The Mumbles
Geography & Climate:
The Mumbles is a land of gentle hills, sun-dappled groves, and lush farmland, where the trees seem to whisper old songs and the brooks run clear and cool. It's the kind of place where the clouds drift lazily and the roads are often lined with dry stone walls and flowering hedgerows. The seasons are mild, with warm summers and crisp, storybook autumns.
Demographics:
- Brownies: The largest population group. Most have family ties to Brownie Town and often travel as adventurers, merchants, or craftsmen.
- Humans: Especially Corvids and Celts, drawn by the peace and prosperity.
- Topsider Dwarves: A few have settled as smiths, stoneworkers, or brewers.
- Elves: Rare, but a few nature-loving elves reside near the woods.
Political Status:
The Mumbles is not a kingdom, nor even a duchy. It’s a protectorate, protected jointly by:
- The Kingdom of Albion to the north.
- The Kingdom of the Black Forest to the northwest.
Each kingdom has pledged to defend The Mumbles in exchange for trade benefits and good relations. However, The Mumbles maintains local autonomy, governed by a rotating council of elders—usually prominent farmers, community leaders, or retired adventurers.
Brownie Town:
- The unofficial capital.
- Known for its tinkers' markets, adventurer taverns, and of course, the adventurer’s tax. As a lot of Brownies make a living as adventurers, they're expected to pay a share of their loot into the upkeep of Brownie Town.
- Birthplace of the famous saying: “All steps lead to Brownie Town.”
Economy:
- Agriculture: Especially known for sunberries (a fruit that glows faintly in moonlight), golden barley, and root vegetables.
- Miniature ponies (Stone Runners): Bred for dwarven mines, highly prized. Brownie ponies are prized by dwarves, paying handsomely for these sturdy underground steeds.
- Trinkets & crafts: Unique wares mixing elven elegance and dwarven resilience. Brownie trinkets are prized for their blend of artistry and function, appealing to humans, nobles, and adventurers.
- Adventurer's Market: High turnover of magical items, oddities, and “liberated” treasures from far-flung ruins.
Culture & Defence:
- The Mumbles have no standing army, but:
- Militia bands train monthly.
- Many retired adventurers settle here, and are fiercely protective.
- When truly threatened, Albion and the Black Forest send aid quickly.
- Popular festivals include:
- The Lantern Trot – A harvest-time pony parade.
- Founders' Moot – Celebrating the day the protectorate pacts were signed.
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