Halsworthy is a fortified port city and major economic hub of Astalore. Goods from across Antora and beyond flow through its streets and pack the holds of visiting ships. As Astalore’s largest port, the merchants of Halsworthy are prosperous and well connected, and travelers from across Antora come to do business in its robust and well stocked markets.
Halsworthy is one of the oldest cities in Antora, and is named in honor of Astalore’s founder - King Halragoth. The city has a rich history, and some of its sturdier buildings date back centuries. Some buildings, most notably the library, are even scarred by burns which don’t seem to correspond to any major recorded fire. As a result, some have suggested these structures predate nation of Astalore itself - though many scholars remain skeptical.
Halsworthy is the proud charge of Duke Henry Alban, who treasures it’s markets and walls above all his other titles and properties. It also serves as the headquarters of the Astalorian Navy - which unsurprisingly boasts many of Duke Alban’s own warships. As lord of Astalore’s largest port, Duke Alban commands influence and respect second only to the king.
By all accounts Duke Alban has managed the city well. Visiting merchants move their goods confidently, as the surrounding streets and waters are well patrolled, and the city’s harbor remains a sanctuary from the encroaching Pirate Coalition’s raids.
Despite this safety, and the relatively little street crime, there are whispers that agents of the Pirate Coalition have infiltrated the city and carefully monitor the coming and goings of ships. Many scoff at these rumors, but some have suggested the city’s drop in street crime is actually the doing of the coalition - managing any potential disruption to their operations.
Among his other holdings, Duke Alban controls a number of iron mines across the Shivering Spine, which he often ships to Halsworthy for use and distribution. As a result, the city’s smithies have expanded considerably in recent decades, and blacksmithing has become something of a local expertise.
Recent Events
May 535: A merchant ship departing Halsworthy was seized by the Breakneck Pirates. Following a brief investigation, they were confronted on the nearby Canton Island before surrendering the stolen cargo and defecting from the Pirate Coalition. Around this time, a Church transport ship was sunk just off shore. Ever since, the Church has kept armed warships stationed in Halsworthy.