County of Rivercrest

**Ruler**
 **Ruling House**
 **Resident Houses**
* House Thornton
 **Seat**
 **Settlements**
* Barony of Hartfyre
 **Beliefs**
 **Founded**

The **County of Rivercrest** is one of the many holdings within the The Oakhearth, a Duchy within the mountains of the Northern Province of Lordaeron. While the County's main productions are textiles, inks, and papers, a small, sustainable effort of hunting and farming allows it to mostly thrive, though it does still rely on a variety of exports with those in and outside the lands.

## Culture

The people of the County of Rivercrest are resilient and determined, unwilling to sacrifice their lands or their heritage even in spite of the Scourge, and other threats. Due to this hardy nature, the people are welcoming to any and all who would contribute to the prosperity of the County, and are quick to defend their brothers and sisters. The County promotes much community-based beliefs and celebrations, and as a result this has led to the County having a strong sense of unity, purpose, and interconnectedness. Cautious but open, these individuals do their best to aid their fellow denizens and strangers alike, though they are equally as swift to protect each other from a perceived external threat.

### Religious Beliefs

The people of Rivercrest take much inspiration from the lands of The Oakhearth, following the Old Ways (a mixture of Light and Druidic beliefs). In specific, the people of Rivercrest pay homage to the Great Tree, located deep within the Ironwood Vale. Alongside their faith in the Light, these folks have a strong connection to nature and the forests around them, able to commune with it in rituals and prayer, related to anything from guidance, blessing crops, and so forth. Generally a peaceful folk, these individuals have continued their practices from the ancient tribes of humans, to the modern day.

### Local Legends

In the past few years, as individuals have been invited to the County and it's reformation, newfound local legends have come forth. Of them all, a few stand out in particular.

**The Pale Stag**

What began as a rumor by a passing hunter quickly spread to many that find themselves adventuring into the forests for sport, meal, trade, or other activities. A being known as 'The Pale Stag' is said to roam these woods, and locals whisper that it is a guardian of the forest, meant to oversee the activities of hunting to ensure that all who do so within the forests do so out of respect and reverence, not excessive sport or boasting. The Pale Stag is rumored to have a coat that shines as bright as the moon, twin antlers rising far above any man, beast, or horse within the area. Some claim it is as large as a house, while others say the stag's height can change at will. While none have claimed to speak with it, many claim to have seen it, especially on moonless nights, and say that any who enter the forest with dark intentions are impaled upon it's antlers, and left for the wild beasts to feast upon.

To be spared the wrath of the Pale Stag, gifts of appreciation such as strips of meat, mead, and even trinkets of bone or leather are left at the base of trees, meant to show the Pale Stag that none of the creatures hunted go to waste, and all serve a purpose. In addition, bundles of berries and grain are left in wooden offering bowls for the Pale Stag to eat, should it desire such. Some hunters will instead leave feathers or tufts of fur from their hunts, a portion of the kill left behind to honor it's sacrifice and return it's connection to the forest.

**The Drowned King**

A far darker rumor, it is said that on moonless nights, when the fog grows heavy around the rivers of this County, there is a malevolent spirit that manifests. Named "The Drowned King", this specter appears to those who are upon the river or near the riverbanks. Those claiming to see him have stated that he rows a boat, and despite the boat being rotten and full of holes, it never sinks. He whistles a tune that is unknown in origin, as it seems to not be related to any song known to the locals and newfound denizens alike. While he does not answer any who call to him, should one enter the river or touch the water, it is said that ghostly hands reach up and pull the individual under, drowning them.

Legends believes that this man was once a fisherman who travelled up and down the river. One day, a group of individuals assaulted the fisherman while he was upon the riverbanks, killing him and stealing his coin. They then damaged his boat and dumped him and the boat into the river, letting it sink to the bottom. A fortnight later, the spectral man and vessel rose, seeking to drag any down with him that would bring harm to the river. Over time, the specter has confused friend for foe, and now it seems to harm any who touch the water, believing them to be no better than those who wronged him.

**The Pallid Scarecrow**

A more recent legend, a being of unknown origin has come to enter the County of Rivercrest. While it's true name is not recorded, it has come to be known as The Pallid Scarecrow. Some say it is the soul of a demon trapped within a construct, while others claim it is a serial killer with a twisted sense of humor. Others still believe it to be an undead creature, and some even believe it is a manifestation of terror itself. While none know the truth, those who harvest the fields of Rivercrest have come to name it the Pallid Scarecrow.

Nobody quite knows when it arrived, or what it wants. Said to appear at random times, the Pallid Scarecrow manifests in the center of a field, and remains there from dusk to dawn. Any who have tried to chase it off thus far have unsuccessful, with some claiming it simply vanished, and others stating it became enraged, killing any who came near it. While the appearance of it is quite random, it said that you can tell when the Pallid Scarecrow is near, as the skies, regardless of natural weather, suddenly become overcast before a torrential downpour and thunderstorm take place. The storm will last for as long as the construct is present, clearing up within minutes of it's disappearance.

**The Haunted Mother**

The oldest of legends thus far is that of the Haunted Mother. Nobody knows her true name, but it said that when the Scourge initially overran Lordaeron, the woman witnessed the brutal murder of her children at the hands of ghouls and zombies. When death came finally came for her, agony and rage twisted her spirit so violently that she was unable to move on. Returning from beyond the grave as a languishing banshee, The Haunted Mother now stalks the forests, drawn to individuals who enter her territory, and children in particular.

Bound by the sites of where her children died, the Haunted Mother is most often seen around or beneath an old, weeping willow, with a corpse still swinging from one of it's boughs, strung up and left to perish there of it's own accord. Despite the nature of trees to remain rooted, sightings of this willow are sporadic and can be anywhere in the forest. Whether it is a phantasm or cursed, none can say.

It is said that the only way to temporarily banish and appease this haunted malevolence is to leave a bouquet of flowers beneath the tree, appeasing the mother as she is reminded of her children. The appeasement is only temporarily, however, as once the flowers wither or die, she is reminded once more of the loss and suffering she has endured, the rage and agony surfacing once more to continue her haunting lamentations anew.

### Local Holidays

**Maiden's Day** - On September 13th, the County of Rivercrest celebrates the anniversary of Katherine and Eddard's wedding. The day itself is known as Maiden's Day, and holds a variety of activities. Women of all ages are invited to weave flower crowns and learn to create their own dresses. Dyes are provided in a multitude of colors, and fabrics of wool, cotton, and bast fibres are used. The dresses, once completed, are allowed to be kept and worn, or they may be donated to various orphanages and shelters for those in need.

In addition, women who may wish to do other activities can assist in preparations for food, running errands for cooking, cleaning, and the like. Young girls are often tasked to fetch ingredients from the various fields and gardens, while the older women handle anything that requires an open flame or more physical labor.

The men, meanwhile, are invited to celebrate in a few ways. Those of age are able to participate in a hunt, upon where they are given two hours to find the largest game. Whomever brings back the biggest prize is dubbed King of the Hunt, and leads the affairs later in the night. Smaller boys or those incapable of hunting remain behind to construct a large bonfire, gathering firewood, tables, chairs, and other supplies. They then prepare for the hunt's return, and spend the rest of the day dressing, carving, and preparing the meat for consumption.

Once dusk reaches the celebration grounds, torches and flames are lit in a ring, where music and celebration is had, mimicking the initial celebration of their wedding. The King of the Hunt may then present a gift made from the hunt he had secured to a woman of his choice, as a declaration of romantic interest, platonic celebration, or familial love, chosen by them in their speech. Once presented, the night ends with a communal prayer in thanks to the land and the animals that provided nourishment and celebration.

Excess food and supplies are donated throughout the County to any in need, a reminder that no matter how large or noble one might be, the smallest person is just as important.

**Mother's Rest** - On May 23rd until May 30th, the holiday known as Mother's Rest occurs, in honor of motherhood and the celebration of life. On this day, the people of Rivercrest are allowed to pick one day throughout the week as their Mother's Rest, allowing them to declare on that day they will be free of all occupational responsibilities, and allowed to remain at home and rest. It is encouraged, through a variety of scheduled activities and decorated locations, that those with families or mothers spend the day celebrating with picnics, outdoor activities, or some other cozy activity. In addition, all medical services for expecting or current mothers with children under the age of sixteen are able to be given free medical services, as are any children under the age who may be orphaned or no longer have a mother.

Last, but not least, this holiday is also a time when older individuals are encouraged to help their local communities, often by assisting families with children in household tasks from manual labor to cooking to cleaning or even babysitting, a reminder to the community that it takes a village to raise a child.

**Crone's Eve** - On December 8th, the third and final celebration of this triune comes to pass. On Crone's Eve, the people of Rivercrest set out on a pilgrimage to the Ironwood Vale. Those unable to make the pilgrimage are able to write down their blessings, hopes, fears, ambitions, dreams, and other heavy matters to be passed along by the clergy of Rivercrest. Those taking the pilgrimage are able to travel with only the necessities, and asked to dress in humble clothing, nothing of exquisite quality or expensive fabric. Upon arriving within the Ironwood Vale, three days and three nights are spent in prayer, contemplating, and reverence. This holiday is a time of reflection, worship, and exaltation of the Ironwood Vale and the tribes of eld. In addition, before leaving, each person may take home one symbol of the Vale, carved and consecrated by the clergy, to hang upon their mantles and doorsteps for the duration of winter, a reminder that the spirits and the land is always with them, an ever-present guardian and caretaker.

## Economy & Resources

The County of Rivercrest makes most of it's money off of trade and exportation. Known for it's various dyes, textiles, and paper, the County exports these goods in exchange for much of it's lumber, metals, and other supplies. Local farmers grow a variety of grains, allowing for the creation of meads and ales, as well as a few orchards maintained for apples, oranges, and pears.

In addition, beekeeping is a popular occupation, and the various flowers and crops create a variety of unique tasting honey, ciders, and more. The papers themselves are made from recycled cotton, and take quite nicely to the dyed ink used by the quills to transcribe.

Parchment, though in lesser quantity, is also produced here, as is glass, particularly for inkwells, pottery, and windows.

## History

### Founding

The county was initially founded in 4 L.C. under House Grayson.

### Destruction

The county fell in 23 L.C. due to the Scourge, with many of it's inhabitants fleeing to a variety of safe locations. Some remained in Lordaeron, while others went to Stormwind, Stromgarde, and the surrounding countrysides.

### Present Day

After three years from the initial reclamation, the County is still working in it's efforts to rebuild and reclaim the lands once lost. Due to this, some of the land is still unclaimed and in need of reclamation efforts, but enough has been established to at least begin trade and commerce with others.

## Settlements

Due to the current ongoing efforts of reformation, a full list of settlements is unable to be completely documented, and is subject to change as new information comes to light.

### Barony of Darkwyrd

A rather odd barony that encompasses a variety of towns, this specific barony is known for it's production of dark inks and textiles. Much of it's oddity is owed to the near-constant gothic nature of it's lands, though whether it is merely a geographical coincidence or a culture created by the people is not quite known.

**Gloambrooke** - Within the Barony of Darkwyrd lies the town of Gloambrooke. Serving as the capital seat of the County as well, Gloambrooke's role in the county has been vital to running the rest of the county. Many individuals within Gloambrooke gravitate towards clerical work of logistics, cartography, management, and scribing. Gloambrooke is responsible for the vast repository of knowledge of the County's people, commerce, culture, and so forth, and is considered one of if not the most important places to restore and update.

### Barony of Shellstrop

Located closer to the delta of the river that runs along the length of the County, this Barony is largely centered around the coastal regions of the county. Responsible for the large production of glass, as well as a local trade of fish, this barony also holds the town of **Grayport**, which serves as the main area for ships to dock and handle the import and export of goods for the rest of Rivercrest.

### Barony of Hartfyre

Last but not lead, the Barony of Hartfyre serves as the most recent of recovered baronies. Responsible for the largest productions of papers and bees, this barony's specialty is the production of materials required for all manners of inscription and communications. From quills to inkwells, stamps, parchment, and even courier services, alongside the local trade of honey and food-based grains, Hartfyre has become nearly synonymous with the spirit of the survivors, equally as resilient and open to growth as they are.

## Houses

House Grayson oversees the County of Rivercrest.

House Thornton is a minor house rebuilding underneath the service of House Grayson.

A consistent enemy to the County is House Advark, a rival House of Thornton that has expanded it's criminal behavior to all of the County and the regions within.

## Gallery

Credit - https://www.deviantart.com/jbrown67/art/Shanty-Town-328259314