Barony of Cardinal Grove

**Ruler**
 **Ruling House**
 **Resident Houses**
 **Seat**
 **Settlements**
 **Beliefs**
 **Founded**

The **Barony of Cardinal Grove** is a popular location for those seeking shelter after a long day's travel. Often times, people have reportedly stated that they favor the defensive position of the barony, when the dangers near Lakeshire become too much for them. Select merchants have also managed to solidify their dealings within the region, partaking in bringing goods into the towns, as well as leaving with local exports of lumber and ore. One thing that those beyond the barony and region of Redridge have heard of, are the strikingly cardinal colored leaves of the oak trees. No matter the season, they remain red, but still adhere to the fall and winter cycle.

## Culture

The people of the Barony of Cardinal Grove have endured many a hardship, but have encountered prosperity in equal measures. Their priorities include happy families, a warm hearth, and revelry into the dead of night. Alongside the occasional trick or two.

### Religious Beliefs

Although no faith is official recognized in the barony by its people or its ruling house, local mysticism is still abundant if looked for. The trees of the Cardinal Grove bleed when cut, though it has been investigated and deduced that this is merely concentrated sap and nothing more. There is, however, one tree that nobody has been able to cut down. It resides in the center of Oakenweald, a testament to the indomitable and enduring will of the barony's people. Larger than all the rest, it boasts no strange markings or magical feats. That doesn't stop speculation though.

### Local Holidays

Each time harvest season rolls around, the four month long celebration begins known as the Season of the Cardinal. Or, as local wise men and story tellers will tell you, the celebration is known as, "The day the Wulf took flight with the Cardinal." In which the people of Wulfgard and Oakenweald decorate the road between the two settlements, celebrating with all manner of iconography relating to wolves and cardinals. As well as autumn themed feasts, paired with and endless source of revelry to which tourists are often attracted! A celebratory time for all to enjoy, and forget about the hardships endured in the seasons prior.

## Economy & Resources

The Cardinal Grove's primary exports are lumber and ore from the nearby mountain mines, garnering them a sustainable income upon which their economy and settlements are based. In addition to this, access to the waterfalls that help make Nazferiti river not only supplies a source of fish, but also tourism. After all, who wouldn't want to visit a mountain retreat near a waterfall to wash their cares away.

## History

### Founding

Cardinal Grove was founded prior to the First War, when House Wrynn elevated House Wulfhurst to nobility.

### Destruction

The barony was destroyed during the First War by the Orcish Horde, but was rebuilt after Stormwind was liberated by the Alliance of Lordaeron.

### Present Day

Cardinal Grove has since maintained its position in Redridge Mountains as a trading post, tourist retreat, and defensive retreat should Redridge ever come under extreme threat again.

## Settlements

### Oakenweald

Oakenweald is the capital of the Barony, and grants access to the Nazferiti river, as well being the primary source of the barony's lumber export.

### Wulfgard

Wulfgard is a town fixated between the incline of two mountain ranges that don't meet together. With the protection of mountains on their flanks, and Oakeweald's location at their back, they are the first line of defense and first settlement encountered in the barony. Wulfgard is responsible for the mining export of the barony.

## Houses

House Wulfhurst rules Cardinal Grove. It is known for its skill in archery and enduring spirit amid hardships. Currently lead by the acting head Lucius Wulfhurst after his return from military service.