Seventy miles southwest along the treacherous coastal roads, where the coastline turns violent and the waters churn with legendary fury, there rises a city that defies the expectations of its master. Stormhaven Port has grown into a major secondary hub of commerce and civilization, rivaling Fort Valiance itself in population and ambition if not yet in political power. Nearly three thousand souls call this place home, and their number grows yearly.

Fort Valiance maintains a "diplomatic garrison" — a military force officially protecting merchant interests but in reality serving as a constant reminder of who holds true power. Commanders rotate regularly to prevent local loyalties. The soldiers are professional and largely restrained, but resentment of their presence simmers constantly.