Starwood Ranch

Originally established as a horse ranch, Starwood Ranch has grown into a dual-purpose retreat: an elite horse-breeding and training facility and a summer camp exclusively for twins of all ages. It provides a peaceful, grounded experience rooted in nature, horsemanship, and emotional bonding. The camp element was introduced by Ezra Hope in 1975 IE, and has since become a nationally respected program for twin development and wellness, winning several awards.

The ranch spans several acres of rolling pastureland, woods, and streams. Buildings are rectangular or L-shaped, constructed with stained pine logs, stone chimneys, and wide porches. Interiors use polished hardwood floors, high open-beam ceilings, and large windows that flood rooms with natural light. Earth tones dominate the palette: forest green, copper brown, and off-white.

Main access points include:

• A gravel drive from the north gate
• Wooden side gates leading to riding trails
• Locked equipment barn doors
• Windowed entrances to main lodge and cabins. All windows are reinforced but designed to pen for airflow. Front doors are solid oak with iron latches.

Guests entering the main house are greeted by:

• The scent of leather, cedarwood, and home-cooked meals
• Warm lighting from rustic lanterns and sconces
• The crackle of a fireplace or the cheerful clatter of dinnerware
• Horses neighing in the background, birdsong, and the occasional laughter of children

Ezra Hope, the current ranch owner and camp director

A small team of stable hands, counselors, cooks, and trainers

Approximately two dozen horses at any given time

Summer campers, always arriving in pairs (twins)

A few cats and one notably intelligent Starwhisper Thrush who has lived on the property for over a decade.

Riding tack, saddles, bridles, grooming kits

Rustic wooden bunk beds and patchwork quilts in the cabins

A trophy wall in the main lodge, featuring awards for horse training and camp programming

Toolsheds, first-aid kits, lanterns, and muscial instruments for evening programs

Decorative hand-carved twin totems in front of each camper cabin

Hope family heirlooms in the main office

Journals and lesson logs from every summer camp session

A ceremonial riding saddle rumored to enchanted for safe journeys

A small meteorite embedded in the ranch's hearth, a gift from a past camper whose family were star-mappers.

Hidden foxholes and uneven trail paths (clearly marked)

Star Copse emits low-level arcane resonance. It does not harm, but affects electronic equipment

An uncanny phenomenon: twins visiting the camp often report unusually vivid dreams and intuitive connections with each other during their stay.

Horses trained here exhibit higher-than-average empathy and intelligence.

Since 1970 IE:

• Cabins, stables, and the Skyfire Arena (a large outdoor equestrian training ring) were added
• Trail systems extended
• Solar panels installed discreetly on the barn roofs

Blending classic rural Meshian homestead style with natural harmony, the architecture uses:

• Pine logs, sandstone accents, and slate roofing
• Wide covered porches with hand-hewn beams
• Decorative symbols of twin unity (mirrored motifs, paired stars, interwoven vines)
• Structures emphasize sustainability, simplicity, and emotional warmth.

Wooden perimeter fencing (12 ft) with surveillance runes hidden in fence posts

Trained dogs for security and alerting

Discreet emergency protocols known only to staff

A central bell tower used to signal emergencies or call in lost campers

Starwood Ranch was established by the Hope family in 1696 AR. They quickly became known for the excellent horses they bred, as well as for training horses and being able to tend to the neglected. In 1970 IE, Erza Hope took over the family business. After careful consideration she decided to expand its offerings by establishing a summer camp for twins. She opened this in 1975 IE. The camp quickly gained popularity, attracting children from far and wide who sought adventure and camaraderie amidst the tranquil beauty of the area. Over the years, Starwood Ranch has become a beloved institution, cherished by all who have had the privilege of calling it home, even if just for a summer. The summer camp has won awards.

Despite growing interest from the Principality of Meshia, the Hope family has kept ownership fiercely independent. Several unexplained events, believed to involve Ezra's twin sister, have led to increased scrutiny, especially involving the Star Copse.

Open houses during festival season

Horse riding exhibitions

Short-term retreats for twins

Campers stay in rustic cabins during summer. Parents often lodge in nearby towns, though guest rooms are available for emergencies. Locals benefit from seasonal employment, craft sales, and horse rental programs. The ranch has becdome a symbol of unity, healing, and heritage across the region.