Pirate Lords
The Pirate Lords govern Freeport.
Government
Freeport was formerly governed by a single individual. That office gradually became a figurehead position before disappearing, leaving government in the hands of the Pirate Lords.
Their authority includes the regulation of flights from the town’s Swooping Terror hangar. They can restrict private flights during emergencies and requisition mounts.
A large fortress above the hangar is associated with Pirate Lords authority. It is shaped almost like a ship, with cannons covering its approaches.
Standing and influence
Being a prominent pirate captain does not automatically make someone a Pirate Lords. Belladonna Velenza, for example, is an ambitious captain seeking to attain that standing.
Captains can also enjoy influence and favour with the Pirate Lords without being identified as members themselves. Grizzlebeard is one such well-connected figure.
Political support
A Pirate Lord’s position rests partly on crews, allies, and personal connections. Flight from the city or an apparent display of weakness does not automatically remove that support.
During Gustavo, Montañero Pirate Lord’s blockade, Belladonna Velenza judged that moving against absent Pirate Lords could turn their allies against her and allow rivals to portray her as destabilising Freeport during an emergency.