Duchy Carhyrst

The Duchy Carhyrst is a region filled with verdant forests, misty moors, and quiet marshlands nestled within the northern boundaries of The Realm of Irimond.   The Duchy, known for its damp, temperate climate and rolling, fog-draped hills, is enclosed by the ocean to the West, the Bleakshore, and the Scarstone Mountains to the East. The people of the duchy rely on several sources of livelihood: Rich soil for farming, fishing on the coast and the timber trade. Having access to the northlands as well as the dwarfen realms the duchy thrives on trade and it's honest and hard-working people are not unused to seeing a variety of races travelling through their towns. The people of Carhyrst, a mixture of humans, halflings, gnomes and dwarves, have learned to thrive in a land that is both beautiful and challenging, cultivating a culture steeped in rich folklore and ancient tradition. The duchy is ruled by Duke Ernold Carhyrst, one of King Aerric's oldest and closest friends, who is also fiercely loyal to the crown. Carhyrst's many villages and settlements operate with a degree of autonomy due to the remote and rugged terrain.                             Landmarks of Carhyrst     The Shimmerwood A sprawling forest that dominates the north of Carhyrst, the Shimmerwood is known for its unusual, bioluminescent flora. At dusk, the undergrowth and some trees emit a soft, green glow, giving the forest an ethereal, almost otherworldly appearance. The Shimmerwood is a sacred place to the region’s druids and rangers, who believe it houses ancient, benevolent spirits. The forest is home to rare herbs and plants that have powerful alchemical properties, but venturing too far into the Shimmerwood without a guide can be dangerous, as the forest is also inhabited by strange and magical creatures.   Gloammoor Gloammoor is a vast, fog-shrouded moorland in north-eastern Carhyrst. With its muddy plains, rugged hills, and meandering streams, Gloammoor is a place of haunting beauty. Legend tells of ancient battles fought upon its fields, and on certain nights, ghostly apparitions are said to appear under the full moon. Many halfling and gnome villages lie near the edges of the moor, their inhabitants well-versed in the land’s folklore. Despite its eerie reputation, the moor is home to valuable plants used in potions, especially those that ward against disease and nightmares.   The Singing Fens The Singing Fens are an expanse of marshes to the south of the Gloammoor, filled with reeds that emit a haunting, flute-like sound when wind passes through them. Mist hangs perpetually above the water, making the fens appear ghostly at dawn and dusk. Small islands dot the fens, some with shrines dedicated to spirits of water and nature. The fens are rich in medicinal herbs, and skilled herbalists frequently venture into the marshlands. However, there are rumors of hidden creatures within the mists—protectors of the ancient shrines who do not welcome intruders.     Mount Ashvale This craggy mountain peak towers over the northern borders of Carhyrst, marking the edge of the duchy. Known for its treacherous slopes and sharp peaks, Mount Ashvale is also home to veins of rare metals and crystals that draw dwarven miners and gnomish alchemists alike. However, the mountain is shrouded in mystery, as strange lights and eerie sounds are often observed at its peak. Local legend claims that an ancient dragon once resided in the mountain’s heart, its essence still lingering within the caverns and crevices. A few brave souls believe that the dragon’s spirit still guards its lair and protects a hidden treasure deep within.   The Silvervein River This broad, winding river runs from the base of Mount Ashvale down through Carhyrst, providing fertile soil and clean water to the villages it passes. Named for the silver-like sparkle of its water in the moonlight, the river is a vital resource, supporting the duchy’s agriculture and small fishing industry. It is also considered a magical conduit by the people, as they believe drinking its waters grants clarity of thought and even occasional glimpses of the future. At certain bends, the river is so clear that one can see rare, silver-colored fish, which are prized for their scales and rumored to have magical properties. Settlements of Carhyrst Carhyrst by the Sea Carhyrst by the Sea is a bustling coastal capital renowned for its skill in shipbuilding and woodworking, sitting on the rocky, mist-shrouded coastline of the Duchy Carhyrst. The city is a vital port for the Realm of Irimond as it serves as a gateway to both the icy northern reaches and the rest of the Realm. Its architecture reflects its maritime identity: buildings are constructed from hardy timber and weathered stone, fortified against fierce sea winds, with rooftops sloping sharply to prevent heavy snowfall from accumulating. Wooden carvings of maritime creatures adorn the eaves and facades, while the scent of pine, oak, and sea salt permeates the air. Tall watchtowers loom over the harbor, and ship masts can be seen stretching across the skyline, giving the impression of a forest of timber rising from the sea. Carhyrst by the Sea is a city of hardworking folk, its prosperity rooted in the timber, salt, and ocean. Though rugged and sometimes harsh, it is vibrant, with a resilience carved into its very wooden bones—a reflection of the people who build it, sail from it, and call it home.   Districts   Timberhall District (Industrial/Shipbuilding) The heart of Carhyrst’s shipbuilding industry, Timberhall is dominated by massive shipyards and sawmills. The docks extend far into the bay, lined with cranes, platforms, and bustling laborers hauling timber and other materials. Skilled carpenters, sawyers, and shipwrights work tirelessly, crafting vessels ranging from sturdy trade ships to sleek war galleys. The area echoes with the constant sounds of hammers, saws, and the rhythm of labor.

Main Trade Goods: Ships (especially hardy northern vessels), lumber, ship parts, pitch, and rope.

Infrastructure: Sawmills, shipyards, warehouses, wood treatment facilities, and carpentry workshops.

Driftmarket (Trade/Commerce) The commercial heart of Carhyrst, Driftmarket is a sprawling district where traders from the northern realms bring their goods to exchange. The main marketplace is filled with vendors selling everything from whale oil and furs to fine carved wares and smoked fish. Fishmongers and craftsmen set up open-air stalls, and the district is alive with shouts of negotiation. Caravans and trading ships alike bring goods here, with ample taverns and inns nearby for visiting merchants.

Main Trade Goods: Furs, whale oil, smoked fish, exotic goods from northern traders, carved goods, and tools.

Infrastructure: Market squares, taverns, storage houses, merchant guild halls, and docks for trade ships.

Stonegate (Residential/Administration) Named after the towering stone gate that marks its entrance, Stonegate houses the city’s wealthier residents and administrative buildings. Cobbled streets wind past grand timber-framed houses with ornate wooden eaves and tall chimneys. The seat of the local duke, Ernold Carhyrst, is here—a well-fortified manor that also serves as a town hall and administrative center. Well-kept gardens and a sense of order set this district apart.

Main Trade Goods: Leather goods, fine furniture, pottery.

Infrastructure: Duke’s manor, town hall, noble residences, high-end shops, gardens, a small armory.

Tidehollow (Lower-Class/Worker’s District) Tidehollow is home to Carhyrst’s laborers, from shipbuilders to fishermen, and occupies the lower end of the city where the land dips closer to the sea. It’s a crowded district, with narrow alleyways and modest homes built in close quarters, often incorporating wood reclaimed from old ships. Despite the hardship, Tidehollow is alive with the camaraderie of its residents, with small taverns and shrines dotting the area where locals gather.

Main Trade Goods: Fish, small handmade crafts, salvaged wood, iron tools.

Infrastructure: Modest homes, worker’s taverns, shrines, basic smithies, a small wharf for local fishermen.

Notable Inhabitants   Duke Ernold Carhyrst

Occupation: Duke and governor of Carhyrst-by-the-Sea.

Description: Duke Alvard is a middle-aged, pragmatic man with salt-and-pepper hair and a keen eye for diplomacy. He is one of King Aeric Ealdehearts oldest and closest friends and fiercely loyal to the Crown. But in his own city he is known for his close relationship with the shipbuilders, often overseeing construction projects himself to ensure quality. Despite his high station, he is approachable and spends significant time in the Timberhall district speaking with the workers.

Personality: Charismatic, pragmatic, with a genuine care for the city’s people, though he has a ruthless side when it comes to maintaining order and security in the harbor.

Old Hegda Wainwright

Occupation: Master Shipwright.

Description: Hegda is an elderly but sharp-witted shipwright who’s been crafting ships for over forty years. She is a fixture in the Timberhall District and renowned for her knowledge of both traditional and experimental ship designs. Although gruff and stubborn, her skills are unmatched, and she’s revered as a mentor by young carpenters.

Personality: Gruff, no-nonsense, deeply loyal to the workers and holds strong opinions on maritime matters. She is also fiercely protective of the shipyards.

  Jorin the Saltwise

Occupation: Fishmonger and unofficial Dockside Informant.

Description: Jorin is a wiry, middle-aged man with a friendly demeanor who runs a bustling fish stall in Driftmarket. Known to locals as “Saltwise” for his vast knowledge of local waters and maritime news, Jorin often trades information alongside his fresh catches. He’s rumored to have friends among the smugglers and can be a source of valuable intel on unusual port activities.

Personality: Sharp, talkative, and highly observant. Though helpful to those who gain his trust, he’s also discreet and cautious when it comes to revealing too much.

Mira Steelbloom

Occupation: Trader of Carved Goods and Exotic Woods.

Description: Mira is a young and ambitious merchant of fine wooden crafts and rare woods sourced from distant lands. Her shop, Steelbloom’s, is renowned for its exquisite carved figures and intricate furniture. Mira is well-traveled, having built connections with traders from the icy north, and is known for her savvy bargaining.

Personality: Charismatic, shrewd, with a strong sense of style. Mira is always on the lookout for new ventures and tends to look down on those she sees as lacking business acumen.

Oran Tidecaller

Occupation: Fisherman and Patron of Tidehollow.

Description: Oran is a burly, quiet man with a thick beard and a deep respect for the sea. Residing in Tidehollow, he is something of a local hero among the fisherfolk, leading efforts to improve conditions and ensure fair wages for their work. His family has fished these waters for generations, and he possesses a deep, almost mystical reverence for the ocean.

Personality: Stoic, compassionate, and respected by his peers. Oran avoids unnecessary conflict but fiercely protects his people and their rights, willing to confront even the duke if need be.

  Begembon's Vigil Begembon's Vigil is a fortified mountain settlement nestled against the steep, craggy slopes of the Scarstone Mountains. It’s a place of stone halls, echoing forges, and enduring traditions, originally founded by dwarven miners who found vast deposits of iron, copper, and rare minerals in the surrounding mountains. Named after Begembon Stonebrow, a legendary dwarven warrior and explorer who guarded the settlement in its earliest days, Begembon's Vigil is a testament to dwarven resilience and craftsmanship. A formidable wall of mountain rock and quarried stone surrounds it, and intricate stonework decorates every building, from sturdy dwellings to the grand library. Though dwarves dominate the population, gnomes and halflings contribute to its character, their unique ingenuity and curiosity blending seamlessly into dwarven life. Human traders pass through infrequently, but those who do are always welcomed—for a price. The dwarves here take great pride in their mining and metalworking legacy, creating not only functional tools but also ornate items coveted across Carhyrst. Begembon’s Vigil is a place steeped in dwarven pride, practicality, and a steadfast commitment to its heritage. The people here work hard, value resilience, and share a deep respect for their mountain and craft. Though life is not easy in this rugged terrain, the settlement is bound together by strong community ties and a respect for their forebears’ legacy. Whether crafting legendary weapons, preserving ancient texts, or simply sharing a hearty meal at the inn, the people of Begembon’s Vigil are fiercely proud of their mountain home.     Notable Establishments   The Hammered Anvil The largest forge in Begembon’s Vigil, The Hammered Anvil has been in continuous operation for over three centuries. This vast workshop produces weapons, armor, and fine metal goods with both dwarven durability and artistry. The sound of hammers against anvils is almost constant, reverberating through the stone streets.

Owner: Master Blacksmith Kadrin Ironthumb, a grizzled dwarven smith known for his meticulous attention to detail and his preference for rare metals. Kadrin takes great pride in his craft and considers every piece he makes to be a legacy.

Stonebrow Hall A grand hall built in honor of Begembon Stonebrow himself, Stonebrow Hall serves as a gathering place for town meetings, feasts, and celebrations. The interior is richly decorated with stone carvings, tapestries, and statues commemorating dwarven heroes and history. The hall also holds relics and old weapons from Begembon’s era, lending it the air of a museum.

Head Caretaker: Eldrik Stonewhisper, a stoic dwarf responsible for preserving the hall’s relics and organizing events. Known for his vast knowledge of dwarven history, Eldrik often tells tales of Begembon’s exploits to eager listeners.

The Emberbrew Inn The Emberbrew Inn is a beloved gathering place in Begembon’s Vigil, famed for its strong dwarven ale and cozy stone-hewn rooms. The inn’s stone hearth is a popular meeting point for dwarves, gnomes, and halflings alike, offering warmth and respite from the mountain winds. Above the hearth hangs a large iron tankard reputedly used by Begembon Stonebrow himself.

Innkeeper: Grilda Hearthmantle, a friendly but no-nonsense dwarven woman who runs the inn with her two gnomish assistants. Grilda has a remarkable memory for faces and stories and enjoys hearing tales from travelers, though she ensures rowdy patrons stay in line.

The Vault of Ages An ancient dwarven library and archive, the Vault of Ages houses centuries-old tomes and scrolls containing dwarven lore, mining records, metallurgical techniques, and forgotten knowledge. Deep within its stone halls, a restricted section is rumored to contain forbidden texts and arcane secrets. The Vault’s stone shelves and vaulted ceilings are works of art in themselves.

Head Archivist: Omdir Runemantle, an elderly dwarf with a long silver beard and keen, penetrating eyes. Omdir is protective of the Vault’s contents, and few gain access without his approval. He is known to have an encyclopedic knowledge of dwarven lore, though he rarely shares it without cause.

Boulderglow Bazaar The heart of commerce in Begembon’s Vigil, the Boulderglow Bazaar is a covered market where miners, crafters, and traders gather to exchange goods. From raw ores and crafted metal goods to gemstones and rare minerals, the Bazaar is a lively spot filled with the sounds of haggling and clinking coins. Halfling and gnome merchants are common here, and their colorful stalls contrast with the stoic dwarven architecture.

Market Overseer: Rurik Rubynose, a shrewd but fair dwarf who manages stall assignments and mediates disputes. Known for his exceptional bargaining skills, Rurik keeps the bazaar running smoothly and attracts traders from all over Carhyrst with his reputation for fair dealing.

Notable Inhabitants   Kadrin Ironthumb – Master Blacksmith of The Hammered Anvil

Description: Kadrin is a stocky, broad-shouldered dwarf with a meticulously groomed black beard streaked with gray. His hands bear countless scars from his years at the forge. Kadrin takes pride in his work and believes every piece should be perfect, even if it means working late into the night. Known to be gruff and reserved, he becomes almost poetic when discussing metals.

Role: As the town’s foremost blacksmith, Kadrin oversees the production of high-quality weapons and armor, ensuring Begembon’s Vigil remains respected for its craftsmanship.

Eldrik Stonewhisper – Caretaker of Stonebrow Hall

Description: A tall, wiry dwarf with a voice that can quiet even the rowdiest crowd, Eldrik has a presence that commands respect. His gray eyes are sharp, and his memory for stories is unparalleled. Although he’s proud of dwarven heritage, he’s a firm believer in preserving the future and often encourages the younger generation to study dwarven history.

Role: Eldrik not only preserves the hall but also acts as a storyteller and historian, reminding the people of Begembon’s Vigil of their roots and achievements.

Omdir Runemantle – Head Archivist of the Vault of Ages

Description: Omdir is an ancient dwarf with a long silver beard that nearly reaches the floor. His robes are worn and patched, yet he moves with surprising agility. Omdir’s sharp, perceptive gaze sees through any deception, and he is fiercely protective of the Vault’s secrets. Although his demeanor is severe, he is surprisingly warm to those who respect the importance of knowledge.

Role: As the head archivist, Omdir oversees all research conducted in the Vault and decides who can access restricted texts. His knowledge of ancient metallurgy and dwarven lore is unmatched.

Grilda Hearthmantle – Innkeeper of the Emberbrew Inn

Description: Grilda is a sturdy dwarf with rosy cheeks and a quick, friendly smile. Her demeanor is warm, and she’s known for her generosity and quick temper with unruly patrons. She also brews her own line of ales and meads, a talent inherited from her father.

Role: Grilda is more than an innkeeper; she’s a confidante for locals and travelers alike, often knowing more than anyone about what’s happening in the town.

Brekka Stoutwell – Miner and Gem Appraiser

Description: Brekka is a no-nonsense halfling with a knack for spotting valuable gems even in rough ores. She’s small but has a big personality, and her skills are invaluable in the mines and the Boulderglow Bazaar, where she helps appraise gems and minerals.

Role: Brekka often mediates between miners and traders, ensuring fair prices for mined gems. She’s also an outspoken advocate for workers’ rights and fair treatment, making her a respected figure among miners.

  Brackenfold Nestled in the dense Shimmerwood, Brackenfold is a small, semi-hidden village of gnomes and halflings who live in harmony with the forest. Their homes are built in hollowed-out trees and burrows, blending seamlessly into the lush greenery around them. Brackenfold’s residents are skilled herbalists and enchanters, known for their intricate potions and magical concoctions derived from the forest’s rare flora. Important Persons:

Eldra Greenwhistle: A gnome elder and renowned herbalist, Eldra is the village’s spiritual guide and healer. Her knowledge of the Shimmerwood’s herbs and rituals is unmatched, and she is said to have a bond with the forest’s spirits.

Merrick Tanspring: A young halfling ranger who serves as Brackenfold’s protector and guide, Merrick knows every hidden path and glade within the Shimmerwood. He is dedicated to preserving the forest and its creatures.

  Mossbrook Mossbrook is a small hamlet located at the edge of Gloammoor, where halflings and dwarves live in stone cottages along the moor’s border. The village has a close-knit community, with residents who have a wealth of folklore knowledge. Many of the village’s craftspeople create charms and talismans to protect against the eerie spirits rumored to wander the moors.   Important Persons:

Headman Therin Caerwyn: Therin serves as the local reeve to Mossbrook and is a wise, thoughtful leader deeply respected by Mossbrook’s residents. He spends his time studying the history of the land and learning the mysteries of the moor.

Thilda Ironfoot: A sturdy dwarven blacksmith, Thilda specializes in creating enchanted weapons and armor that provide protection from the supernatural threats of the moors.

  Fensreach A settlement situated on one of the larger islands within the Singing Fens, Fensreach is a remote community of humans and halflings who specialize in gathering rare herbs from the marshlands. The people of Fensreach live in stilted houses and have a deep respect for the fens and their spirits, often leaving offerings by the waterside to ensure safe passage through the mist.   Important Persons:

Marla Swanshadow: A human herbalist and leader of the settlement, Marla is known for her quiet wisdom and her ability to concoct powerful healing potions. She teaches the villagers the ancient rites to appease the fens’ spirits.

Fenrik Tallhill: A halfling trapper and survivalist, Fenrik knows the fens’ every channel and island. He is frequently hired as a guide for those seeking to brave the Singing Fens.

  Ashhaven Built at the base of Mount Ashvale, Ashhaven is a mining town mostly populated by dwarves, with a smattering of gnomish alchemists drawn by the mountain’s wealth. The people of Ashhaven are hardy and self-reliant, extracting valuable metals and crystals from the mountain’s depths. The settlement is fortified, as Ashhaven has had its share of strange encounters with creatures from the mountain.   Important Persons:

Elder Dolvin Rockmantle: The town’s dwarf leader and chief of mining operations, Elder Dolvin is respected for his experience and strength. He is often consulted on matters involving the mountain’s strange occurrences.

Sinna Brightspark: A gnomish alchemist, Sinna is fascinated by Mount Ashvale’s mysteries. She frequently embarks on expeditions up the mountain, seeking rare materials and ancient secrets.

  Silverbrook A riverside village along the banks of the Silvervein River, Silverbrook is primarily inhabited by humans and halflings who rely on fishing, farming, and river trade. The people of Silverbrook are aware that the river is their lifeblood and hold seasonal festivals to honor it, particularly during the spring when the river is clearest.   Important Persons:

Merek Riversong: A charismatic human bard and village leader, Merek is known for his beautiful songs and his deep reverence for the river. He organizes the annual Silvervein Festival and teaches the villagers songs that are said to bring good fortune.

Lira Moonfoot: A halfling fisher and mystic, Lira is known for her prophetic dreams, which she believes are granted by the river itself. Many villagers consult her for guidance and wisdom.

Set amidst lush farm lands and situated at the shores of Bretnach River is Bastow. As it is not the most prominent intersection of the duchy's trade routes it is not as busy as some of the other settlements like Pewold for example. It's crop yields although have provided the town with some wealth and there is allways work aplenty to be had. It's citizens are occupied either in the farming or hunting business and are simple and honest folk. The tithe to Duke Ernold is fair and the inhabitants of Bastow are able to lead a comfortable life. As that is exactly the life that Halflings cherrish, it is no wonder that Bastow has a healthy community of them. What makes Bastow slightly exceptional to most rural settlements is to have a few exceptional individuals and organizations in it's vicinity: First there are the Emerald Blades, an order of rangers and trackers and then a prominent sage, who has taken up station in a tower near Bastow to enjoy his retirement: Thomaid Honoras.   Hywood is another port city in the Duchy of Carhyrst but does not participate in commercial trade much. The ships docking here mainly are military ships transporting troops from the southern provinces to Eodèn Hold, one of the largest and the realms most northern military outposts. Nonetheless commerce has sprung up around supplying the ships with ressources and repairs and many a tavern is packed full each day with soldiers off duty, wanting to enjoy an evening off leave.   strong dwarfen population, also halflings