Barony of Thorns

**Ruler**
 **Ruling House**
 **Resident Houses**
 **Seat**

The **Barony of Thorns** is located southeast of De Vere Manor and northeast of the main town of Halton in the easterly area of Avercroft. It is not frequently visited and the residents keep a low profile. It is heavily shrouded by forestry and the local wildlife, as well as a few rolling hills. The township of Oryn Mills has a few essential shops that consist of a butcher, general store, and a carriage house with a farrier. Anything else would require a trip to Severn Woods.

## Culture

Traditional in the sense that it is a small barony, nearly everyone travels to Halton on Sundays to attend the same Church, or travel south for their shopping, or to see a physician. Practically everyone knows everyone but unlike larger towns, everyone in Thorns desires privacy and respects it. The houses and farms are spread out enough that you would need to run or ride to your neighbour, and if anyone sees or hears anything, it is never spoken of or repeated.

While Lord and Lady Tarrenhol may be the rulers of Avercroft, Lord Jared De Vere is who the townspeople of Thorns look to, who they respect, as well as fear. They are all staunch loyalists to the De Vere name, having served the late Lord Michel De Vere, and understand the insular, almost private environment in which they've remained.

### Religious Beliefs

All residents are devout followers of the Church of the Holy Light, nearly every one of them make the weekly trip to Halton and join together in sermon and prayer, held in the small Halton Chapel.

### Local Holidays

The annual Celebration of Life picnic is usually held July 4th, located on the De Vere estate, in the Manor Gardens. During this time all residents within the county congregate at the estate to celebrate the lives lost as well as to celebrate the beginning of new lives.

The second Saturday of October is known as Family Feasting, and is a holiday celebrated by the county in the town of Halton, at the town hall. It is an evening of Feasting and Dance. It is widely known throughout the county that many families conceive around this time as celebrations carry well into the night and following morning; thus many of the children throughout the county are similar in age.

## Economy & Resources

The County really does not have much to sustain itself alone and frequently imports goods from Eastvale and Lakeridge primarily, but have a monthly caravan from Stormwind as well. Some families have small personal gardens to grow their own herbs, fruits or vegetables, but most consumables are imported to include dairy.

## History

### Founding

Averton was officially founded in 588 K.Y by Michel De Vere, who was recognized for his unwavering duty to the Brotherhood of the Horse and the Knights of Stormwind, having been elevated to nobility by House Wrynn years prior.

### Destruction

Much of the County was destroyed during the First War when the Orcs invaded Stormwind and neighbouring areas. Efforts to rebuild did not take place until after Stormwind was Liberated by the Alliance of Lordaeron.

### Present Day

The County is presently under the Stewardship of Countess Livia De Vere though it is under contention by her siblings who are otherwise indisposed in their present careers.