Verindale

Verindale is a tiny hamlet in Iristoya, which revealed its existence to the Valdic Union just recently and subsequently joined them. It is located west of the grand mountain range that separates the eastern part of Xrayven from the rest of the continent. 
== History ==
=== Early history and refugees ===
Verindale was founded by an unknown family of Halflings who capitalized on the ravine east of the village to cultivate a rare variety of berries, highly prized for their exquisite flavor. For the people living there, it seemed like time was frozen and many years came and passed by without much change. However, the tranquility of the village was shattered when war engulfed the countryside, prompting an influx of many displaced families seeking refuge within its confines.
Due to this, the normally quiet village faced dire circumstances as the swelling population strained the limited space, forcing the inhabitants to devise unconventional solutions. With arable land scarce and the rocky terrain unsuitable for conventional construction, they ingeniously carved their homes into the very walls of the ravine, comprised of a blend of soil, clay, and rock.
The early days were harsh and not everyone was able to endure these times of hardship. But over a couple of years, the shared plight forged a resilient community where no Halfling went hungry—a fundamental tenet of their culture.
=== Exodus and pledge of restoration ===
Just when the village was about to settle down, peace had returned to the land, The younger generation felt the pull of their ancestral homes, leading to a gradual exodus that left Verindale a shadow of its former self. By the time Korkin returned to inherit his grandfather's tavern aand brewery, he found the village nearly completely deserted.
As one of the few younger Halflings remaining he vowed to use any means necessary to restore Verindale to a bustling village.
== Geography ==
The village sits atop steep hills, overlooking a waterfall cascading into the river below. This river meanders through a cave known as Whisper's Demise, providing a passage to the other side of the mountain range.
Framed by the mountain range on three sides, the village's western flank opens up to the tundra and, further beyond, the desert. Surrounding the village are several smaller ravines where a uncommon variety of berries known to the locals as "Crimson Lament" naturally flourishes.
== Culture ==
In typical Halfling fashion, the culture of the isolated village revolves primarily around food. Their culinary creations feature a blend of foraged delights such as nuts and forest plants, along with staples like potatoes or beets. To complete their meals, the villagers often enjoy locally hunted game, sourced from the surrounding forest.
Category:Towns
Category:Traveler's Era
Category:Valdic