Brionne is sometimes called the City of Thieves - such is the degree of lawlessness - where over half the inhabitants earn their livelihoods directly from the proceeds of crime, and the remainder are supported by its proceeds in some manner. Even the Governor and the local militia are openly involved. The city sprawls upon the north bank of the river Brienne, its quays offering unquestioned refuge to sea-going vessels, whatever their purpose. Pirates and smugglers regard Brionne as a safe-port, where they will suffer no interference so long as they are mindful not to come into open conflict with the Governor's men. The Governor himself has grown fat operating his personal fleet of smugglers, and by imposing taxes on harbouring ships and warehouses. In return for their donation to the city coffers, contributors are left to their own devices, and wharfside warehouses are crammed with loot obtained in every conceivable manner.