Parravon is not especially large by Bretonnian standards, and is still seen as rather backwards and provincial by the inhabitants of Guisoreux and the Empire. However, it is slowly growing in size and sophistication, becoming a city in every sense of the word, good and bad.

The current governor of the city is Armand de Coquerone, Duc de Parravon, who is linked to the shadowy Lefevre family of Bourgon. Coquerone is a rather astute politician, but is still hampered by friction with the populace, partly over his family connections. Governor Coquerone rules the city in uneasy coalition with the council of leading landowners, clerics and merchants, many of whom openly flaunt the governor's unwelcome orders.

    Situated in the shadow of the Grey Mountains two days south of Axe-Bite Pass, Parravon has always been a key stronghold on Bretonnia's mountain border, and in its time has shrugged off several Imperial attacks; the city's location below the cliffs makes the task of any attacking army exceedingly difficult. The nerve centre of the border defences is the Chateau Blanc, a large fortress which commands the cliffs above the city and is linked to many other forts and outposts all along the frontier; it is commanded by Captain Frambaud Lande.    

Parravon's developing trade and infrastructure have altered the once-tranquil provincial town substantially, and it is being affected for the first time by the real violence and unrest that comes with a large population. Particular sources of trouble are the so-called 'Blackteeth', the print workers of the city who have formed a powerful unofficial guild; and the Imperial community of exiles and immigrants. There is much resentment of these foreigners felt by natives of Parravon. Despite these difficulties, Parravon has a long way to go before it becomes so troubled as Guisoreux or Brionne.

    Much trade coming from the Empire passes through Parravon, and there are regular barges to Guisoreux.  Local produce is still predominantly agricultural, albeit of high quality, but the city has also gained a reputation for its production of printed books: Parravon is second only to Guisoreux in the scale of its printing trade, which is spurred on by the presence of many exiled Imperial printers and agitators.