This thread is focused on inviting settlers to lay down their roots in the County of Raenhold - further information about joining the duchy of the Haverlands can be found here.
For information on how to join, jump to the bottom of the post!
As the ancestral seat of House Farrow, the County of Raenhold has enjoyed a long history of economic prosperity through trade. Renowned for the beauty of its lands and the warmth of its people, the region is considered a destination for all walks of life. Dominant in the agricultural trade, the county enjoys a balance between respect for nature and profiting from its resources. Raenhold has seen little in the way of war since its involvement in the Dawn Rebellion, well defended by the loyal Raenhold Watch. The county will continue to develop its thriving economy under the even-handed leadership of Duncan Farrow, a direct descendant of Aewyn Farrow, among the first settlers of the region.
A ranger travels down a rarely trodden path in the county outerlands
Covering a considerable parcel of land in the Haverlands, the county prizes itself for the undeniable natural beauty of its location, deep forests effortlessly blending into sprawling fields. The diversity of the landscape is essential to the county’s charm; everything is connected in Raenhold, fresh water streams like veins to a greater living body.
Expect a deciduous, temperate climate that provides the perfect ingredients for a thriving biome. Home to an extensive range of plant species, you can also expect to see a myriad of different wild creatures – alongside those domesticated to support the thriving economy.
The County of Raenhold is already brimming with engaging locations ready to be explored. We’re always looking for new towns and Baronies to fill our generous lands!
Covering a broad area of the county, the Erewood holds a special significance to the people of Raenhold. Strong ties to the folklore and annals of history have risen the forest to a mythical status, long speculated to be the namesake of the county itself. The common-folk have long maintained that the forest is magical and somehow sentient, the wind through the trees believed to be the plants whispering to each other. Staple tales told to children include Garrod the Ghastly, a murderous, deranged madman living deep in the heart of the Erewood, and the story of Sprout, an immortal otter-bear known to guide lost travellers safely through the overgrowth.
Originally covering almost the entire region at the time of first settlement by Mann, the Erewood faced initial devastation at the hands of the antagonistic House Haverly. In an attempt to smoke out supporters of House Farrow after it first came to the region, large swathes of the forest were set alight, left to burn out on its own accord. The ashes resulting from the blaze proved an incredibly effective fertilizer for the scorched soil, directly linked to the location’s current dominance in agriculture.
The forest now enjoys conservation from the aristocracy of the land, its ecological value beyond simple recognition. Much of the county’s logging industry is focused on regeneration, ensuring that future generations are secured right to enjoy the mysticism of the woodland. Scholars and mystics are inexplicably known to frequent the location – perhaps there’s merit to the tales, after all?
With a rich and lengthy history, Hearth is set aside from the crowd for its involvement in the development of the Haverlands. It has served as the seat of House Farrow, the current rulers of the county, for as long as the noble family has existed. While Hearth has seen countless battles for control of its people, it has never fallen to the hands of a person born outside of the duchy. The Raenhold Watch is headquartered here, offering unparalleled defence for all residents.
Primarily a trade centre, the location is frequented by wealthy and aspiring merchants looking to rise to greatness. Curiosities from foreign lands are abundant in the market, offering almost any trinket the mind could dream up – “if you can’t find it in the square, it simply doesn’t exist.” Many a trader has made their fortune entirely within the walls of Hearth.
Nestled amongst vast farmlands, the city is well known for its agricultural exports, namely wheat and other grains. Farmers in search of greatness can find no better home than the outskirts of Hearth. The Duke insists upon heavy investment into development of techniques to increase yields, hasten growth and guarantee quality of the harvest.
"Curiosities from foreign lands are abundant in the market..."
Raenhold is a home for members of the community who seek wealth and prosperity without blood on their hands. The protection of your assets is guaranteed through a loyal, capable local watch that is dedicated to the defence of the county and her citizens. Strong ties to the Kingdom of Ashland and the nobility of the Haverlands provide ample possibility for residents to get involved in the realm. Members of the county enjoy participation in active development of its lore, and are encouraged to get involved.
No specific roles are mentioned in this post, simply due to the fact that there are so many aspects of the county to get behind. We operate on a merit system, so highest positions in governance will be bestowed upon the most active, highest value members of Raenhold.
We seek villagers from all walks of life, Barons of noble intent and mayors of great trade towns and villages to join Count Duncan Farrow in building what may be the greatest agrarian county in all of Elyria. We will have both a strong focus on quality RP, and successful in-game management of resources for trade and crafting.
If you are a pledged Count and share similar interests, you may well be a perfect fit for our duchy, the Haverlands.
Feel free to send me a private message registering your interest, or talk to me directly on our Discord server!