardly a help militarily (it isn’t even on the same island). Two other seaports along the strategic trade route, Demos and Scala, have been pulled into the Pontesian sphere of influence, though these are not allies, being subject to involuntary ‘trade agreements’. Pontis essentially pays these cities to keep their harbors closed and warehouses empty, outside of small fishing fleets. The enterprising merchants of Demos, restricted from trading by ship, are a common sight on the roads of Altis, with several guilds running long trains of wagons (and hiring mercenaries, both for protection and ‘Protection’). The Teamsters of the Dem may soon corner the market on the agricultural trade of the island, which might give them the leverage they need to renegotiate their relationship with Pontis. Scala is mounting a different resistance, pushing the limits of what a “small” fishing boat is and resorting to (or perhaps, gleefully embracing) piracy.

Pontis, as a large trade and cultural center, is home to one of the major schools of magic, naturally.