Lyare (pronounced lie-ARR-ay) is a small city within the Western Coast, located less than thirty miles along the coast from the nearest Tirionite colonial outpost in Nionegrast. Since Y9951* the city has been ruled by Sura Quis, a former tengu privateer whose eccentricities are matched only by his ego. After ousting the former ruler of the once-quiet port city, Quis rewrote Lyare's laws to make a system of geniocracy, or rule by the intelligent, to be the basis for the local government. Naturally, he claims himself to be the cleverest one around, and therefore all matters of government should fall to him.
Quis has cemented his rule with the support of a garrison of mercenaries paid by the Silver Falcon Company. Quis has unclear dealings with the Company - though they seem to be supporting and aiding his control of Lyare, it is unclear what they gain in turn.
Lyare is a minor port of call for merchant vessels sailing to and from the Western Coast. Most of the city's residents make a living from the sea, primarily through fishing or whaling.